Louis W. Krue III

Louis “Lou” W. Krue III, 88, of Cumberland, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous, years-long battle with cancer. He was the beloved husband of Loraine (Korte) Krue, with whom he shared 66 wonderful years of marriage, devotion, and partnership.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Lou was the cherished son of the late Louis and Gladys (Shenot) Krue. A gifted student and problem-solver, he earned his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Cincinnati.

Lou dedicated the majority of his professional career to Colgate-Palmolive, serving with distinction in management until his retirement in 1995. Known for his work ethic, leadership, and integrity, he earned the respect of his colleagues and industry peers throughout his many decades of service.

A man of deep Catholic faith and community conviction, Lou was a longtime, devoted parishioner of Saint John Vianney Church in Cumberland. He served as the parish's financial administrator for ten years and was an active member of both the Knights of Columbus and the Men’s Club. Lou lived his values daily, believing firmly in sharing his good fortune through generous support of numerous charitable causes.

Lou was an avid model railroading enthusiast, a lifelong hobby that brought him immense joy and creative satisfaction. In their retirement, Lou and Loraine cherished the opportunity to travel together, exploring new destinations side by side. Above all, Lou’s greatest joy was his family; he relished gathering his family to celebrate milestones and create lasting memories.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, Kathleen (Steve) Schmitz, Louis (Laura) Krue IV, Denise (Chip) Krue, Brian (Nancy) Krue, and Teresa (Matthew) Hughes; his sister, Patricia Leonard, twelve grandchildren Timothy (TJ), Josh, Cassie, Brianna, Jen, Alex, Tori, Kaitlin, Brendan, Jonathan, Samuel, and Caden and fourteen great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Saint John Vianney Church, 3609 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland. The burial will be private. 

Visiting hours Friday, September 11th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM in the O’Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to Saint John Vianney Century Club or the Greater New England Chapter of the National MS Society, in memory of Lou, would be greatly appreciated.