Helen "Kay" Kruger

Helen Kay Kruger, 83, passed away on Monday December 29th, leaving behind a legacy as sweet and enduring as the cakes she baked for friends and family. Born on July 31, 1942, in Liberty Center, Iowa, Kay’s life was rooted in the values of a small family farm, where she grew up sharing a single room and a lifetime of stories with her five sisters.

In 1963, Kay married the love of her life, Gerhard Kruger. Together, they built a home centered on faith, family, and a spirited social life. Whether they were camping under the stars or playing cards until the early morning hours with friends, they remained a devoted team until Gerhard’s passing in 2004.

Kay was a cherished fixture within the Saydel School System. As a familiar and friendly face in the cafeteria, she did far more than serve meals, she took personal pride in making sure every child felt cared for and well-fed. Her service also extended into her faith community at the Immanuel United Methodist Church, where she shaped young hearts as a Sunday school teacher for many decades.

An “artist of flour and sugar,” Kay was renowned for her talent in the kitchen. She created elegant wedding cakes that marked the beginning of new journeys and imaginative birthday cakes that made every family member feel like the center of the world.

Kay was defined by a rare "gentle kindness" balanced perfectly by a subtle wit and playful spirit. She was also an avid fan of college basketball, rarely missing a chance to cheer -loudly and proudly - for her beloved Iowa State Cyclones.

Kay’s memory will be carried forward by her children, Wendi of Des Moines and Christopher of Hartland, Michigan; her grandchildren, Devin, Kannon, Kale, and Kase; her great-grandchild, Jiren; and her many nieces and nephews, whom she cherished as deeply as her own children. She is also survived by her sisters, Roberta and Patty. She was preceded in death by her sisters MaryLou, Thelma, and Fay.

All services will be held at Immanuel United Methodist Church, 2900 49th Street, Des Moines, IA 50310:

Visitation: Friday, Jan 2, 5:00 – 7:00 PM

Service: Saturday, Jan 3, 10:30 AM (Lunch will be served at the church immediately following the service)

Interment: A private burial of Kay’s urn next to Gerhard will follow the lunch for immediate family members

A Special Request: In honor of Kay’s favorite colors, the family warmly invites guests to wear a splash of red or pink to the services.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com