Richard Lee Kruger, age 59, entered into eternal rest on March 26, 2024, in Salt Lake, Utah. Born on March 6, 1965, in Omaha, Nebraska, he was the treasured son of the late Sharon and Darwin Kruger and a steadfast pillar of the community.
Educated at LaVista Jr. High and Papillion LaVista High School, Rick demonstrated an early inclination towards tenacity and camaraderie—a thread that wove through his entire life. Rick trained horses in Helena when he first moved to Montana. Then started his profession as a Construction Foreman at Svejkovsky Construction, upon moving to Butte and there it spanned an impressive 23 years, underscoring his dedication and skill. Rick formed a deep bond with his boss, Dave Svejkovsky and Chris Svejkovsky, who admired Rick, as much as Rick looked up to Dave. Rick also ran a side business, RK Drywall that sponsored his team in softball along with a few other businesses in Butte.
Aside from his professional pursuits, Rick’s heart belonged to the softball fields, where he both captivated and inspired his teammates and friends. A man of robust spirit and vigor, he was respected for his competitive nature and genuine love for the sport.
Rick is survived by his beloved children, , Teigan Kruger of Butte, and Reece Wandler of Butte and Shawn (Kristy) Kruger of Nebraska. Grandchildren, Courtney, Ethan, Jaime, Isabella and Alexander Kruger also from Nebraska He also leaves behind his loving sisters, Amy Gladden Rhonda Leggitt, and Terri Leggitt of Nebraska. His memory will be fondly cherished by his nephews, nieces, cousins, lifelong friends Terry (Rhonda) Hughes of Nebraska and Mike (Suzanne) Flink and Greg (Jamie) Garwood of Butte, as well as his extended family within the softball community.
In addition to his parents, Rick was preceded in death by his sisters, Kelly Martinez and Tracy Frasure, as well as his grandparents and aunts and uncles.
The family invites you to join them in commemorating Rick’s life on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 1 pm at the Butte Depot. Guests are encouraged to wear their softball jerseys to honor Rick’s passion for the game. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests that donations be directed to the gofundme account set up for Rick’s daughter, Teigan. Mike & Suzanne Flink can provide details regarding this charitable act.
The final care and arrangements for Rick are under the guidance of Axelson Funeral Home, Butte, MT. In remembering Rick, we recall a man of friendly demeanor, a protective father, and a valued confidant who could light up a room with his engaging presence. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Rick.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Rick and his family.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m.
Saturday April 20, 2024
Butte Depot
818 S Arizona Avenue
Butte, MT 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m.
Saturday April 20, 2024
Butte Depot
818 S Arizona Avenue
Butte, MT 59701
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Teri Kelly says
Rick was such a nice guy! He did a lot of work on my house, was always happy, helpful and did a great job. So easy to work with! Always enjoyed running into him around town.
Laurie Peterson says
Played softball with and against Rick on the field. Great competitor all around great guy. A KICK IN THE ass MOST OF THE TIME. He will be greatly missed on and off the field.