Theodore L. "Ted" Kruse, age 84, of Washington, Iowa, was called to his heavenly home on Monday, February 24, 2014, at the University of Iowa Hospitals after a gallant battle against bone marrow cancer.

In accordance with Ted's wishes, his body has been cremated and there will be no visitation or memorial service. The Jones & Eden Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials have been established for the Immanuel Lutheran Church Building Fund or the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa. Online condolences may be sent for Ted's family through the web at www.jonesfh.com

Ted was born November 13, 1929, in Fairmont, Minnesota, the son of Henry W. and Freda D. (Gieske) Kruse. He attended school in Fairmont, Minnesota, and graduated from Fairmont High School. Ted was united in marriage to Violet A. "Vi" Ubbens on October 14, 1950, in Northrop, Minnesota. Ted served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

Ted worked in the building materials industry all of his adult life. He worked in sales and later worked at Nagle Lumber in Iowa City for twenty years until his retirement in 1995. Ted was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Washington, Iowa, where he served on the Church Council, taught Sunday School and worked on various committees over the years. He was a member of the American Legion. Ted loved to read, enjoyed working with wood and watching football, especially the Green Bay Packers. He also treasured the vacations he and Vi spent in Florida every summer and trips to Branson, Missouri. Ted's greatest joy was spending time with Vi, taking care of their home and yard, second only to his love for God and family.

He is survived by his wife, Vi Kruse of Washington, Iowa; daughter, Michelle Kruse of Woodbury, Minnesota; daughter, Kathy Thorson and husband Clark of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and an infant sister.