Charles Le Roy Kruger

Charles Le Roy Kruger, age 89, born in Centralia, Illinois, on August 12, 1935, passed away peacefully in hospice, on September 2, 2024.

Charles Kruger is survived by his 3 children, Mark, Sheryl, and Robert. His grandchildren, Melissa Baker, Caprice Cianci (husband Tom), Lisa Ngo, and Kyle Kruger (wife Holly); as well as three great grandchildren, Aria Cianci, Aiden Harmon, and Hayden Kruger. 

He is survived by his sister Millie Greidanus. Along with his niece Tracy Haney.

Charles Kruger, known as Kruger to friends and Family, married Nancy Sue Hooper on August 31st, 1958. They were married for 58 years before Nancy lost her battle with cancer. He missed her greatly over the last 7 plus years. We know he is now with her in heaven. 

Kruger grew up in Centralia, Illinois. As a young man he did many odd jobs from picking strawberries to milking cows, mowing huge yards, and working in a chicken slaughter house. Growing up in the depression he developed an uncanny drive to be successful. He worked in the candy business as a young man working for Hollywood brands. He was drafted to serve in the US Army and was stationed with his wife in Frankfurt, Germany. After his honorable discharge the family back to the states. He went back to work for Hollywood brands. He was offered the territory of New Mexico and the family moved to Albuquerque in the early 60's. He was called back into the US Army for another couple of years. He started the "Charles Kruger Company". After retiring, he was inducted into the Candy Brokers Hall of Fame in Hershey, Pennsylvania. 

Memorial services will be held at French Funeral home at 10500 Lomas Blvd NE, Lomas Blvd NE, just East of Eubank Blvd NE. September 23, 2024. Memorial service at 10 AM, with burial services will be held at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2 PM.