Obituary of Michael J. Kruse

Michael Joseph Kruse, 53, of Williamsville, NY, passed away unexpectedly on November 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. We are heartbroken that he left this world far too soon. Mike was born in Chicago, Illinois on November 27, 1971, to the parents of Ronald and Maureen Kruse. He was their second child, and his sister Kim was so proud to have a baby brother. The Kruse family relocated to Buffalo, NY in 1976. Mike attended Baker Road Elementary School, Orchard Park Middle School and graduated from Orchard Park High School in 1990. While in elementary school, he met his lifelong friends: Brian Sullivan, Dave Palmeri, Rico Suriani, Todd Ernest, and Tommy DiGioia. After graduating high school, he proudly joined the United States Air Force in 1990. He served with honor in Saudi Arabia during Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the Gulf War. His dedication was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal. A testament to his commitment to country and community, he separated from service in 1994. After his completion of the Air Force, Mike lived in NYC and met new friends Michael Dexter and Adam Ryba. He returned to Buffalo in 2000 and enrolled in Medaille College. While there he met the love of his life, Patricia Hogue. They were married in July 2004, under a blue moon at a beautiful outdoor ceremony in Taughannock Falls State Park. In April 2007, they welcomed their first and only child, a son named Dakota. Mike was also a dog dad to Cobra, Shadow and their puppies Jacques, Marmaduke and Marquis. Michael's life was defined by service and compassion. He worked at the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). He chaired the Buffalo VA Chapter where he tirelessly advocated for fellow veterans, alongside his friends: Al Giordano, Tim McGowan, and Jake Hipps. Beyond his professional and volunteer work, Michael found joy in playing hockey and skiing with his son, outdoor adventures with his wife, and traveling—whether exploring Chicago, the Adirondacks, Arizona, or the familiar beauty of Western New York. Michael was an avid Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres fan. Above all, Michael cherished time spent with his family and friends. He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Kruse, and beloved son, Dakota Kruse. He also leaves behind his father, Ronald Kruse, and sister, Kim Foran. He was loved by all of his in-laws; Joe Foran, Chiara Hogue DeLosh, Lusuan Hogue, Takoa Hogue, Sharon and Lucian Hogue. He was the favorite "Uncle Mikey" to Joseph Foran, Andrew Foran, Katie Foran, Shaylee DeLosh, Broderick DeLosh, Xioma Hogue, Lusuan Hogue Jr., Carlos Hogue, and Gabriel Hogue. He was preceded in death by Maureen Kruse, Edward Szomocki, Herbert Hogue, Marion Boquard and his beloved dog Marmaduke. The wake will be held on Friday morning December 12th from 11:00am - 1:00pm at the JAMES W. CANNAN FUNERAL HOME, INC., 3155 Orchard Park Road in Orchard Park, NY (716) 675-9027 where a funeral service will follow at 1:00pm. The interment will follow the services at the Forest Lawn Cemetery. His warmth, humor, and steadfast love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In honoring his memory, may we carry forward his spirit of adventure, service, and love.