Wayne Rudolph “Chief” Krug, 80, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Friday, December 13, 2024 at the Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.
Wayne was born February 11, 1944 in Russell, Kansas. He was one of four children to Rudolph C. and Lorraine I. (Muth) Krug. He grew up in Russell County and graduated from Russell High School in the Class of 1962. He then attended Emporia State University before returning home to farm with his father on the family farm south of Russell.
Wayne was a farmer and rancher most of his life. He was very proud of his family’s heritage. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and was confirmed at Bender Hill Lutheran Church. He enjoyed watching sports, especially KU Basketball, KSU Football and the Kansas City Chiefs. In his younger years, he participated in league bowling and often hosted pitch parties and fish frys. Wayne loved being outdoors fishing, hunting, gardening and cruising the farm in his ranger with his dog, Leah. He enjoyed butchering and making sausage every year following the family secret recipe, which included hanging it in the smoke house for several hours. Most of all, Wayne loved family gatherings and attending his grandson’s sporting events and activities.
Wayne’s surviving family include his daughter, Darci Baker (Randy) of Russell, Kansas; sisters, Juanita Flegler of Russell, Kansas and Shirley Arnhold of Russell, Kansas; two grandsons, Austin W. Bachar and Brandon D. Bachar; faithful 4-legged companion, Leah; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Vernon Krug; grandson, Joshua Bachar; and brother-in-laws, Melvin Flegler and Ben Arnhold.
Celebration of Life Services will be held at 10.30 AM, Thursday, December 19, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, with the family present to greet friends from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, a Memorial has been established with Russell Rough Riders. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler, who is in charge of these arrangements.