Contributions to the tribute of Michael J. Kruse

Orchard Park: (716) 675-9027

Home
- About Us
Funeral Planning
Pre-Planning
- Pre-Arrange Online
Resources
Obituaries
Urn Store

In Memory of

Michael J. Kruse

1971 - 2025

Tribute Wall

Obituary
Tribute Wall
Service Information
Memories

Share / Subscribe to this tribute

Share Obituary:

Friday

December

Visitation at Funeral Home

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Friday, December 12, 2025

James W. Cannan Funeral Home

3155 Orchard Park Road

Orchard Park, New York, United States

Get Directions

Friday

December

Funeral Service

1:00 pm

Friday, December 12, 2025

James W. Cannan Funeral Home

3155 Orchard Park Road

Orchard Park, New York, United States

Get Directions

Final Resting Place

Forest Lawn Cemetery

1411 Delaware Ave

Buffalo, New York, United States

Get Directions

Dexter posted a condolence

Friday, December 12, 2025

Tribute to MJK We gather here today to remember and celebrate the life of Michael J Kruse, and I have been asked and am honored to share a few heartfelt words. I’ve been Thinking on an event or happening we experienced together but choosing one memory is far from simple, because for the past thirty years, simply knowing and sharing an unconditional friendship with him has been one of the most formative and cherished parts of my life.. Mike Kruse was my colleague, roommate, best man, neighbor, and one of the kindest people I ever have known. He was a best friend to me and others and in turn—had so many he called his best friends,,,, and that’s what made him so special. Having Mike in our lives influenced us all to be a kinder and gentler, especially to oneself. He had a way about himself to listen effectively and respond accordingly. He lived life his way and always seemed to have a warm smile in greeting and was selfless to the end. He was a beacon of hope, deeply loved by many and partaking in a laugh with him was pure joy. To sum up, a memory would simply encompass the gift Kruse gave me in meeting all of you. Mike’s immediate and extended Family, multitude of friends, my beautiful wife Rosangela and my daughter, Nicole. A lifetime of memories that continue to grow every day. Thank you Michael J. Kruse. Peace and love be with you. -And all of you. By Michael Dexter

Please wait

Share Comment

Charles Stieger and Lori Dexter Steger and Dexter posted a condolence

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Mike was a wonderful person , who always had a way to make us feel important and cared about , never dismissing, a conversation, and he was so full of light, The time he would spent with us ,was filled enjoyment,and laughter, His beautiful energy will be,greatly missed , it been a blessing to have him in our life ,

Please wait

Share Comment

Charlie Tocci posted a condolence

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Q: Describe where Michael worked and what they did A: Mike was an inspiration and owe him everything for where I am today. I was a newly injured suffering a spinal cord injury shortly after discharge and was contacted by the Paralyzed Veterans of America NSO, Mike Kruse. He fought VA on my behalf pursuing service connection which was not easy. I first met him in Buffalo for my appeal hearing. After we finished, we talked for well over an hour and suggested that I interview for the new PVA NSO position opening in Syracuse where I live. A few short months and long interviews later, I was hired and know that Mike's recommendation went a long way. 13 years later, I am still with PVA fighting the fight and advocating for veterans the same way he did for me, and mentored me to do. I owe him so much and sad to see him gone. Mike will be missed by me, PVA, friends, family and the countless veterans he helped, even if just to listen.

Please wait

Share Comment

Connie Podgorski posted a condolence

Friday, December 5, 2025

I am so very sad for Tricia, Dakota, Kim, his niece and nephews, and all of us who knew and loved Mike. His mom, Maureen, was my best friend and we met in 1968. I was blessed to be Mike's Godmother! They lived in Addison and we lived in Hoffman Estates. We had so very many good times in each other's homes, watching our kids play and grow up together. We kept in touch after they moved to Buffalo but the sleep overs ended. I attended Mike and Tricias wedding which was a beautiful dream come true day for them, and lucky to attend to see Mike marry the love of his life. Mike was always caring, a good brother, very close to his mom and a loving father. I saw him every time they came to Chicago and was thrilled to see Dakota as well. I was blessed to see him when he and Kim were in to put Maureen to rest and be a part of that day. We spent the whole day catching up and sharing all the good times we had. Mike wanted to come back soon with Dakota to show him the Chicago he grew up in and we planned to meet up. I am sorry that won't happen, but comforted to know you're with your mom in God's house. My deepest Sympathy and prayers to Tricia, Dakota, Kim, Ron and family. I am so proud of all you've done Mike throughout your life and so thankful to have been part of your life's journey. Hugs, prayers and love Connie Podgorski. RIP Mike until we meet again.

Please wait

Share Comment

Ron Taylor uploaded photo(s)

Friday, December 5, 2025

/public-file/1167/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

Please wait

Share Comment

Ron Taylor uploaded photo(s)

Friday, December 5, 2025

/public-file/1165/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

/public-file/1166/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

Mike and I served in the USAF together in the 90s; he was the best roommate I ever had, despite his "unconventional" habit of washing the dishes in the bathtub. We bounced at clubs together, often hung out at Buckroe Beach, went skiing, and even went to Woodstock in '94, where lifelong memories were made. He came to see me last year for a visit, and in Mike fashion, ended up crashing here for 3 days! It was just awesome to hang out again. I was thinking just recently that I hope he drops in again soon. To his family, please accept my heartfelt condolences. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Please wait

Share Comment

Ken &Roe Delaquila posted a condolence

Friday, December 5, 2025

Dear Kim so sorry to hear about Mike! Please send our condolences to his family and to yours as well!

Please wait

Share Comment

John Melia posted a condolence

Friday, December 5, 2025

In Memory of Mike Kruse It was a shock to hear of Mike’s passing. I first met Mike in 1997 when we were classmates at the Disabled American Veterans National Service Officer Training Academy in Denver, Colorado. That was a formative time for many of us, and Mike stood out immediately—quick with a smile, contagious with his laugh, and the kind of person who made long days feel lighter. We stayed in touch throughout our careers, both at DAV and later at the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Mike served his country honorably in the United States Air Force, and he continued that service long after hanging up the uniform. He helped countless veterans and their families secure the benefits they earned, and he did it with sincerity, professionalism, and heart. He was a proud advocate—someone who made the veteran community, and this country, better through his work. To Mike’s family, I offer my deepest condolences. He was one of the good ones. We’ll see you on the other side, brother. John Melia

Please wait

Share Comment

Sharon Hogue uploaded photo(s)

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

/public-file/1161/Ultra/Image_jpg.jpg

Q: What was one of the qualities of Michael that you loved most? A: The most memorable moments of Mike that I will always remember is his kindness towards me... every time we would meet he would give me a big bear hug ! We use to talk for hours on different topics and laugh he use to say it's going to work out mom your going too win "" pch "" ok, Mike talk to God were overdue!! I will always miss you love Sharon and Lucian Hogue.

Please wait

Share Comment

The family of Michael J. Kruse uploaded a photo

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

/tribute-images/1454/Ultra/Michael-Kruse.jpg

Please wait

<< Previous Next >>

Share Your Memory of

Michael

Upload Your Memory View All Memories

Be the first to upload a memory!

Share A Memory

About Us

We are honored and privileged to be able to help families and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet your needs. What ever your faith, a traditional wake service or burial, cremation or memorial we will work within your budget to provide you with a service that will meet your expectations.

Orchard Park

James W. Cannan Funeral Home, Inc
3155 Orchard Park Road
Orchard Park, New York
14127
Tel: (716) 675-9027

[Get Directions]

Buffalo

James W. Cannan Funeral Home, Inc
2397 Seneca Street
Buffalo, New York
14210
Tel: (716) 822-1773

[Get Directions]

Quick Links

About Us
Funeral Planning
Pre-Planning
Resources
Obituaries

Admin Login