It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Kurt RJ Krause of Torrington, formally a long-time resident of Bethlehem. He passed away in his sleep after a lengthy battle with Kidney failure. He succumbed to his disease at 2:29pm on 10/08/2024 at Charlottle Hungerford hospital. He was only 68 years young.

Kurt was born April 3, 1956, at Bridgeport Hospital to Robert J Krause and Carmela C Krause (Zingo), both deceased. He attended Nonnewaug Highschool and once graduated tried numerous jobs including Southbury Training School until he found Afco Lycoming. He would remain there for 20+ years working at the same company as his father Robert. When Afco closed he would dabble in other jobs such as LTL driver and EMT. Eventually he found work he liked being a night security guard and a Kmart stocker. He always said he preferred the night shift, less stress. He would remain at Kmart for many years until he retired at 62.

In 1978 Kurt met and Married Lisa DuBail. They had 2 children Diane Krause and Dustin Krause- later Gilbert. Kurt is survived by his ex-wife Lisa Gilbert of Southbury and his daughter Diane Krause of Southbury. He was predeceased by his son Dustin Gilbert September 9, 2013.

Kurt spent much of his free time hunting, fishing and camping. He loved spending time at his land in New Hampshire on the Canadian border on his vacations before its sale in 2020 due to his failing health. He was a faithful believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and was an ordained pastor but never practiced.

For years he helped to take care of his mother Carmela after his father Robert passed away January 7, 2002 until her passing on August 6 of 2022. Kurt loved his family especially his daughter Diane Krause, who later became a strong advocate for Kurt's rights and happiness both in and out of the Nursing facility. After Carmela passed away Kurt spent the last 2 years of his life as a resident at Wolcott Hall Nursing and Rehab facility on Field Street in Torrington battling numerous ailments that did not allow him to live independently.

Kurt will be cremated, and the Urn burial will be held at New North Cemetery. Funeral Services were provided by Munson Lovetere Funeral Home. There are no Memorial Services per his wishes.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com