Shannah Christene Kruse

Shannah Christene Kruse (nee Kranz) passed away on October 11, 2026, after a brave battle with cancer with her beloved and loving husband, Justin, her mother Ginny, her son Taylor, brother Nick and step-sister Katey by her side along with other family and friends. Shannah was a spirited and fun loving woman who strongly embraced life and loved her family and friends very deeply. Shannah was a rabid fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers and loved to cook for game viewing gatherings with friends and family.

Shannah was born on March 24, 1971, at Wausau Hospital. She graduated from D.C. Everest High School in 1989 and then earned a degree in Accounting at North Central Technical School in 1992. Throughout her work career she worked for former Congressman Dave Obey, Graebel Van Lines, she and Justin owned the Kruse Inn and she bartended at various Wausau are establishments.

Shannah was preceded in death by her father, Ken Kranz and her grandparents Ronald and Virginia Garner and Wilbur and June Kranz all of Wausau. She is survived by her husband of 24 years, Justin Kruse. Her son Taylor Knutson, wife Sierra, all of Wausau. Her Mother, Ginny Garner-Gerhardt of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Her brother Nick Summers, his wife Nicki and their daughters Nicolina and Nicolaya, also of Myrtle Beach. Her step-sister Katey Bluel, her husband Brett and children Juno, Stella, Tobie and Hazel of Madison. Shannah is also survived by her half-brothers Zac Kranz and Aaron Kania of Wausau and her step-father Don Gerhardt of Hawthorne, Wisconsin.

Shannah and Justin were greatly aided and comforted throughout Shannah's chemotherapy and radiation treatments by the outstanding staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. They also were comforted by their loving pets. Please consider adopting a rescue pet or contributing to an animal shelter in Shannah's name.

Shannah did not want a funeral, so a Celebration of her Life will be held in Spring of 2027. Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee, is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.