Connie Kruger

Connie Kruger, age 61 of Winnebago passed away Saturday August 3, 2024 at Parker Oaks in Winnebago. A funeral service will be held Friday August 9, 1PM at Berean Baptist Church in Winnebago, the family will greet guests from 12-1PM. Burial will be at St. Casimir Catholic Cemetery in Wells, MN. Online condolences can be left at www.spencerowen.com

Constance “Connie” Mae Kruger was born October 1, 1962, in Albert Lea, MN to Clayton and Corrine Kruger. She faced adversity at a young age due to a car accident that left her disabled as the result of a severe spinal injury. Despite her physical challenges, she embraced life. Having grown up on a farm in the rural Kiester area alongside her two sisters, Cindy and Christine, Connie cherished her upbringing on the farm in spite of all the hard work of a dairy farm. 

Throughout her life, Connie found solace and companionship in her beloved cats, whom she considered to be her children. Her three cherished cats were named Pepper, Wicky and Hearty and she spoke of them often in any conversation or text message. She loved going to garage sales and second-hand stores to discover the possibility of hidden treasures. 

As her physical condition failed, her cellphone became her lifeline, connecting her with loved ones and friends in the world outside her home, being known and infamous for her very long text messages. Grateful and appreciative for any assistance she received from others, she often expressed guilt for needing help, showcasing her sweet, gentle and humble nature. Connie never complained about anything. Her trust and unwavering faith in the Lord gave her the inner strength and perseverance to press forward into each new day as she thanked the Lord for all the blessings He had given her.

After the death of her father in 2020, Connie moved to Winnebago, MN to her very own little house, which she called her “cottage”. In those final four years of her life, Connie found unwavering and dedicated support and caregiving from her cousin, Julie Hoffman, whom she repeatedly referred to as her “Sweet Cousin Julie”. With Connie’s declining physical health and abilities, a faithful friend, Ann Bahr, joined in assisting in Connie’s care. 

Connie never failed to show appreciation to all the faithful ones who helped and assisted her with many tasks and duties that she was unable to accomplish on her own such as business matters, and farm and home maintenance. Those faithful ones were Donald and Julie Hoffman, David and Sara Obermeyer, Andy and Ann Bahr, Samantha Bahr, Jack Lester and Doug Brietbarth.

Left to cherish her memory are her sisters, Cindy (Aaron) Raymond, Finger, TN, Christine Helgeland, Bethel Springs, TN, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and neighbors.

Connie is preceded in death by her parents, Clayton and Corrine Kruger.