Kruger, Richard

Richard P. Kruger

July 23, 1927 – November 29, 2020

With heavy hearts we share the passing of Richard P. Kruger. Richard passed away peacefully on the evening November 29th, 2020 at Credit Valley Hospital at the age of 93. He remained incredibly strong, as we always knew him, throughout his battle with lymphatic cancer in his final months. He will be deeply missed by those he leaves behind, but we know he has now found peace.

Richard was predeceased by his late wife, Vera Kruger, and his brothers George and Wally. He is survived by his brother, Alex, his daughter, Lorraine, his stepdaughters, Suzanne and Jennifer and granddaughters, Alana, Megan, Rachel, Jessica and Rhiannon.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Richard achieved incredible accomplishments throughout his lifetime, beginning all the way back to the age of 6 when he ran his first paper route. Richard’s glass and electronics manufacturing took him all around the world and caught the attention and partnerships of many prominent leaders, organizations, and businessmen. From contracts with the Toronto Police Department, partnerships with large telecommunications companies in Mexico, and personal visits from David Rockefeller, Richard was respected and revered in his industry.

In his personal time, Richard loved to swim, read and was a proud member of the Mississaugua Golf & Country Club since 1953. Most of his summers were spent in Muskoka on Cove Island, a family treasure from 1952– 2000 which he shared with all his friends and family.

There is nothing he loved more and no one he would rather spend time with than “his girls”. He believed that family and friends were the most important things in life and encouraged his girls to appreciate history and family heritage. Having come from a bloodline of Russian royalty and German Mennonites, his family history was rich with stories that he would share with his girls every chance he had. Richard took his daughter and granddaughters across the globe throughout his lifetime to enrich their lives and share the joy of culture, art and history. We are forever grateful for the shared experiences, lessons, and memories he gave to us.

Due to covid, a small family gathering will take place Thursday, December 3rd at St. Johns Dixie Cemetery. A celebration of life with friends and family will take place when we are all able to be together again.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Artworks for Cancer here https://artworksforcancer.com/ways-to-donate/ .

The family encourages friends and family to post condolences, stories or memories below.

11 replies
  1. Jeanette Collinson
    Jeanette Collinson says:

    I apologize for the late entry of condolences. Unfortunately, I had lost contact and connection since my grandfather, Wally, passed away. My grandfather, Waldemar Krueger, and brother to Richard – “Brother Richard,” would tell me stories as well about many of their adventures E.g., glass factory in Mexico. I remember vividly talking with Uncle Richard after my grandfather passed and how he immediately lifted a weight off of my shoulders. I remember opening my door to him and being set back by his eyes and how he resembled my own grandfather. He was kind and patient with my two children at the time (a new born and a toddler) and after my grandfathers funeral, I enjoyed talking about world travels with him. I regret not keeping in contact and having my own kids hear the amazing stories from that generation. May you find peace in your memories.

    Reply
  2. Birgit Resch
    Birgit Resch says:

    Martin told me that your father died. So I want leeve here my deepest condolence to you and your girls. He was an admirable men.

    Reply
  3. Darlene Howell-Neville
    Darlene Howell-Neville says:

    My deepest condolences to you and your girls.
    My heart is so sad to hear the news of your father’s passing. It has been years since we saw each other, but I feel we would have picked up right where we left off. May he rest knowing how much he enriched your lives.

    Reply
  4. Cheryl Barker
    Cheryl Barker says:

    Lorraine , I am very sorry to hear of your dads passing. I saw him just last year in Mississauga and he was as I always remembered him while living on Credit Heights Drive. He spoke fondly of you and your girls- a very proud father and grandfather. I am sure you will miss him dearly.

    Reply
  5. Sharon Hospodar Major
    Sharon Hospodar Major says:

    Heartfelt condolences sent your way. Mr Kruger was truly a distinguished gentleman. His smile and his laughter enlightened everyone. Both he and your mother were very good to me growing up on the Heights. Treasure every memory and remember every piece of advice and wisdom he shared. Keeping you all in my prayers during this difficult time.

    Reply
  6. Jennifer & Walter Hinton
    Jennifer & Walter Hinton says:

    We are very sorry for the loss of this wonderful man. We were privaledged to only get to know him in the last 8 years but it felt like we knew him for so many. He will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Rest in peace RPK ????

    Reply
    • Lorraine
      Lorraine says:

      Thank you for your kind words Jen. You were his trusted aide, friend and like a daughter to him
      He really was one of a kind. Thank you for all you did for him and our family.

      Reply
  7. Diane Hope
    Diane Hope says:

    I am saddened to learn of Mr. Kruger’s passing. I remember him as a dignified gentleman and a very proud father of Lorraine. Wishing Lorraine and her family much love and comfort at this very sad time.

    Reply
    • Lorraine
      Lorraine says:

      Thank you so much Diane. Although heartbroken, my girls and I have taken great comfort in sharing stories with each other these past few days. He really was a huge figure in all our lives. We miss him but we’re grateful for having him so long xo

      Reply
  8. Lloyd Walker
    Lloyd Walker says:

    I lived a couple doors down on Credit Heights Dr. and grew up with all my neighbour friends. My deepest sympathy to Lorraine and family. Stay strong. These notices are a strong reminder of our early days and bring back fond memories.

    Reply
    • Lorraine
      Lorraine says:

      Thank you Lloyd. Credit Heights was the best. My dad loved his home there.
      It’s a very sad time but we are so grateful for our time with him.

      Reply

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