MELINDA JEAN (SCHLAHT) KRUSE, age 57, of Luverne, passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2018, at the Sanford Luverne Hospice Cottage surrounded by family. Her diagnosis of metastatic pancreatic cancer was December 6, 2017.

   She was born April 1, 1960, in Burke, SD to Maurice and Sylvia (Iler) Schlaht.  She attended Burke Elementary and High School, active in band and chorus, graduating in 1978.  Melinda earned her Secretarial Degree from Mitchell Area Vo-Tech.  Later continuing her education at Lake Area Vo-Tech, where she obtained her Dental Assistant Degree.  Due to her health, Melinda recently resigned as General Manager for TJ Enterprises. 

   Melinda treasured her time with family and adored her children and grandchildren.  She enjoyed being around people and making them laugh. She found pleasure in playing the piano, Yahtzee, puzzles, crocheting, and reading.  Melinda will be remembered for always thinking of others before herself.  Her love, care and concern had no boundaries.  She was a member of the United Methodist Church and Order of the Eastern Star.

   Melinda is survived by her two children, Whit Kruse (Alissa Schmitt), Magnolia; and Jennifer Kruse, Adrian; three grandchildren, Aliyah, Dominic and Olivia; mother, Sylvia Schlaht, Burke, SD; four siblings, Maurie (Cheryl Hoffart) Schlaht, Jr., Gregory, SD; Gregg (Joan) Schlaht, Lockhart, TX; Brenda (Arlyn) Klundt, Lead, SD; and Jody (Pat) O’Brien, Okoboji, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her father; Maurice Schlaht Sr.; and a niece.

   A memorial service will be Friday at 10 am at the United Methodist Church, in Luverne, officiated by Pastor Theodora K. Hall. A time of fellowship will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. A memorial service will also be Friday at 5 pm at the United in Faith Methodist Church in Burke, SD. A private family service will be at a later date at the Herrick Cemetery in Herrick, SD.

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