Larry Gene Krug

Larry Gene Krug was born in Chickasha, Oklahoma on August 21, 1951 to Norman “Buddy” Krug and Marion Louise (McDonald) Krug. Larry grew up in Moab, Utah for a short while before moving to Grand Junction, Colorado. In his youth he enjoyed spending time playing baseball, building models, riding motorcycles, wrestling, painting and wood crafts, and spending time with his two brothers, Terry and Jerry. He graduated from Grand Junction Central High School in 1969. Larry was known for his easy-going nature with a fearless need for adventure. A natural artist and craftsman he studied at Mesa College (now Colorado Mesa University) to fulfill his desire to pursue his passion for art.

He met Deborah Parker, the love of his life, in the summer of 1969 in Denver, Colorado. They married in 1971. Together they lived in Douglas, Wyoming then Roundup, Montana before returning to the Grand Junction area. In 1979, Larry moved his family to Purdy Mesa in Whitewater, Colorado where he built their family home. Over their 52 years together, they enjoyed the great outdoors, hunting and fishing trips, traveling, serving as Colorado Trail Hosts, watercolor painting, and everything that a ranch life can offer. 

Larry began his first career working with his father’s drilling company, Krug Drilling. He enjoyed traveling throughout the western United States and spending time with his father, his mentor. Later, he began his career as a carman for the railroad in Grand Junction. He worked there along the side of his brother, Terry. Over his 20 year career, he made many lasting friendships.

He and Deborah rejoiced at the arrival of their daughter, Lisa in 1975, and their son, Paul in 1977. Larry was an amazing father and mentor to both of his children. He enjoyed his daily visits catching up with them while he enjoyed his happy hour on the back deck watching the sunset. 

He was blessed to spend time with his grandchildren whom he adored and was so proud of each of them.(Cassandra Smith, Andrew Smith, Liberty Krug, and Levi Krug)

Larry was a giving man, volunteering his time in a variety of avenues. He spent many hours as a score-keeper at Orchard Mesa Little League, he was a cub scout leader, a neighborly man always available for a friend in need, often putting his skill of welding to the task. He was a Christian man, involved with many churches over the years. He acted as treasurer and landscaper at A House For His Name. 

In his most recent years, he enjoyed spending time on his Harley Davidson motorcycle and making friends along the way, being embraced by the Grand Junction HOG group. He was the friend that could be counted on with the courage to act. 

Larry peacefully went to heaven on April 14, 2023 surrounded by his family. His spirit was freed from the constraints of his health. He was predeceased by his parents, and his brother, Terry. He is survived by his wife, Deborah, his children, Lisa (Matt) Smith and Paul (Megan) Krug, his brother, Jerry Krug, his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and his Aunt Shirley Krug.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00, Monday, June 19, 2023 at Riverbend Park in Palisade, Colorado.  Please come as you would, ready to join him for a visit on the back deck. You are encouraged to bring a written memory you'd like to share. 

Thank you for helping us to plan for how many will be attending this event by visiting https://forms.gle/jxjegf3nUEgePz3q6

His family would like to thank the caring staff of Hopewest Hospice, and Dr. Alkes and staff. Services provided by Brown's.