Harry Kruse

Harry F. Kruse, 89, of Spring Township, passed away on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at his home.  He was a brilliant, funny, hard-working, honest, loving, and sweet man who treasured being the father of three and grandfather of four.  He will be sorely missed.

Harry was the devoted husband of Eleanor M. (Mehrtens) Kruse, with whom he shared almost 65 years of marriage.

Born March 26, 1932 in New York City, he was the only child of German immigrants, Harold and Charlotte (Atenhan) Kruse, who traveled to America to make a better life for themselves and their future offspring.

Harry grew up in The Bronx and was a graduate of The High School of Commerce and The City College of New York (BS in Chemistry), and he took numerous Master’s level classes, working towards a second degree in this field, as well as considering the pursuit of a Master’s Degree in Education.

After graduation, he entered the Army and spent his military service time during the Korean War.

Returning to the states in 1956, Harry continued to pursue employment and additional educational opportunities in the field of chemistry. Among other positions, he worked as the manager of a research and development group and as a quality assurance/quality control supervisor. He was also involved with several professional organizations in his field.  His work took him and his growing family to New Jersey, Indiana, and Pennsylvania.

For many years, he was an active member of the Shillington Lions Club and ran their Shillington Flea Market for countless summers.  He enjoyed socializing with other Lions, attending meetings, and being part of their special events.

Harry volunteered in his neighborhood’s “Crime Watch” program, helping keep his family – and community – safe.

He was also a long-time member of the Wyomissing Church of the Brethren and always looked forward to attending their religious services and social functions.

Harry loved spending time with his wife, three girls and four grandchildren, making sure to attend as many musical performances, plays, art shows, sporting events, and graduations as possible, usually with a camera in hand.  He also enjoyed watching TV, believing that any show that made it on air was worth watching.  He was an avid golfer, respectable bowler, and accomplished ping pong player.  He was also a rescuer, adopter, and lover of dogs, often commenting that if he had enough money he would purchase a big farm with many acres of land so that homeless and unwanted dogs could run free for the rest of their lives.  Other highlights included summer family vacations at Seaside Heights and spending the July 4th and Thanksgiving holidays relaxing at the Shawnee Resort in the Poconos.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are his three daughters:  Lois M. (Kruse), wife of Donald H. Theisinger of Wyomissing; Laura C. Kruse of Mt. Penn, fiancée of James K. Miller; and Karen K. (Kruse), wife of John A. Del Vecchio of Mohnton; his four grandchildren; Andrew D. Theisinger, Kelly E. Theisinger, Justin K. Del Vecchio, and Kayla R. Del Vecchio; and his great-daughter-in-law, Claire M. (Gauger), wife of Andrew.

A celebration of life/memorial service will be held by his family at a later time and date.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shillington Lions Club and/or the Wyomissing Church of the Brethren.

Fond memories and condolences may be made online at www.whelanschwartz.com/listings.