Kim J. Krueger, a devoted family man, lifelong rancher, respected Navy veteran, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2024, at age 88, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories among friends and family. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Laramie, Kim enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school, serving honorably as a Radarman aboard various ships during the Korean War. After his service, he returned to Laramie to pursue higher education at the University of Wyoming on the G.I. Bill, earning a degree in Animal Husbandry in 1961.
In 1960, Kim married Laural Sutherland, and together they welcomed two children, Kelly Kay and Kortney Max. The family managed a successful cattle ranch, Double K Ranches Inc., while actively engaging in local organizations such as 4-H, the McFadden School Board, and the Wyoming Stock Growers Association.
In 1973, the Krueger family moved their business to Wheatland, where they expanded into the feedlot industry. Kim’s leadership extended beyond ranching as he served on the Board of Directors for the Bank of Laramie and spent 14 years in the Wyoming Legislature, where he was a passionate advocate for the livestock industry.
His dedication to agriculture and public service earned him a position on the Advisory Committee for the Secretary of Agriculture during the Nixon administration. He also served on the University of Wyoming Foundation’s Board of Directors. Upon retirement, Kim and Laural relocated to Green Valley, Arizona, in 1993. While Kim was a true cowboy, he enjoyed desert lifestyle and traveling with his wife of 64 years. He continued serving his community, contributing to organizations such as St. Andrew’s Children’s Clinic, the Tubac Center of the Arts and serving as a past president and member of the Mountain Oyster Club.
Kim was predeceased by his sister Kise in 2017 and his daughter Kelly in 2021. He is survived by his loving wife, Laural, his son Kortney, daughter-in-law Damhnait, and two grandchildren, Keeva and Max. Kim’s legacy of service, devotion to his family, and passion for his community will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
