Benjamin Henry Kruger

Benjamin Henry "Benny" Kruger III, 45, of Springfield, died at 4:32 p.m. on Friday, May 2, 2008 at his mother's home. Benny was born on December 2, 1962 in Springfield, the son of Benjamin H. Kruger Jr. and Barbara E. Biesenthal Kruger. He married Maria Romanotto on March 26, 1988 at St. Aloysius. Benny graduated from Lanphier High School in 1980. He had worked as an autoglass installer and was also member of the Carpenter's Union, Local 16 for fourteen years. Those who knew him know he was, fun-loving and sentimental with a great sense of humor. Benny was an enthusiastic chef, affectionately referred to as "Benny-Crocker", loved dirtbikes, enjoyed fair rides, watching races, and playing his guitar. Benny was also known as "Benny-Logic" and to his wife as, "Ben-Yad-Rod-Reekus." He deeply loved his family, especially his daughters. He naturally helped others and was known as a caretaker. Preceding Benjamin in death was his grandparents. Benjamin is survived by his wife, Maria of Springfield; his daughters, Katie M. and Angela E. Kruger of Springfield; his father, Benjamin Kruger, Jr. of Athens; his mother, Barbara Kruger of Springfield; his brother, Bill (wife, Tami) Kruger of Springfield; his sister, Lisa (fianc, George Colburn) Kruger of Springfield; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2008, at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703. A funeral ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2008, at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home with Rev. David Upchurch, officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be made to Katie and Angela Kruger Scholarship Fund, c/o Marine Bank, 1953 Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL 62702.