Fred Bernard Kruse Jr, of Alexander, ascended into heaven on November 3, 2025.  He was born at home in Alexander, Arkansas on January 28, 1942. Living a full life of 83 years.  He was born to Fred B Kruse Sr. and Maurice Dees Kruse.  He lived in the Bryant area his entire life.  He graduated from Bryant High School on May 23, 1961.  He worked at the Reynolds Metals Company in Bauxite for 20 years as a boiler operator/supervisor and then worked for the NCTR at the Pine Bluff Arsenal for the NVT Company as maintenance supervisor and boiler operator.  He worked at home on his farm taking care of cattle, chickens, and rabbits for most of his adult life. He was a humble and hardworking man.

He was an avid deer hunter and was a member of the Oliver Deer Camp in Prescott, Arkansas.  He loved to take his daughters and grandchildren hunting when they were young and always had a snack and hot chocolate for them on the deer stand.  He often hunted with his son-in-law, Jarrod Sullivan, and would always enjoy sitting by the fire telling the tall tales of the hunt.

He was a deacon at First Baptist Church in Bryant for more than 50 years.  He sang in the choir making a "joyful noise".  He attended Sunday School and raised his children to love the Lord.  He was a true example of a Christian father.

He also loved spending summers on the lake with his family including fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and just enjoying everything that the lake had to offer him and his family.  Some of the fondest memories were spent at the lake with family.

He was married to his loving wife, Carolyn Ward Kruse, for 61 years.  They had 2 daughters, 3 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. He enjoyed giving grandchildren rides on the tractors, lawn mower, and 4 wheelers.  His grandchildren and great grandchildren were his pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents Fred Sr and Maurice Kruse.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Kruse.  He was also survived by Tina Copeland (William), Tamara Sullivan (Jarrod), and his brother, John Kruse.  He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Patrick Copeland, Karissa Howard (Michael Baker), Devin Howard (Maci) and his great grandchildren Kylee Copeland, Karson Howard, Lorali Howard, and Kruse Baker.

There will be a visitation at First Baptist Church in Bryant on HWY 5 North on Monday, November 10 at 10:00 AM and the funeral will be held directly after at 11:00 AM.  There will be a graveside service at Pinecrest Cemetery directly after.

In lieu of sending flowers donations can be made to Donate | Dementia Society of America®.