We lost our beloved father, Robert E. Kruger, 90, of Hutchinson. He went to be with family and friends in heaven on Jan. 4, 2011, at Wesley Towers Thorne Care Center, Hutchinson.

He was born Oct. 27, 1920, in Abilene, Kan., to Harry Jacob and Nina Marceline Broughton Kruger.

He was a resident of Hutchinson since 1946. He was a graduate of Abilene High School in Abilene. He was a salesman/buyer for Meschke's Clothing for 43 years before retiring in 1983. He was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church. He was in the U.S. Army infantry, landing on Omaha Beach, Normandy, France, and was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart.

On Dec. 14, 1940, he married Maxine Milham in Abilene, Kan. She died July 30, 2003.

Other survivors include: daughters, Carole Sperling and husband Dennis of Salina, Kan., and Kay Bott of Hutchinson; brother, Larry Young and wife Kathy of Hutchinson; grandsons, Steve Sperling and wife Melissa and Luke Bott and wife Laura; and great-grandchildren, Kaitlynn, Haley, Jenna and Oteka. He was preceded in death by son-in-law Gary Bott.

Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, at Fairlawn Burial Park Mausoleum, Hutchinson, with Pastor Tim Carey officiating.

Friends may sign the book from 1 to 9 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson.

Military graveside rites conducted by Fort Riley Honor Guard. Memorials may be sent to Emanuel Lutheran Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, Hutchinson.

Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a condolence for the family.