Donald J. Kruckeberg Jr., age 76, of New London, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Don was born in Appleton, Wisconsin on August 17, 1949 to the late Donald and Dorothy (Gerrits) Kruckeberg Sr.

Don worked at Piggly Wiggly in Appleton before joining the U.S. Navy in 1968 where he remained as a Petty Officer until 1971, spending time on the U.S.S. Saratoga. After returning home from service, he went back to work, where he met Cheryl. Don and Cheryl were married on July 3, 1976 and went on to raise their family in New London. Don worked several jobs in the area throughout his career and with some being in sales. In their free time, Don and Cheryl enjoyed going to the family cottage on Arbutus Lake near Pickerel. Don also enjoyed coaching baseball and cheering for the Packers and Brewers.

Don is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Cheryl; sons, Robby (Ann) Arnold and Ryan (Laura) Kruckeberg; grandchildren, Dylan, Quinn, and Rylee; siblings, Chuck (Mary) Kruckeberg, Robin (BJ) Kruckeberg, Patti (Dave) Schroeder; and brother-in-law, Perry (Muggs) Schroeder.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Dorothy Kruckeberg; and grandson, Austin Arnold.

The family would like to thank the staff at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center as well as ThedaCare Hospice for the kindness and compassion given to Don.

The Funeral Service for Don will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home with Rev. Kevin Dembinski officiating. The Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service, with full Military Honors to follow.