Verna E. (Miller) Kruger

Verna Evelyn (Miller) Kruger, 83, of Cambridge, formerly of Neponset, passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at UnityPoint – Trinity, Bettendorf Campus.  A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Bunker Hill Church, Buda, IL.  Pastor Chantha Chhim will officiate.  Burial will follow at Rosedale Cemetery, Cambridge, IL.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel, on Friday, April 25, 2025.  Memorials may be directed to the Rock River Bible Camp, 910 Bend Road, Dixon, IL, 61021.

Born March 28, 1942, in rural Manlius, IL, she was the seventh child of Everett and Luvena (Sapp) Miller. Verna’s childhood in Neponset, Illinois, nurtured a lifelong love of music, a gift she joyfully shared with family, friends, and her church community throughout her life.

Her dedication to others was evident in her many roles. For twenty years, she served with compassion in the dietary department of Hillcrest Home, culminating in her certification as Dietary Manager in 1982. She considered caring for the residents a privilege, not merely a job. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, reflected in her more than forty years of active membership at Calvary Evangelical Congregational Church of Hooppole, where she served as a missionary fellowship member, Sunday school teacher, and volunteer. She also contributed generously to the Geneseo Christian Women’s Club, holding executive positions. Beyond her church involvement, she was a valued member of the Munson Township Neighborhood Club, Munson Township Election Judge for many years, Sundowner’s Home Extension Club, and the Mother of Twins Club, demonstrating her commitment to community and fellowship.

On September 11, 1960, Verna married the love of her life, Donald W. Kruger, in Neponset, Illinois. She leaves behind a legacy of love and family, including her beloved husband, Donald Kruger of Cambridge, IL; daughter, Wendy L. (Emilio) Biagiotti of Greenwich, CT; sons, Mitchell T. (Michelle) Kruger of Buda, IL, Brent W. (Julie) Kruger of Dixon, IL, and Bradley Kruger; eleven cherished grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren (with another on the way) whom were the “apples of her eye”; and daughter-in-law, Jenny Kruger-Brooks.

Verna’s life was a testament to faith, family, and service. Her kind heart, musical talent, and unwavering dedication will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. In her own words, Verna wished everyone "a great day and wonderful forever with her Lord, Jesus Christ!"

She was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Luvena Miller; son, Bradley Kruger; brothers, Preston and Wendell Miller; and also, her sisters, Lillie Schmidt, Barbara Whittaker, and Wanda Miller who were deeply important to her.