Debbie Kruse Obituary

Our family is very sad to share the news of Debbie's passing on September 17, 2024, at the age of 59. Debbie was a cherished daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend to many. She is missed by everyone who knows and loves her.
Born on February 15, 1965, in Northridge, California, Debbie was the youngest child of Pam and Howard Smith. Debbie and her big sister Annette were only 11 months apart. They were very close and shared many adventures. After Pam and Howard divorced, Pam moved to Big Pine in 1968 to be nearer to family. Debbie loved spending time with her grandparents, her uncles, and her great-grandmother. She also spent a lot of time with her dad's family in Oregon and was very close to her extended family there. Debbie attended Big Pine School and was a member of the class of 1983.
Soon after graduation, Debbie married Scott Kruse. Together they welcomed sons Dakota and Bodie. Debbie loved being a stay-at-home mom and devoted herself to her boys. Their lives were filled with everything the Owens Valley has to offer a young family: fishing, hunting, rodeoing, and camping. There was never much down time at the Kruse home! Their house was always open, and something was always happening. Whether it was a High School Rodeo Association dinner, a sports team gathering, or a houseful of friends, Debbie was always there as the number one cook, cheerleader, teacher, confidant, and supporter.
As the boys grew older, Debbie began her career in insurance. What started as a part-time job eventually turned into much more. Debbie became a broker and owned and operated Sierra Sage Insurance. She loved being a part of the community and was involved with many civic organizations.
After the boys graduated from high school, Debbie left both the insurance industry and the valley. For a time, she relocated to Nevada, Washington, and Idaho before returning to Big Pine. She loved being near the mountains and the river, and she especially loved being near her grandsons.
Debbie is survived by her mom Pam Whisler of Big Pine; son Dakota, his partner-in-life Gina, and grandson Waylon; son Bodie, his wife Carly, and grandsons Peyton and Lincoln; sister Annette and brother-in-law Bill Mace; uncles Rory Scott and Cory Scott. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held on Debbie's birthday, Saturday, February 15, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Big Pine Town Hall.