Gary William Kruger, born on July 25, 1939, in Red Wing, Minn., passed away on Oct. 8, 2026, at the age of 87. Raised in Hager City, Wis., he attended Wilson Country School through the eighth grade and graduated from Ellsworth High School with the class of 1957. On July 1, 1960, he married Carole Hilden at Bethel Covenant Church, and together they built a life filled with love and devotion.
Gary dedicated his career to sales, working in various industries, including bread distribution, car sales, insurance, real estate, and auction services. He and Carole lived in Red Wing for nine years before returning to River Falls, where they made their home on Wasson Lane. An active member of his community, Gary contributed his time to the River Falls Lions Club, the River Falls Kiwanis Club, and served on the River Falls Fire Department. He was also deeply involved with the First Covenant Church and the Ouisconsin Fish and Game Club, where he cherished time spent at their cabins in Canada, a love he passed on to his family.
Gary was known for his generosity, hard work, and ability to see the best in people. He was a faithful man of God and upheld a strong sense of integrity throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Starr and Grace (Enberg) Kruger; his brothers, Don and Dick Kruger; and his son-in-law, Kelly Jackson.
He is survived by his beloved wife Carole; his children, Kent (Char) Kruger and Kari Jackson; grandchildren Brittani (Adam) Price, Cody Kruger, Brandon Boyd, and Austin Boyd; great-grandchildren Clyde, Lorraine, Irene, and Edith Price; sisters-in-law Donna Kruger and Renee Kruger; along with numerous other relatives and friends. Gary’s warmth and spirit will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Funeral Service will be at noon Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 at the First Covenant Church, 1374 N. Main St. River Falls. Visitation will also be on Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the church. Family interment will be in the Bethel Church Cemetery in Ellsworth, Wis. after lunch. Gary would be most honored by memorials to his church or your favorite charity helping people in lieu of flowers. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
