Craig Kruger

MADISON - Craig Scott Kruger, age 60, of Madison, passed away on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at Beloit Memorial Hospital. He was born in Madison, on April 19, 1961, the son of James and JoJean (Hansen) Kruger. Craig spent the last year fighting for more time with his family and friends after a devastating cancer diagnosis in 2020. He passed away at home after several weekends of great food, football games, hugs, and laughter. Craig spent his childhood in Madison and graduated from Madison West High School in 1979. He completed an apprenticeship and was known for being a jack of all trades. He worked as an HVAC Technician independently and for several businesses in Madison and the surrounding area. Craig also spent many years working closely with his lifelong friend, Mike Piazza, completing jobs all over the state of Wisconsin. Later in life he completed his Technical Diploma in Custodial Services from Chippewa Falls in 2011. Craig was a proud father to his two girls, Amy and Mandy. He was known to spend many moments bragging about their accomplishments and goals. He also loved his hometown of Madison and everything it had to offer. Craig enjoyed boating on Lake Wisconsin, riding Harley motorcycles, fishing, camping, and spending quality time with friends and family. He frequented many local taverns and spent many nights playing pool and shooting darts. He was known for his extraordinary cooking, humor, and hard work. Many would say he is best remembered for always lending a helping hand. His heart was often bigger than his wallet and he would give what little he had to help someone in need. Craig is survived by his two daughters, Amy (Jeff) Lanphier and Mandy (Jacob) Krigbaum; five grandchildren, Audria Lanphier, Jayna Lanphier, Nadine Krigbaum, Emily Krigbaum and Brian Krigbaum; sister, Kim (Bill Schultz) Kruger; nephews, Nicholas (Calley Mae) Flanagan and Jonathon Allen (Heidi) Flanagan; his best friend, Mike Piazza; and beloved cat, Kiki Mama; along with many other relatives, friends, and neighbors throughout the years. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Todd Allen Kruger. A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. There will be a gathering for friends and family at the DUTCH MILL SPORTS CLUB, 4818 Dutch Mill Road, Madison, immediately following the service. His daughters would love people to come and share their favorite memories of Craig and all the joy he would bring. A special thank you to UW Carbone Cancer Center in Madison for all their work and dedication. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420