Shelba “ Sam” Kruse, Smithville, Mo., formerly Beloit

SMITHVILLE, MO. (formerly Beloit) – Shelba Louise Kruse, 73, of Smithville, MO passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at home with her loving family by her side. She was born October 27, 1948, in Bowling Green, KY to James and Roberta (Jameson) Cole.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, family always came first. In her spare time she enjoyed baking, especially chocolate cake. She took pride in her garden and made homemade salsa, hot mustard and jellies which she loved gifting to family, friends and healthcare providers. An avid sports fan, she was always cheering for her Royals, Chiefs and Saints. Shelba also enjoyed various crafts and was proud of her pig collection. Shelba loved the holidays and decorating for them. She also enjoyed country music and attended many notable concerts throughout her life, her most cherished being Willie Nelson.

She married Anthony Kruse on September 4, 1981, in Hays, KS, and they raised their family in Beloit, KS before relocating to be nearer to family later in life. In addition to Anthony, survivors include her children: Gretchen Kruse (James Webb), Marshal Kruse (Megan), Mariah Henson (Nate) and Josey Kass (Mychal); five grandchildren: Gabe Webb; Charley Kruse; Arabella, Ellis and Miles Henson; two sisters: Jennifer Wiseman (Bill) and Cindy Pauly (David); sister-in-law Linda Cole; numerous nieces, nephews and many close cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, dear brother Craig Cole and nephew Josh Cole.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’ s Hospice or Midwest Transplant Network-Lung.

Memories of Shelba and condolences may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com