He graduated High School and wanted to enlist with the Navy. He dad said he wouldn’t sign but James told him he was going to forge his signature so he could enlist. He joined the Navy on January 19,1954. He married Hertha Estelle Hoffman on June 25 1960, and made it 66 years. They had two children a son, J.M. Kruse and a daughter, Janet Davis.
James worked for Conviar inspecting aircrafts, then went to work at Bell Helicopter where he retired. After retirement he and Hertha managed Mobile Home Parks and until he decided feeding cows and living on the farm was more fun. He loved to go fishing and liked to wet a hook as often as Hertha would let him. James was a happy soul and usually had a big smile on his face.
He is preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Janet Davis and a sister, Rosie Lee Kruse. He is survived by his wife Hertha; Son, J.M. Kruse and wife Lola and J.M ‘s step- daughters, Tresa Parker and husband, Mario; Whitney Johnson and Husband, Cody and one Grandson, Shane Gregory. He also leaves behind several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, love to Kathy Wagner and Roger Hammack. There is also a very special angel neighbor, Mark Gasparini that will miss him dearly.
Visitation will be held at Riley Funeral Home, 402 West Main, Hamilton, TX 76531, on July 13, 2026, at 10:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at Riley Funeral Home at 11:00 am. A Committal Service will take place at Bethel Cemetery, 11505 Fm 932, Jonesboro, TX 76538, on July 13, 2026.
