Judge John Adam Kruse, age 70, of Marshfield, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on January 12, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.
John was born to Dr. Francis Kruse Jr. and Charlotte Kruse and grew up in Marshfield, a community that remained the anchor of his life. He graduated from Marshfield Senior High School in 1973 and went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1978. Driven by a deep sense of justice and service, John continued his education at McGeorge School of Law at the University of the Pacific in Sacramento, California.
On February 18, 1984, John married the love of his life, Jodi Kruse (Huber), in Marshfield. Together they built a life rooted in faith, friendship, laughter, and a fierce devotion to family.
John dedicated his professional life to public service. He served as Marshfield Municipal Judge—a role he held with great integrity and pride—while concurrently practicing family law as an attorney. In each capacity, John was known for his fairness, steady judgment, and deep respect for the people he served. John believed deeply in doing what was right, even when it was difficult, and he carried that belief into every role he held.
Outside of work, John embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved traveling, cooking, and music—especially jazz—and was happiest outdoors. Whether tending his yard and koi pond, walking the dogs, camping, hunting, canoeing, cross-country skiing, or golfing (most notably at the Huber Open), John found joy in simple, shared moments. He had a particular fondness for travel to the Caribbean, especially the Cayman Islands, where adventure, simplicity, and connection came together.
In recent years, John took his love of adventure beneath the surface. Just last year, he earned his scuba diving certification alongside his daughter, Katherine—a milestone that brought him great pride and joy. He delighted in both scuba diving and snorkeling, always eager to explore something new. He was also known to savor good conversation over whiskey and cigars, surrounded by friends and family.
John had a legendary competitive streak. Whether it was a fiercely played game of Trivial Pursuit, a hand of euchre, or a friendly debate over sports or politics, he brought focus, strategy, and humor to every contest. Winning mattered—but even more so, the camaraderie, laughter, and stories that followed.
Sports were a lifelong passion. John enjoyed soccer and cross country and was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. He gave back generously by coaching basketball and teaching Sunday school, quietly shaping young lives through patience, encouragement, and example. His faith guided him daily, not loudly, but consistently and sincerely.
Above all else, John was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jodi Kruse; his children, Brian Olson of Marshfield; Alison (Michael) Jump of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Katherine Kruse of San Diego, California. He was an immensely proud grandfather to Chase Olson, Tenley Olson, Adam Jump, and Anna Jump, who brought him endless joy and pride.
John is also survived by his sisters: Nancy (Peter) Young of Orlando, Florida; Josephine (John) Kleiber of Edina, Minnesota; and Frances Kruse of Verona, Wisconsin; along with many nieces and nephews who were dear to him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Francis Kruse Jr. and Charlotte Kruse; his in-laws, David and Ellen Huber; and his brother-in-law, Greg Huber.
John shared his life with many beloved dogs—Bogart, Tucker, Maverick, Marley, Annie, and Jazz—and leaves behind his faithful companion, Teddy, who rarely left his side.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Rembs Celebration Center in Marshfield, WI from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., with a memorial service beginning at 2:00 p.m. The service is open to all who wish to honor and remember John.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John’s name to the charity of the donor’s choice.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Compassus for their compassionate care and support during John’s final journey.
John will be remembered for his integrity, his generosity, his steady faith, his competitive spark, and his adventurous spirit—always curious, always engaged, and always deeply devoted to the people he loved.
Condolences may be sent online at www.rembsfh.com
Author: News Desk
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