Rodney Ray Kruse

Rodney Ray Kruse, lovingly known as “Hot Rod,” passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, in Longwood, Florida, at the age of 77, surrounded by his beloved family after a courageous battle with leukemia and brain cancer.

Rod was born on September 19, 1947, in Primghar, Iowa. He proudly served in the United States Air Force and was a Vietnam Veteran. After his military service, Rod built a successful career in sales, first in the automotive industry and later in industrial sales. He was well known for his strong work ethic, genuine personality, and ability to make lasting connections with customers and coworkers alike. After retiring, Rod happily spent his days working part-time at the neighborhood golf course, where he enjoyed the fresh air, made new friends, and shared plenty of laughs with both colleagues and members.

A devoted husband, father, and grandpa, Rod was deeply rooted in faith, family, and friendship. He was a lifelong Christian and a faithful member of First Baptist Sweetwater since 1986, where he also served as a deacon for many years. Rod loved pouring into the lives of others, especially children. He served joyfully in the children’s choir ministry, always ready with a smile and a pocket full of peppermint candies—a tradition the kids came to love and expect from “Mr. Rod.”

His dedication to mentoring extended beyond the church. When his son, Weston, joined Cub Scouts, Rod became a Boy Scout leader and remained actively involved throughout Weston’s journey to becoming an Eagle Scout. Even after his son’s scouting years ended, Rod continued to serve as Boy Scout Troop Committee Chairman, investing in countless young lives and encouraging them to grow into responsible, service-minded adults.

Rod loved the simple joys of life—golfing, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. He was a content and joyful man who never needed much to be happy. He always had a smile on his face and a warm spirit that made everyone feel welcome. He was truly loved by all who knew him.

Rod is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn; his children: Kara (Stephen) Reed, Erin (Anthony) Avvento, and Weston Kruse; and his five treasured grandchildren: Austin, Haley, Harper, Camden, and Audrey; his sister, Judy (Jim) Ducommun; and his sisters-in-law, Joanne Kruse and Patricia Kruse; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Velma Kruse; and his two brothers, Larry Kruse and Richard Kruse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a cancer charity that is special to you.

Rodney Ray Kruse will be forever missed and forever in our hearts. He was the best husband, father, grandpa, and friend we could have ever asked for—steady, selfless, and full of love. He would do anything and everything for those he loved, often putting his own needs aside to make sure his family was cared for and supported. He never missed a single game, recital, or graduation—he was always there, cheering us on with pride and joy. We take comfort in knowing he’s now watching over us from heaven above, smiling that same warm smile, and still cheering us on until we meet again.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6