Dick Kruse

Dick Kruse, age 92 of Little Rock, Iowa died Friday, December 5, 2025 at Sanford Hospital in Luverne, Minnesota.

A memorial service will take place at 10:00 AM, Friday, December 12, 2025 at Salem Reformed Church in Little Rock, with Pastor Daniel Stanley, officiating.

A private graveside service with military honors will take place prior to the service at Pleasantview Cemetery in Little Rock.

Visitiation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Thursday, December 11th at Salem Reformed Church in Little Rock.

Dick Helmer Kruse was born on May 13, 1933, in Rock Rapids, Iowa, to Helmer and Emma (Buss) Kruse. Raised in Little Rock, he graduated from Little Rock High School in 1951 and carried a lifelong pride for the town that shaped him. Little Rock wasn’t just his hometown—it was the heart of who he was.

In 1954 Dick proudly entered the United States Army, serving with honor until 1956. Stationed at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, he approached every duty—whether working in the kitchen or delivering mail across the base—with the same integrity and steadiness that defined his life. His service was a point of lifelong pride, and he remained forever grateful for the opportunity to serve his country.

While at Fort Hood, Dick married the love of his life, Evelyn Russman, on March 20, 1956. After his discharge, the couple returned to Little Rock to build the life Dick often described as his “best life”—their life on the farm. Farming was more than a livelihood to Dick; it was his calling, his joy, and the foundation on which he and Evelyn raised their family. Together they grain farmed, tended countless animals, and especially relished their favorite chore: milking cows. Dick believed that the farm taught all the best lessons—hard work, humility, teamwork, and gratitude for God’s daily gifts.

The Kruse farm became a place where memories were made, where neighbors were welcomed, and where many local kids spent their summers baling hay, walking beans, and sharing meals around the table. No one ever left the farm hungry, and no one ever left without laughter.

Even after Dick and Evelyn moved into town in 1997, his heart never left the farm. He remained deeply involved, always ready to help his son and never missing a chance to be part of the work he loved.

Dick’s devotion to Little Rock was unmatched. A proud member of Salem Reformed Church, he served on numerous committees and found strength in his faith community. He was also active in the Town and Country Club and the American Legion, cherishing the camaraderie and values of service. And every August, Dick beamed with joy during the Little Rock Corn Show—a celebration he believed should be declared a national holiday. His love for his small hometown was constant, deep, and fiercely loyal.

Above all else, Dick’s greatest pride and purpose came from his family. He rarely missed a ballgame, concert, or school event, and as time changed, he embraced technology so he and Evelyn could stream every activity and stay connected. He treasured one-on-one visits with each grandchild, asking thoughtful questions, listening with genuine interest, and lighting up with pride at their stories. His familiar farewell—“Come again, be careful, and love you”—became a treasured family blessing.

When Dick moved to Parkview Manor in Ellsworth on September 6, 2025, time with family became even more precious, each visit a reminder of the love he poured into his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren throughout his life.

Dick is survived by his four children: Rhoda (Paul) Hansmann of Boyden, IA; Dan (Deb) Kruse of Rock Rapids, IA; Dana (Audrey) Kruse of Little Rock, IA; and Rhona (Dan) Snyder of Rock Rapids, IA. He is also survived by twelve grandchildren—Mallorie (Scott) Egbers, Jennifer (Josh) Davies, Jamie (Jordan) Mouw, Scott (Courtney) Hansmann, Geoff (Jessica) Kruse, Josh (Beth) Kruse, Justina Kruse, Tayler (Andrew) Metzger, Alex (Heidi) Kruse, Cole (Kezia) Snyder, Claire (Newt) Johnson, and Carly (Garrett) Sayler—and 25 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Betty Pope and Jean O’Brien; sisters-in-law Linda Kruse, Twila Voss, and Gloria Russman; brother-in-law Steve Russman; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn, his parents, Helmer and Emma Kruse; his brother, Dale Kruse; and brothers-in-law Ron Pope, Dennis O’Brien, Willis Voss, and Emerson Russman.

Blessed be his memory—one built on service, stewardship, community, and immeasurable love for his family.