Kenneth E "Ken" Kroger

Kenneth E. Kroger, age 91, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away on June 12, 2026, in the city where he was born and spent his life surrounded by the people and places he loved.

He was born on October 22, 1934, in Mishawaka, Indiana, to the late Leo Kroger and Mary (Takace) Kroger. Kenneth grew up in Mishawaka and was a proud graduate of Mishawaka High School, Class of 1953. He carried the values of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance throughout his life, and those qualities were evident in everything he did.

Kenneth devoted more than 32 years of his career to GTE, also known as General Telephone & Electronics Corporation, where he served as operations manager. He was respected for his steady leadership, strong work ethic, and dependable nature. His long career reflected the same commitment and responsibility that guided him in all areas of life.

Outside of work, Kenneth enjoyed a full and active life. He loved to fish and hunt, and he especially enjoyed riding his bicycle. Staying active was important to him, and he found satisfaction in simple, hands-on pursuits. He was also a very good handyman and took great pride in building his own house, later adding a garage to it himself. His skill, determination, and practical abilities were admired by those who knew him best.

Family was central to Kenneth’s life. He was first married to Beverly (Stahl) Kroger on August 30, 1961, in Mishawaka, and they shared many years together until her passing on February 10, 2016. He later married Betty (Shake) Kroger on October 14, 2017, and remained devoted to her until her passing. He was a loving father to Jeffrey Kroger and was preceded in death by his daughter, Angela Kroger. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert Takace.

A time to visit with the family will be Thursday, June 18th, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. A service will immediately follow, starting at noon. All being held at Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel, 3910 N. Main St., Mishawaka, IN 46545. Pastor Wyatt Smith will officiate the services. A private burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery at a later date. Please leave condolences for Ken at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com 

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