Alex Kruch

Alex Kruch, 91, of West Branch passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at Harlin Assisted Living Center. Mr. Kruch is survived by his wife Genevieve (Zettel); and his 8 children Bob (Mary) Kruch of Williamston, MI; Richard (Joy Warner) Kruch of Denver, CO; Raymond (Debbie) Kruch of Holt, MI; Charles (Sherry) Kruch of Rudyard, MI; Anne (Jay) Slagle of Plymouth, MN; Joseph (Rhonda) Kruch of West Branch, MI; Kathy Kruch of Alger, MI; and Dennis Kruch of Cedar, MI. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren (Jennifer, Emily (Matt), Brandon, Nathan (Abby), Amy, Aaron, Emily, Brian, Melissa, Alie, Kellie and Kristie). Alex was blessed with his first great granddaughter Risa last November. Mr. Kruch worked at Ford Motor Company during World War II where he met Genevieve, a native of West Branch. They were married on August 5, 1944 and moved to West Branch on March 15, 1946. Just down the road from Genevieve’s birthplace/childhood home, they purchased a quarter section to begin their family farm. Mr. Kruch stopped dairy farming in 1967 and eventually worked at Franklin Concrete which was later followed by Valenite Metals Corp where he retired at the age of 65. After retirement, he enjoyed working with his hands, supervising the farm, sitting on the deck and overlooking the pond which he constructed with his family in the late 50’s. He was also a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Visitation at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin Sunday, April 14, 2013 from 3-8 pm with a Rosary being said at 4:00 pm. On Monday Alex will lie in state at St. Joseph Catholic Church from 10:00 am until time of funeral mass at 11:00 am. Father Patrick Maher will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph School or Ogemaw County Genealogical & Historical Society, P.O. Box 734, West Branch, MI 48661.