Eleanor Marie Krueger

Eleanor Marie (Messer) Krueger of Caro, age 87, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Heritage Hill Assisted Living in Caro. Eleanor was born October 1, 1937 in Detroit, the daughter of the late Franz and Marie (Kliewoneit) Meihofer. She graduated from Bentley High School with the Class of 1955, and then received a Bachelor of Education from Valparaiso University in 1959.

Eleanor found love and laughter with Roy Messer and on August 13, 1960, the couple was united in marriage. Eleanor and Roy spent many joyous years together until his passing on January 30, 2002. Eleanor was blessed to discover love once again, joining in marriage with Gilbert Krueger on November 22, 2004, and cherishing their life together until his passing on August 18, 2019.

In her earlier years, Eleanor worked at Detroit Lutheran West High School, where she inspired many young lives with her love and dedication to education. After welcoming three children into the world, her passion for teaching remained strong, and she continued to share her gifts as a substitute teacher in schools throughout Michigan’s Thumb region.

As a woman of admirable faith, Eleanor was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro and the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League where she graciously shared the words and teachings of the Lord. She also spent time traveling the world and pursuing creative endeavors, including creating beautiful oil paintings and ceramics that her family and friends continue to cherish.

Eleanor’s lifelong passion was tending to her gardens. She was a member of the Caro Garden Club for thirty-eight years, including two years in which she served as president. Her gardens were a true blessing, offering yet another way for her to express her talent and creativity.

Eleanor will be remembered for her gifts of creativity, her devotion to teaching, and above all, her deep love for God, family, and friends.

Eleanor leaves to cherish her memory her children, Rochelle (Louie) Sabo of Marlette, Leslie (Wayne) McAlloon of Queensland, Australia, and Bruce Messer of Interlochen; grandchildren, Allison (Corbin) Swiastyn, Ryan (Rachel) Sabo, John McAlloon, James McAlloon, Chase (Jane) McAlloon, Ashley (Melissa) McAlloon, Zachary (Matt Aguilar) Messer, Kristen (Blane) Boitel; and ten great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husbands, Eleanor was preceded in death by her sister, Edith Albright; and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025 at St. Paul Lutheran Church In Caro with Rev. Richard Boshoven officiating. Burial will follow at Indianfields Township Cemetery in Caro. The family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Caro Garden Club, or the Valpo Guild.