Jerry Kruckenberg

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jerald “Jerry” Lynn Kruckenberg, age 64, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on April 24, 2026, at his home.

Jerry was born on December 11, 1961, in Medicine Lodge, Kansas, to Gene Kruckenberg and Sharon (Hindman) Knoll. He was later raised by his mother and father, Richard Knoll.

He attended Enid High School and went on to further his education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, Oklahoma, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Education. He also pursued studies in ministry. Jerry spent much of his life serving as both a pastor and an educator, roles he took great pride in. He most recently taught at Webb City High School, where he dedicated 18 years before retiring in 2021.

Jerry was a man of strong convictions. His faith was an important part of his life, and he cared deeply about sharing the message of Jesus and serving others through ministry.

He loved traveling and created once in a lifetime memories by taking his children and grandchildren on many trips. He was also skilled at building and took pride in his work as a drafter. Jerry had a big, unforgettable laugh that will be remembered by those who knew him.

He was previously married to Tammy Bell, with whom he shared two daughters, Amanda Cramer and Amber Lucero. He later married Laurenda Ferguson, and together they had two daughters, Angel Miller and Hannah Kruckenberg.

Jerry made his home in Joplin, Missouri, where he spent many years teaching and building his life.

He is survived by his daughters: Amanda Cramer of Joplin, Missouri; Angel Miller and her husband Trey Miller of Nevada, Missouri; and Hannah Kruckenberg of Springfield, Missouri; and his son-in-law Ben Lucero.

He is also survived by his mother, Sharon Knoll; his father, Richard Knoll; his brother, Wesley and Kama Kruckenberg of Edmond, Oklahoma; and his sister, Robin and J.R. Kopf of Alva, Oklahoma.

Jerry was preceded in death by his biological father, Gene Kruckenberg; his daughter, Amber Lucero; his sister, Brenda Newman; and his nephews, Kyle Newman and Alex Kopf.

He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: KateLynn Heartmen, Clayton Lucero, Jamie Cramer, Jymie lucero, Abbigail Cramer , Lauren Bain, Ledger Miller, Lydia Bain, Lailee Miller, and Jordyn Kruckenberg.

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: AdaLynn Kay, Zahmir Maison, Samariah Liz, and Eyzic James, along with several nieces and nephews.

Jerry will be remembered for his strong spirit, his laughter, his faith, and the memories he created with those he loved.

Inurnment to be announced..