Obituaries

December 31, 1946 to December 10, 2019

WINAMAC - Richard Wayne “Dick” Kruzick , 72, Winamac, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 10.

He was born Dec. 31, 1946 in Northville, Mich. to the late Hubert Paul and Marguerite Maxine Swanson Kruzick. The family then moved to Winamac, where Dick graduated from Winamac High School in 1964. He studied business at Ball State University for one year, followed by a second year at the University of Hawaii.

He is survived by his wife, Tari; his son, Robert (Kimberly) Kruzick of Michigan; his daughter, Ericka (John) Crist of Winamac; his five grandsons; and his brothers, Larry (Trude) Kruzick of Florida, David (Mary) Kelton of Virginia, Tom (Mary) Kruzick of Florida and Kent (Diane) Kruzick of Winamac; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Kruzick enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in August of 1966, and married Theresa Jane “Tari” Roth on April 1, 1967, while he was on leave. They were stationed briefly at Chanute Air Force Base (Illinois), followed by Edwards Air Force Base (California), where he studied Spanish, hoping to be sent to Spain. Instead, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he served a one-year tour, and then ended his military service at Dover Air Force Base (Delaware), where son, Robert was born. He was honorably discharged in August of 1970. The couple returned to Indiana, and he resumed his studies at Ball State University, and earned his bachelor of science degree in 1973. The day after graduation, their daughter, Ericka was born.

Mr. Kruzick was a dedicated and loyal employee, serving Galbreath, Inc. in Winamac for 38 years. He also worked with his brother, Kent at Bobko, Inc., at the Knox and Michigan City locations. He loved computer work and was always willing and able to help others with technology. He retired on his 65th birthday in 2011, and the couple moved to The Villages, Florida, for a short time, where he enjoyed pickleball, golf cart rides and walks with Tari. Dick was diagnosed with Multiple Systems Atrophy (MSA) on Feb. 14, 2013, and the couple returned to Winamac. During his courageous battle with MSA, his God-given calmness and sense of contentment served him well. He enjoyed old movies, bird watching, stories of the grandkids, and visits from his faithful family and friends.

He was a huge fan of the Chicago Cubs, enjoying many games with his family and friends over the years at Wrigley Field and from the comfort of his home. One of the greatest nights of his life was watching the Cubs win the World Series Title in 2016. He was extremely proud of his five grandsons, each holding a special place in his heart: Ryan Kruzick, Goshen, a 2017 graduate of the University of Kentucky and Dylan Kruzick, who attends Northridge High School in Middlebury; Jonah Crist, Winamac, who attends Purdue University Northwest; and Matthew Crist and Martin Crist, who attend Winamac Community High School. He was a member of Bethel Bible Church, and he loved studying Revelations. His favorite Bible verse is “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all things will be added to you.”  Matthew 6:33 (NAS)

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, at  Bethel Bible Church in Winamac, with Pastor Joe Mollet of Dunes Hospice officiating.  The American Legion and VFW will provide military honors. Friends may visit with the family from 1 p.m. until the time of services.

In Mr. Kruzick’s memory, and in lieu of flowers, please direct any memorial donations to the Wounded Warrior Project. www.woundedwarriorproject.com

Online condolences may be offered in the guestbook at www.frainmortuary.com.