Thomas "Tommy" F. Krueger, age 51, passed away peacefully with the daughter of his heart, Jackie Ratz, by his side on Monday, July 4, 2022 at Life Care Center of Plainwell, Michigan.

 

Tommy was born on February 26, 1971, in La Porte, Indiana to Robert E. and Thelma (Steinfeldt) Krueger, both of La Porte. Tommy attended La Porte High School, where he graduated in 1989.

 

In August of 2002, he married Katherine Milliken. That marriage ended in 2012 but resulted in 2 bonus children, Jackie Ratz and Robert Ratz, Jr., as well as 5 amazing grandchildren.

 

Also, in August of 2002, Tommy moved to Michigan and started his career at Vickers Engineering with what would quickly become his Vickers family. He would work there until he passed away.

 

Tommy was an avid horseshoe pitcher. He started with his dad when he was about 5 and joined league in 1989. Tommy pitched for many seasons in the La Porte Horseshoe Pitchers Association as well as the Michigan City Horseshoe League. Three championships came out of all those league years--1989, 1996 and 2019.

 

Tommy was preceded in death by both his parents (Dad 1999, Mom 2005) and his older brother, Tim (2016). He is survived by his children, Jackie and Robert Ratz Jr.; his grandchildren; many cousins; and his niece, Janessa (Troy) Krueger.

 

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

 

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center with Pastor Bob Vale officiating.

 

A time of visitation will be held from 2 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Jackie Ratz, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN  46350 or to the American Cancer Society, 130 Red Coach Dr., Mishawaka, IN 46545.                             

 

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com.