JACOB KRUEGER

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JACOB KRUEGER On January 28, 2001, Jacob Krueger, beloved husband of Irene (nee Lubosch), passed away at his home in Winnipeg. Along with Irene, his passing will be mourned by his children, Karl (Heidi Nakka), Kathy, Karin, Krista, Paul, Kurt and Carla (Kelly Krueger Andreas). He is also survived by his brother Henry (Mary) of Altona and his aunt Elisabeth Peters. In addition, he will be sadly missed by one grandson, Jake, and his many cousins, nieces and nephews. Jacob was born in Grigorievka, Russia (Ukraine) on July 20, 1925, and a few months later, emigrated to Canada with his parents, eventually settling in Altona. Jake grew up in Altona and graduated from high school in 1943. He worked at various jobs until 1946 when he enrolled in teachers college. From 1947 to 1951 he taught in different schools in southern Manitoba and Winnipeg. In 1951, while employed full time with the CNR Express, he also enrolled as a full time student at United College. He returned to teaching in 1957 in the Norwood School Division, where he taught English at Nelson MacIntyre Collegiate. After 13 years, Jake became involved in administration, first as vice-principal of the collegiate, then as principal at Queen Elizabeth School, and finally as superintendent, which in his own words, "illustrated the validity of the "Peter Principle" a claim that colleagues and family, however, would gladly refute. In June of 1987, Jake retired from his position as superintendent because of poor health, but continued to contribute for another year to re-stock the library at Nelson MacIntyre, which had been destroyed by a fire. The library was later renamed the Jacob Krueger Library and Resource Centre. Jake will be fondly remembered by the many students and colleagues of the Norwood School Division, to which he gave a great part of his life. After being acquainted for many years, Jake married Irene Lubosch, a teacher and musician, on November 3, 1961. Together, they raised seven children. Jakes family was always the most important thing in his life, and he spent countless hours through the years supporting his children in their educational pursuits, music lessons, and sports interests. Jake also had a keen interest in literature and history, and a special love of music. His collection of classical music was enviable. His favourite composer was Mozart. In later years much of Jakes interest centred around his computer. Jake was known for his keen wit and sharp sense of humour, which never left him through the difficult years of his many health problems, and even in the minutes before his passing. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee or a charity of choice. Viewing and prayers to take place on Wednesday, January 31 at 7:00 p.m. at Klassen Funeral Chapel, 1897 Henderson Hwy. Funeral services to be held at First Mennonite Church, 922 Notre Dame Ave. on Thursday, February 1 at 11:00 a.m. Reception following the service, prior to interment in Brookside Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Klassen Funeral Chapel, 338-0331.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 30, 2001