Curtis Fredrick Kruse

Curt passed away peacefully at home in Yarrow Point with his wife, Sandi and son, Dean by his side. He was born in Eldora, IA and raised in Steamboat Rock, IA. He graduated from Central College in Pelle, IA in 1970, and due to a low draft number, he enrolled in the Air Force Officer Training School. He completed his training in Columbus, MS and was stationed at McChord Air Force Base the summer of 1972. He flew the C-141 throughout SE Asia. After active duty he transitioned to the reserves.

Through the GI Bill he obtained his MPPA in Public Affairs at UW, and was hired by Hughes AirWest in 1977. In 1981, Hughes merged with two other airlines to form Republic, which merged with Northwest Airlines in 1986, and merged with Delta in 2010. Curt flew the DC-9, 727, Airbus A320 and retired on the A-330 in 8/2011. He served on the Master Executive Council of the Airline Pilots Association from 1992 until his retirement in 2011.

After retirement he trained through the NW Baseball Umpires Association, and umpired high school, select, and college baseball teams. Curt and Sandi traveled extensively, sailed the San Juan Islands, and enjoyed the company of family and friends. Curt also trekked to Everest Base Camp.

Celebration of Life will be held at the Museum of Flight in Seattle on Sunday, 10/19/25 at 6 pm. RSVP via email to [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Michael J Fox Foundation.

Share a memory or condolence through the Sunset Hills Funeral Home Everlasting Memorial. Photos may be emailed to [email protected].