Obituary of Donna Jean Kruse

Donna Jean Kruse, age 78 of Dundee, Michigan passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, May 2, 2024.  She was born in Royal Oak, Michigan on July 30, 1945, the daughter of the late George Horkey and Henriette “Etta” (Diesing) Horkey.  After graduating from Dundee High School in 1963 she went on to the Prestigious David Presley School of Cosmetology.  On April 24, 1965, she married her high school sweetheart Herman W. Kruse.  Donna & Herman were blessed to have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary, the week prior to her passing.

Donna loved working on the family farm in her younger years, spending time with loved ones, and being outside with nature.  She worked in various salons before opening a salon in her home.  She cherished the time spent with her beloved customers.  With all her hard work she finally decided to retire in 2019 after more than 50 years.

Donna is survived by her loving husband: Herman W. Kruse; three children:  Karla (Joseph) Rodziewicz, Ken (Amber) Kruse, Kathy (Jeff) Spaulding; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and four siblings: Marieta (JD) Walden, George (Sharon) Horkey, Carl (Cathy) Horkey, and Josephine (Carl) Anderson.

A celebration of her life will take place at a later date.  Her care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131 (734) 529-3156.  Cremation has taken place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan, a division of Merkle Enterprises, Inc.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations are suggested to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.