David "Dave" W. Kruse, age 66, passed away on October 11, 2026, at his home in Churubusco, IN. He was born in Fort Wayne to Wayne Kruse, who survives, and the late Babs Kruse.

Despite appearances, Dave was patient. He tolerated his trees being mowed over in the yard. He tolerated teenagers wrecking the cars he gave them. He tolerated sons who could never quite remember that the studs of a house are 16” on-center. He lovingly indulged the passions of his children and grandchildren, and he generously shared his own. The happiness and excitement that his own interests- Northern Michigan, building, shooting guns, or, most of all, the Green Bay Packers- was infectious, and he gave his family memories and skills that they will carry forever. He also never missed a game, a concert, or a performance if his children or grandchildren were involved.

Dave built custom homes all over Northeast Indiana, working as a general contractor for his company, Empire Homes, Inc. He continued building and improving homes until his death, and he passed on a knowledge and appreciation of his craft to his children and grandchildren.
Dave was a good man. He loved his family, and his family loves him.

Dave is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jennifer Kruse; children, Zack (Brenna) Kruse, Brittany (Chris) Kruse-Andrews, and Alex Kruse; five grandchildren, Aleesa, Delaney, Ethan, Nathaniel, and Maggie; and brother, Dan Kruse.

He was also preceded in death by his sister, Diane Burrell.

Service is 12:00 pm, Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton St., with calling one hour prior. Calling also 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Friday, October 16, 2026 at the funeral home. Burial at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the Green Bay Packers Foundation. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com