KRUER William J. Kruer age 82 passed away November 13 2011. Beloved husband of Nancy; loving father of Marc (Beth) Kruer Fritz (Mari) Kruer Julie Lavington Karen (William) Young dear grandfather to George Anna Martina Emily and Josef Kruer Matthew (Alessandra), Ben John and Laura Kruer Lindsay and Wilder Lavington and Jullian Claudia and Owen Young. Born and raised in Grand Rapids Bill was preceded in death by his brothers George Jack and Bob Kruer; sisters Anne Gezon and Mary Racette. He was a member of St. Thomas Church. Bill attended Ottawa Hills High School and graduated from MAC (MSU) (class of 52). After graduation from college Bill completed OCS and served for 4 years in the submarine service of the U.S. Navy. In 1955 he married Nancy Brandstatter and came back to Grand Rapids to join the family business. He eventually became President of Lincoln Brick Company and President of the National Association of Brick Distributors. Bill was an avid sailor in the summer in Michigan and enjoyed life on Singer Island in the winter. Visitation will be held November 16 at the OBrien-Gerst Funeral Home 3980 Cascade Rd. SE from 5-8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered November 17 at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas the Apostle Church 1449 Wilcox Park Dr. SE Rev. James A. Chelich presiding. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Psychiatric Medical Unit c/o Saint Marys Doren Foundation 200 Jefferson Ave. SE Grand Rapids MI 49503.
