Gary Lee Krueger

Gary Lee Krueger, lived a full life on his own terms. In his 72 years he worked hard, played hard, lived hard, and loved hard. He passed peacefully alongside his Darlin' in his sleep of natural causes. Death was not when he wanted, but it was certainly the way he would have wanted.

Gary was born in Jamestown, North Dakota on October 9, 1944. He graduated from Minot High School (1962, North Dakota). He served in the US Navy as Petty Officer Second Class in the Vietnam War. He was active with the Honorary West Valley Colonels and later the Unified Police Department Honorary Colonels.

Gary was partners in WGC Constructions and friends for 42 years with J. Sterling Wootton. He was a Man's man who earned the respect and friendship of his "boys." These men meant so much to Gary (Ogden, Little Red Creek, hunting, Golf, Powell, Dinner Club, and Colonel's). His legendary wit and sarcasm ensured you knew he cared. The ones who most especially received this sarcasm and attention were Kevin & Andrew Pacheco. Gary grew to become much more than their Step-Father. Kevin and Gary became co-workers, near daily companions, and the very best of friends. Their frequent excursions to Wendover left us wondering if it was the thrill of the bet or simply the drive time they cherished so much. The memories and laughter will live with Kevin always.

For his 40th birthday, after many years as a bachelor, he stumbled upon the love of his life, Leah. Together they shared a birthdate-born a decade apart. Their connection would last the rest of his life. The man had little fear of this woman with 4 children.

Gary's tough exterior belied how sentimental he truly was. Gary had a way of expressing any truth in astonishingly few words. His statements were typically less than 10 words. One night, Gary called Leah out on their deck and told her ‘I'm lucky. My life is good. I got to marry the girl of my dreams and found the meaning and joy in my life. In the beginning I didn't realize that you would be bringing all of the meaning with you.' Gary deeply loved his daughter Kellie, his stepchildren, and grandchildren.

Gary is survived by his wife Leah Ann (since '91); former wife, Glenda Krueger ('69-'71); sister Phyllis (Bill) Moore of Illinois; brothers Richard (Elise) Krueger of Minnesota and James (Mary) Krueger of South Dakota; children Kellie (Dale) Becraft of Syracuse, Utah, Toni Pacheco of Salt Lake City, Utah, Kevin (Tracey) Pacheco of West Valley City, Utah, Andrew Pacheco of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Jona (Scott) Tate of Liberty Lake, Washington; grandchildren Karlee (Jordan) Peterson, Adam Becraft, Erin Becraft, Austin Becraft, Cade Becraft, Alexandra Tate, Jovanika Polich, and Sierra Tate. Gary was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Laura Krueger; and brother Douglas Krueger- all of North Dakota.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Friday, November 25th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building.

To know Gary was to love him! The loss of him is profound, but it is proportionate to the gifts he brought. Gary, we thank you for the amazing adventures and ride. Even though we lost you, we wouldn't have missed it for the world. If you cannot join us for the Celebration of Life please cherish a memory, tell someone you love them, and tip your glass one last time in his honor.