Kenneth L. Kruger, 87, of Silver Bay died peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth with his family by his side. He was born September 8, 1937 to Ben and Rena (Wiley) Kruger in Dodge County, MN. He graduated from Hayfield High School and served in the U.S. Army from 1962-1964 plus four years in the Army Reserves. He married Bonnie June Trader on January 17, 1959 in Duluth, MN. He worked at Reserve Mining Company in Silver Bay for 27+ years and as an independent paint contractor for many years. He, along with Bonnie, owned and operated the Silver Bay Shopper and K & B Printing for 13 years. They made Silver Bay their home and raised their two children, Kris Kruger and Beth (Kruger) Shamhart.
He enjoyed being a member and officer with the Knights of Columbus, Finland Recreation Committee, Finland Snowmobile Club, Golden Agers and an active member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Silver Bay. He also enjoyed camping with his family and friends, and wintering in Pharr, Texas for 17 years at Paradise Resort Estates.
Preceding him in death were his parents, four siblings, a nephew, two nieces and a former daughter-in-law Lisa (Vopat) Kruger.
Ken is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Bonnie; son Kris Kruger and daughter Beth (Mike) Shamhart. Granddaughters Katie Vopat, Lauren Shamhart, Kelli Shamhart, Emilee (Cory) Bersinger, Hannah Kruger, Morgan (Shaun) Baker, Natalie (Cole) Dunn and seven great grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, February 3, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Silver Bay followed by a luncheon. Burial was held at Sawtooth Mountain Cemetery. To share a memory or leave an online condolence visit www.cavallinfuneralhome.com.
