Robert William Krause

Robert William Krause was called home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 1, 2025. Robert (Bob) was born in Waseca County on May 19, 1933, to William and Florence (Wetzstein) Krause. As a young boy during the Great Depression, he would run barefoot in the summer, get a new pair of bib overalls for the school year, and would collect scrap metal and milkweed pods (used in life preservers) with his country school classmates for the war effort. After graduating from Waseca High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served from 1952 to 1956 as an aircraft mechanic. While home on leave during a Christmas break, he took notice of a young woman while attending a Christmas program at his childhood church. Robert would go on to court Darlene Emily Bathke during his remaining time in the service. They were married on June 7, 1958. Robert took over running the family farm for the third generation. He moved his bride into his childhood home and went on to raise two daughters in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Suzanne Renee and Cynthia Lynn were born to this union. “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” graced the front door of the home. When Darlene became ill with breast cancer in 1981, Robert stood by her side and lovingly cared for her through all of her appointments and treatments. He gave her the gift of being able to pass away in the home she cared for during her life. Robert also took up the craft of woodcarving during his mid-life. Many cowboy caricatures and carved pictures grace the homes of family and friends. Robert was a “people person” and could strike up conversations with just about anybody. It was said of Robert that his word and handshake were as good as any written contract. Robert loved his family fiercely and without condition. He will be deeply missed by his family and the many friends he had.

Robert is survived by his daughter Suzanne Ruff and her husband Mark, his daughter Cynthia Beck and granddaughter Olivia Beck, and his sister Arlene Foels. He was preceded in death by his wife Darlene, his parents, and sisters Shirley Krause and Fern Watland.

Funeral Service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at Christ Community Church, 2200 4th St NE, Waseca. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at the Woodville Cemetery in Waseca. Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service are handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Moments Hospice Foundation, 820 Lilac Dr N. Suite 210, Golden Valley, MN 55422.