LeLand (Lee) Krueger

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of LeLand (Lee) Krueger, after a long and courageous battle with congestive heart failure. Lee left this world peacefully on October 25, 2025 surrounded by his family. Born on July 5, 1935, in the small town of Westboro, Wisconsin as the fifth child of Frank and Marie (née Seivert) Krueger. From a young age, his boundless curiosity and warmth set him apart from others. He delighted his friends and family with captivating narratives about his hunting, fishing, and various adventures during his youth. A proud graduate of the Medford High School Class of 1952, Lee further pursued his education at a two-year teaching college in Medford, where he was fortunate to meet, Maxine (Bohn). Together, in Medford, they created a home filled with family, friends and the joy of raising four daughters. In 1968, the Krueger’s embarked on a new adventure in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where Lee discovered his true calling as a Motor Coach Driver—Driving for Wisconsin Michigan Coaches, Trailways, and then with Lamers Tour and Travel, retiring in 2010.

Lee’s career spanned hundreds of thousands of miles and touched the lives of countless passengers. To travel with Lee was to share in an experience filled with laughter, kindness, and genuine connection. His warmth and compassion turned everyday journeys into meaningful adventures, and strangers into lifelong friends. With every mile traveled, Lee created memories that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of friendship, joy, and care will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Lee often spoke fondly about his years driving for high school and college sports teams, as well as for visiting NFL teams traveling to Lambeau Field. He skillfully navigated storms and unpredictable weather across the country, always getting his passengers safely to their destination. Map reading and navigation weren’t just part of the job — he made sure they became second nature to his daughters as well. Lee loved recounting his visits to his favorite diners and restaurants across the nation. Where you can hear him say “Let me tell you a story about….” Above all, Lee's heart belonged to the breathtaking landscapes of the West, where the vast open skies and winding highways filled him with boundless happiness and tranquility. Lee eagerly expanded his treasured collection of exquisite Black Hills Gold jewelry, intricately carved walking sticks, and an array of colorful hats. Along the way, he gathered an endless supply of laughter and stories, each contributing to his life's journey.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Frank C. and Marie A. (née Sievert); his brothers, LeMoyne (Jean) of Brookfield, WI, LeRoy (Pauline) of Merrill, WI, and Gordon (Sue) of Madison, WI; his sisters, Ruth Strobach of Santa Barbara, CA, and Noreen (Leo) Lowers of West Bend, WI; and his nephews, Kurt Krueger and Mark Strobach.

He is survived by his sister, Karen Krueger of Madison, WI, and his brother-in-law, Fred Strobach of Santa Barbara, CA. Lee leaves behind his beloved daughters: Gale (Paul) Denis of Green Bay, WI; Kyme of DePere, WI; Brenda (Allen) Chantelois of Malone, WI; and Val (Steven) Walters of Green Bay, WI.

He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: David (Molly) Charles, Greg Charles (Pauline Chu), Stephanie Charles, Kristie (Joseph) Barbaro, Sara (Chris) Rismeyer, Matt Baye, Jonathan (Randi) Greenley, Joshua Greenley, Nicholas (Amber) Walters, and Nathan Walters. And three step-grandchildren: Josh (Ashley) Denis, Abby (Seth) Block, and Kara (Jeff) Brice, as well as great-grandchildren: Alex Glysch; James and Henry Charles; Joseph, Vincent, and Kathryn Barbaro; Bennett Charles; Grace and Reid Rismeyer; Charlotte and Parker Denis; Harrison, Clayton, and Ada Block; Griffin, Lilia, and Amelia Brice. Ten nieces and nephews.

Lee’s, heartfelt warmth, and enduring spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. On the next adventure you take please think of Lee and his thoughts that nothing ignites curiosity or shapes character quite like travel. Each journey is a passport to self-discovery, inviting you to step beyond the familiar and embrace the unknown. Travel can fill you with awe, transforms strangers into friends, and offers countless adventures that linger long after you return home. Those moments become not only the stories you’re eager to share, but also treasured memories that bring comfort and inspiration for years to come.

Lee’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Renaissance Assisted Living, Unity Hospice and the Meng Residence. Your Care and kindness brought comfort, dignity, and warmth to Lee’s final months.

Family and friends are invited to join in remembering and celebrating Lee’s life on the Simply Cremations website. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.