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Richard “Dick” Francis Krull, 82, passed into the loving arms of Jesus on Thursday, March 27th at 5:40 AM in LaGrange, Indiana.
Dick was born November 2, 1942, to Gerhard and Eileen (Ihrie) Krull at McCray Hospital in Kendallville.
Dick and his siblings had a wonderful and unique childhood growing up at Kneipp Springs in Rome City, Indiana where their father was the farm manager. While their parents certainly thought it was “all work and no play”, many a story has been told about their antics when they weren’t busy picking dandelions, unloading train cars, tending to the livestock or doing whatever other chores the Sisters assigned them. These early years laid the foundation for all that Dick became to his family and friends later in life. He was everyone’s first call whenever a problem arose and he never said no. Always the first to lend a helping hand and the last to ask for one.
To many that knew him, he was a “fixer”. Affectionately nicknamed “MacGyver” by his daughter, there wasn’t a carpentry, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing problem he couldn’t fix with a little grey tape, tools from his trunk, elbow grease, and his greatest asset, ingenuity. “Measure once, cut twice” he’d say with a wink and a smirk. He raised his children and grandchildren to have that same strong work ethic, independence and selflessness, although we could never compare.
Early in his career, Dick worked at Gateway Trucking in Kendallville, McClure Implement, and Ligonier Tree Service. However, Dick spent most of his working years at, and retired from, J O Mory in South Milford, Indiana. Working in both residential and commercial roles, he grew an enviable rolodex of friends, colleagues and clients. These relationships led to his post-retirement career as a Consultant for Snax N Pax in Topeka, Indiana where he enjoyed many more years challenging his mind and problem-solving skills while building lasting friendships with everyone there. It was a rewarding experience and the connections there added years and quality to his life. His family is grateful he had that opportunity. He loved every moment he spent with that team; Will, Patty, Mike, Octavia, Jennifer, Nicky, Michael V., and many others through the years.
In addition to the pride he had in his family and career, he was passionate about the South Milford Lions Club. As a founding member, he was deeply involved in every event and activity. His fellow members were more than that…they were family. He was incredibly proud of every contribution the Lions Club was able to make to the local schools and community at large. “Pictures with Santa” was his favorite event and he played the part a time or two. The Lions Club members strive to put their neighbors, communities and world first while serving with kindness. Our dad embodied these values.
Special thanks to all of dad’s friends and neighbors at Fish Lake…it’s a truly special neighborhood. Because of Ron and MaryAnn Lucas and their willingness to check-in regularly and assist with things occasionally, dad was able to remain at home despite his struggles the last couple of years and our family can’t thank them enough.
Bonnie with Hamilton Home Care was a loving and compassionate addition to dad’s life in the last year and we’d like to acknowledge her contribution. Dad thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Bonnie and her family. We appreciate you.
We’d also like to thank the staff at Parkview LaGrange Hospital who was so kind and caring, not only to dad but the entire family. Caiti and Eberle, you walked us through the most difficult part with love and compassion. So many others played a roll over the course of the week and we’re so grateful…Tarah, Rhoda, Noel, and Jessica, we appreciate you. We can’t count the number of times someone asked “what can we do for you”. Certainly, we’ve missed some names, our heartfelt apologies.
Dick is survived by the following: Children: Kristina (David) Rusk of Fort Wayne, Richard (Elizabeth) Krull of LaGrange, and Kyndra (Andrew) Landgraff of Churubusco. Grandchildren: Alan (Meghan) Rusk, Jennifer (Parker Crowell) Rusk, Troy Rusk, Nolan Krull, Cassandra (Zakkairy) Johnson, Jessica (Jared) Reid, Sasha (Jason) Plank, Dylan (Audri) Oster, Brandon Oster, Shea Seidel, Eliott Landgraff, Ellerie Landgraff, and an honorary granddaughter, Ash Cassel.
Great-Grandchildren: Zander, Zavier, Navaya, Grayson, Tyler, Kylie, Lauren, Natalie, Lainey, Maya, Beau, Charolette, Kimber, and Rowan in April 2025.
Brothers: David (Sandy) Krull of Palmetto , Florida and Jerry (Kay) Krull of Avilla, Indiana.
Sisters: Mary Edwards of Rome City, Barbara (Dan) Tatman of Rome City, and Betty (Al) Olry of Fort Wayne.
Many special nieces and nephews who never knew anything but love and laughter from Uncle Dick.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Troy DeWayne Krull, grandson, Richard Zane Krull and brother-in-law, Larry Edwards.
The family will receive visitors Tuesday, April 1, 2025 from 4 PM to 7 PM at Hite Funeral Home, 403 S Main St, Kendallville, IN.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 11 AM at St Gaspar del Bufalo Catholic Church, 10871 IN-9, Rome City, IN.
Pallbearers: Michael Edwards, Terry Smith, Shea Seidel, Brandon Oster, Alan Rusk and Troy Rusk.
Burial to follow at Orange Township Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Special Olympics.
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