Regretfully I just learned of Coach Kruse's passing today. During my student days at M.B. Smiley High, he was my world history teacher. He had the ability to inspire interest in what many would consider a dull subject. Till this day, I have a love of history thanks to the excitement, fused with  humor, that he displayed in our class. May he rest in peace, & may his dear wife be sustained by many pleasant memories. 

Mary and family,
I was saddened to hear about Sam. While I didn’t know him very well, my brother, Carl Pope, had the highest regard for Sam. He was a treasured friend and will be missed so very much. May God comfort you and abide with you as you grieve the loss of Sam.
Lisa Long

My condolences go out to Mary Jo and Family, Mr. Sam will be missed and forever in our hearts.
 From the Lazo Family(neighbors)

I was fortunate enough to work with Sam at Aldine High School for a short time in the early 80’s when I was an assistant principal under Vernon Lewis and Sam was the Boy’s Track Coach and Cross Country Coach. I remember Sam as someone of unquestionable character who loved coaching and was highly respected by all his colleagues. Sam made his mark on many lives over the years and my sincere condolences go out to his wife, Mary Jo, and all the family.   Pat Huff

I not only had the honor of running FOR Coach Kruse at Smiley,  I also coached WITH Coach Kruse at Aldine.  He taught me so much about track and I'll always cherish the memories I had with him.  He was a great man.  
Sincerely, 
Robin Smith 

Sam was my host father when I was an exchange student from Germany in the USA  in 1979/1980! I cannot imagine a better host dad than him during my senior high school year at Mac Arthur High School! He did not only introduce me to the “American way of life”  but he stayed a friend for a lifetime! I owe him so many unforgettable memories (e.g. he and Mary Jo came to Germany when I got married in 1993 and he walked me down the aisle since my father wasn’t alive anymore)! Sam had great knowledge of historical and political  issues, a great sense of humor and a loving and caring heart! I still can’t believe Sam’s gone now but he will be in my heart forever 💝

I knew Sam as my History department chairman.  He loved History and getting the facts right. We would engage in several discussion on history and in the end we would agree to disagree. Sam and Mary Jo could really throw a great party at their home. The party did not have to have a reason it was just because. Those were the days. I want to thank him and Mary Jo for making the History department a family. Rest in Peace and I will see you when I see you up there.

Coach Kruse was an exceptional teacher. I learned so much about history in his class at Aldine HS, and he challenged me like no other teacher ever has. He was caring, and motivating, and every time I watch a historical movie or read a historical book, I think of him. Prayers for all who loved him. RIP Mr. Kruse.

We will greatly miss Sam's visits to his grandparents home in Cheapside. He shared photos and his memories. 
Thank you, Sam. You will be missed.
Diane and David

OBITUARY

Sammy Ray Kruse

April 20, 1938 – January 5, 2022

Brookside Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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