William C. Krueger, 88, of Defiance, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at The Laurels of Defiance, surrounded by his family.

Born on March 15, 1938, in Napoleon, Ohio, to Paul and Laura (Mabus) Krueger, William was a man defined by quiet strength, unwavering faith, and lifelong dedication to both his family and his work. A 1955 graduate of Liberty Center High School, he went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1957 aboard the USS Whetstone, where he worked as a Signalman and earned the rank of Quartermaster.

On August 26, 1961, William married the love of his life, Anita Nordhaus. Together they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and enduring love. William continued to honor that love through the example he set—most especially in the years he faithfully cared for her with devotion and tenderness until Anita’s passing on February 9, 2009.

William was a hardworking and loyal employee of the Gerken Paving Company, where he was affectionately nicknamed, “Uncle Bill”. He was a hired as the company’s first Plant Operator in 1961, and remained dedicated to his work until his retirement. He took pride in a job well done and in providing for his family.

A devoted member of St. Michael’s Ridge Catholic Church, Bill lived his faith each day and gave generously of his time in service. He served on the Parish Council, was a Eucharistic Minister, and faithfully brought Holy Communion to shut-ins. He was always willing to lend a hand, including making noodles for parish festivals and preparing coleslaw for the Knights of Columbus fish fries for many years.

Bill found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in time spent with others. He and Anita shared many years together ushering at Notre Dame football games, a tradition he deeply cherished. He also took great pride in restoring his father’s 1951 Dodge pickup, which he enjoyed showcasing at local car and truck shows.

In his retirement, Bill continued to serve others as a volunteer at the Defiance County Senior Center and was a familiar, friendly face during “Storytime” gatherings over coffee at McDonald’s, where he enjoyed conversation and camaraderie. Bill will be remembered for his steady presence, his kind heart, his strong work ethic, and his deep, abiding faith.

He is survived by his children, Thad Krueger of Defiance, Steve (Leslie) Krueger of Pennsylvania, and Karla (Gregory) Keiffer of Risingsun, Ohio; daughter-in-law Rona Krueger of Greenville, Ohio; and foster daughter Elizabeth Dillon of Temperance, Michigan. He also leaves behind twelve grandchildren—Lauren (Julian), Lukus (Cate), Sean, Ryan (Jonessa), Paul, William, Grace, Kate, Casey (Ashton), Megan, Caroline, and Abraham—two great-grandchildren, Rilynn and Adelyn; and his sister, Carol Flory of Wauseon.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Anita; his parents; his daughter, Jennifer Krueger; his sons, Christopher, Anthony, and Alexander Krueger; his brother, Jack Krueger; and his sister, Nancy Krueger.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 7, at St. John Catholic Church in downtown Defiance, with Fr. George Wenzinger officiating. William will be laid to rest at Riverview Memory Gardens with Military Honors conducted by VFW Post 3360.

Memorial contributions may be made to Filling Home Memorial Home of Mercy in Napoleon, Ohio.