Robert Lee Kruger, 72, of Baltimore, Md., formerly of Orion, passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2010, after suffering a stroke on Saturday, May 1.
In accordance with Mr. Kruger’s request, he was cremated. A memorial service to celebrate his life is being planned in the near future in Illinois.
Mr. Kruger was born on April 29, 1938 in Illinois, the third son of Earl and Julia. After graduating from Orion High School, he attended Black Hawk College in Moline and transferred to Webster College, Webster Grove, Mo., where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in Theater. He was a member of the first co-educational graduating class at Webster College.
Because of medical reasons, Robert did not pursue a professional career in the theater, but instead spent most of his life in the retail industry in the greater Baltimore area. He ultimately became an expert in the buying, selling and repairing of antique rugs.
Survivors include his partner of over 40 years, Edgar Barker, Baltimore; brothers, Dan Kruger of Litchfield Park, Ariz., and Bill (Barbara) Painter of Prophetstown; sisters, Mary Ann (Bob) Nooner of Long Beach, Calif.; and Laurie Jo (Jay) Archibald of Jacksonville, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews scattered all over the country.
He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Kruger; his stepfather, Marion Painter; his mother, Julia Painter; and two brothers, James and Jerry Kruger.
