Carol Gertrude Kruse

Carol Gertrude Kruse (nee Grotewiel), of O Fallon, MO, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the age of 94. Beloved wife of the late Elroy J. Kruse; cherished daughter of the late Ernest and Barbara Grotewiel; devoted mother of Donald J. (Susan) Kruse and James E. (Carolyn) Kruse; dear sister of Vera (Manny) Metzler; mother-in-law of Kathy Kruse, loved by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Carol is preceded in death by her son, Daniel G. Kruse, her brother Chester (Delores) Grotewiel, her brother-in-law, Glennon (Teresa) Kruse, her sister-in-law, Edith (Greg) Menne, and her infant daughter.

Carol was married to Elroy on May 8, 1954. Together, they enjoyed 42 wonderful years before Elroy’s passing in 1996. Carol was a devoted member of the St. Paul Ladies Sodality and a longtime, passionate quilter who found great joy in stitching alongside the ladies in her community. She cherished time spent fishing with her husband, tending to her garden, and raising her three beloved sons, who were the pride of her life. Warm, hardworking, and deeply caring, Carol touched many lives through her kindness and quiet dedication. She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be made in Carol's name to Masses to St. Paul Catholic Church.