James Ross Krueck, 59 of Raleigh passed away suddenly while hiking in his beloved Appalachian Mountains on Friday, April 16, 2010.
Jim was the eldest son of Jean Roughton (Jamestown) and the late Dick Krueck (Greensboro). He was born in Charlotte, NC on November 21, 1950.
Jim grew up in Greensboro and was a graduate Grimsley High School and the University of NC State. He was self-employed and a man of many talents. He loved scuba diving, photography, hiking and camping. He was most happy on the trail enjoying nature and it’s Creator. Jim was a friend to all who met him; always kind and caring with an encouraging word and a wonderful sense of humor.
Jim will remain in the hearts of all who loved him: His mother, Jean Roughton, brother Jeff Krueck (wife Donnis) of Southport, NC, sister Amy Gies (husband Bob) of High Point, NC, nephew Aaron Gies (wife Katie) of Alexandria, VA, nephew Jesse Gies of High Point and niece Vera Gies of High Point as well as many wonderful friends including his former wife Claudia Krueck, daughter Shelby and his dear friend Barbara James.
Jim’s life of love and precious memories will be honored with a special service on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at 1:00 pm at Sandling Beach, Falls Lake State Recreation Area, Pavilion #6 (address) 14605, Creedmoor Rd. Wake Forest, NC 27587.
Memorial gifts may be made in honor of Jim to a Hospice of your choice for their loving service to his late father and step-father and also to The Sierra Club.
The family wishes to express their thanks to Jim’s good friends who where with him on the trail when he left this world.
Sam E. Fowlkes (Fowlkes)
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Jim's passing. He looked good and was happy when I had a conversation with him at the 40th.Jim was a fine man, always upbeat with a radiant smile. An AT backpacker myself, I know he was in his element when he pased on. Since I live 30 minutes from the AT at Wesser, NC I know Friday was a great day on the trail. In fact I was around AT backpackers last Friday at Wesser.
My hearfelt sympathy to his family on his tragic passing. My memories of Jim will live forever. Drives home the fragile condition of life on this planet .
Sam Fowlkes
Les McDaniel
Jim was a great guy. He was quick to smile, and always had a kind word for everyone. I am glad I got to see him at our reunion last November. I will never forget standing there with Ellen Dobro and talking with Jim about the Fox Run area in north Raleigh. He so enjoyed telling us a story about his house. (Jim and I were neighbors in Raleigh in the late 80's.)
Jim left this earth doing what he loved, and we must take comfort in that --- may the rest of us be so fortunate.
Les