Kruskop, Dr. LeRoy L.

Dr. LeRoy L. Kruskop, 90, of Cedar Rapids, formerly of Lytton, Sac City, Ames and Clinton, died Sunday, July 8, 2012, at Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy. His wishes were to be cremated, with his cremains to be interred without ceremony at Oakland Cemetery (Sac City) next to his beloved wife, Bette. A family gathering in celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Survivors include his daughters, Kimberly (Chicago) and Kaye Hennessey (Cedar Rapids); son, Kerry (Salt Lake); grandson, Jason Hennessey (Hiawatha); great-grandson, Jayson Hennessey (Cedar Rapids); and honorary great-granddaughter, Bianca Fields (Ames).

He is also survived by Spenser Elliott (Salt Lake City), who is a second son to LeRoy, and many other loving relatives and great friends.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his wife, Bette; his parents, August and Adela (Wolff) Kruskop; his brother, Leon; and his sister, Darlene Gale.

LeRoy was born Jan. 25, 1922, on a farm outside of Lytton in Sac County. After graduation from Lytton public school, he attended Iowa State University, earning BS, MS and Ph.D. degrees. LeRoy was a longtime member of Farm House Fraternity. LeRoy was a World War II veteran, serving in the AAF, before being discharged in 1946. Last year, he enjoyed the great honor of being a guest on the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight Washington DC.

LeRoy spent the majority of his career in education, including serving as the superintendent of Linn-Mar Community Schools and the finance director of the Clinton Community School District.

LeRoy loved greatly and was greatly loved. He had a knack for forming and maintaining friendships with people of all ages. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a keen interest in life. LeRoy enjoyed photography, gardening, nature, sports, music, reading and corresponding with family and friends.

Those wishing to make donations in Dr. K's honor should choose whichever charities or causes are close to their hearts. Dad would approve.

Published in The Gazette July 11, 2012.