Gary Wayne Kruse, 76, of Springfield, MO and formerly of Ladora, IA died on Saturday, December, 12, 2020. A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Ohio Cemetery, south of Ladora. Memorial contributions may be designated to the American Legion, mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 485, Victor, IA 52347. Memories and condolences may be shared with Gary's family online at www.smithfh.com. Gary was born the son of Leonard Samuel and Ruth Naomi Kruse on February 1, 1944 in Iowa City. He graduated from Iowa Valley High School with the class of 1962. Following high school Gary served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Gary was united in marriage to D. Marie McGuire on November 11, 1966, at the Ladora United Methodist Church. To this union was born their son David in 1973. The couple resided in Marengo prior to moving to Ladora. Gary worked for Amana refrigeration. Following his retirement, Gary moved to Springfield, MO to be closer to his son. Service was a focal point of Gary's life, from serving his country to his community and God. He served as a lay speaker for the Ladora United Methodist Church, a member of the Ladora American Legion, and the Ladora Volunteer Fire Department. His enjoyments included reading military fiction and sports. He was a loyal fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the St. Louis Cardinals. Gary is survived by his son David Kruse of Springfield, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, D. Marie.