John Sterling Kruse

John Sterling Kruse, 76 of Gonzales, LA, passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026 leaving behind a lifetime of love, adventures, stories, and more than a few colorful opinions. Born on December 5, 1949 in San Bernardino, CA, and raised in Baton Rouge, LA, John, Johnny, or Possum as some called him, was a man who preferred action over words and privacy over attention. He was not one to seek the spotlight, but those closest to him understood the depth of his love for his family, his sharp mind, and his loyalty as a husband and father.

After graduating from Redemptorist Catholic High School in 1989, John joined the United States Army Reserves and served for six years. He attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (USL/ULL) where he earned a degree in sociology and met the love of his life, Mary Stella Patin. John spent the first part of his adult life in construction, building things that were meant to last. Later, he embarked on a second career in nursing, where he cared for others with the same determination, grit, and practical common sense that guided his life. He loved hunting and fishing and was happiest outdoors, whether sitting quietly by the water or walking through the woods. Later in life, he enjoyed sitting in his cheap lawn chair at the edge of the garage, judging people who passed by. He was clever and loved working with his hands. He had a sense of humor and a quick wit that often appeared at the most inappropriate times.

John was also known for being a little cranky. He admitted to and agreed with this description of himself on many occasions. He had little patience for nonsense, wasn't interested in small talk, and rarely softened his opinions to make them easier to hear. He expressed himself freely, often with a colorful vocabulary that could make even a simple story more memorable. Those who loved him learned that beneath the gruff exterior, the sarcasm, and the occasional string of robust combinations of cuss words was a man with a big heart who was devoted to his family. John showed his love through actions rather than speeches. He worked hard and always showed up early. If he fixed something, built something, taught a skill, shared a hunting or fishing trip, or quietly showed up to judge an elementary school science fair, that was his way of saying he loved you.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Mary Stella Patin Kruse, oldest son, Hank (Allison), granddaughter, Madison, daughter, Mamie (Luther), and youngest son, Mak (Maria). He is preceded in death by his parents, John W. Kruse and Regina Bordelon Kruse and his sister, Bonnie Kruse Tranchina.

John lived and died on his own terms. He leaves behind a family who loved him, stories that will be retold for generations, and a legacy of hard work, resilience, humor, and stubborn determination. While he certainly would not have wanted a

fuss made over him and would have had a delightful choice of words about his obituary, he will be deeply missed by those who loved him.

There will be a celebration of John’s life at St. Mark Catholic Church in Gonzales, LA on Friday, August 14, 2026. The Rosary and Visitation will begin at 9:45am and the Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00am.

May he rest in peace. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen

In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Hospice of Baton Rouge or a Louisiana nonprofit wildlife fund of your choice.