- Born on: June 23, 1948
- Departed on: May 8, 2026
- Resided in: Waterloo, IA
Michael John Kruse
Michael John Kruse, age 77 of Waterloo, Iowa, crossed his final finish line on Friday May, 8 2026.
A lifelong Ford Man, Mike found his greatest joy in the roar of the Ford FE V8 and the vast amount of friends he made in the car community. He was an absolute master of his craft, known for his ability to build, work on, and perfect anything with a Ford badge. His shop was his happy place and his cars and the knowledge he shared with so many were a testament to the absolute kick-ass man he was.
While he was happy at the track or under a hood, his heart always belonged to his family. He always showed his love through the things he built and the time he shared with those he held dear. Mike was always willing to help out his family and friends and cherished the times when he got to share his wisdom and teach others
He is survived by his sister Sandra, his 3 super-rad children Christopher, Jennifer [grandchildren Daniel and Samuel], and Joshua [grandchildren Bennet, Kaya and Chloe].He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Leona Kruse and his great friend Dick Mattix
Family and friends are invited to The Last Lap at The Kruser Ranch to celebrate his life and legacy on May 30th from 11am until who knows when at The Kruser Ranch. We encourage you to bring your favorite ride and your best stories. Out of respect for Mike, Chevy’s will have to park in the road.
A lifelong Ford Man, Mike found his greatest joy in the roar of the Ford FE V8 and the vast amount of friends he made in the car community. He was an absolute master of his craft, known for his ability to build, work on, and perfect anything with a Ford badge. His shop was his happy place and his cars and the knowledge he shared with so many were a testament to the absolute kick-ass man he was.
While he was happy at the track or under a hood, his heart always belonged to his family. He always showed his love through the things he built and the time he shared with those he held dear. Mike was always willing to help out his family and friends and cherished the times when he got to share his wisdom and teach others
He is survived by his sister Sandra, his 3 super-rad children Christopher, Jennifer [grandchildren Daniel and Samuel], and Joshua [grandchildren Bennet, Kaya and Chloe].He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Leona Kruse and his great friend Dick Mattix
Family and friends are invited to The Last Lap at The Kruser Ranch to celebrate his life and legacy on May 30th from 11am until who knows when at The Kruser Ranch. We encourage you to bring your favorite ride and your best stories. Out of respect for Mike, Chevy’s will have to park in the road.
