Charles William Kruse of Needville, Texas born January 17, 1941, went to be with his Lord at the age of 76 in Sugar Land, Texas December 7, 2017. Charles Kruse was born in Houston, Texas, and raised by his parents in a rural Fort Bend County area known as Clodine.

He served his country as a young adult in the United States Marine Corps. Charles and his then wife, Dolores, raised their children Elveda and Ben in Alief, Texas. During this time he was a faithful member of the Alief Brethren Church. Charles spent most of his professional life as a machinist, to later become a contractor in the community he loved. Charles loved his God and loved to sing his praises. He could often be heard from his garage, where he practiced for singing engagements, singing hymns and songs he had written about his life experiences and the state he loved. Charles spent his retirement years as a historian. He loved to study, research, discover, and be an advocate for lost and/or forgotten railroads and cemeteries. He strove to make sure, if possible, that no person's final resting place would go forgotten. Charles loved his family. He was instrumental in the care of his father and mother in their twilight years. He cared deeply for his children and grandchildren. Charles William shall be missed by many.

Charles was preceded in death by his father, Ben Kruse and mother, Irene Kruse. He is survived by his daughter Elveda Kruse, son Ben Kruse, daughter-in-law Candace Kruse, grandchildren Brandon Kruse, Christian Kruse, and Jada Kruse.

Services for Mr. Charles Kruse will be held December 13, 2017 at the Garmany and Carden Funeral Chapel, 3103 School Street Needville, Texas 77461. Viewing will begin at 10am followed by a brief celebration of life at 11am. Charles will be laid to rest after services in an intimate family graveside event at the Needville Public Cemetery.

A meal will be provided, after services around noon, for friends and family at the Community Christian Church of Rosenberg, 5220 Reading Road, Rosenberg, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be given to the Star of Hope Mission, Administrative Offices, 4848 Loop Central Dr., Suite 500, Houston, Texas 77081-2211, or your local Toys for Tots.

Condolences may be written for the Kruse family at www.garmanycarden.com

Services are under the direction of Garmany & Carden Funeral Directors, 3103 School Street, Needville, TX 77461 (979)793-4515.