Russell Robert Krause

Russell Robert Krause, known to all as Dusty, was born on November 29, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, to Russell and Beverly Krause. The second of seven children, he grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. He passed away unexpectedly in his apartment in Waterford, Michigan, on March 5, 2026.

From an early age, Dusty stood out as a gifted athlete. He lettered in basketball, baseball, and football at Dearborn High School and also played hockey. After graduating in 1974, he played baseball for one season at Henry Ford Community College before a sports injury ended that chapter. In 1976, he moved to California, where he worked in construction, as a security guard, and as a maintenance manager for a large shopping mall while pursuing a boxing career and maintaining a dedicated fitness routine. He returned to Michigan around 2005 and spent the rest of his working years in construction and home remodeling, later driving trucks for a moving company. He retired at age 62.

Dusty is survived by his five sisters, Bonnie (Craig) Shefferly, Judy Schoeben, Lucy (Larry) Champoux, Joyce (Richard) Harsch, and Janice (Gary) Vest; his aunts Susan (David) Gentile and Char Kuhr; and his two stepbrothers, Mac (Jen) McCormick and Scott (Brenda) Beiring. He also leaves behind nine nieces and nine nephews, fifteen great-nieces and great-nephews, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his only brother, Ronald Krause, who passed away in 2000 at the age of 39.

Dusty cherished time with his family, loved fishing, and remained an avid sports fan throughout his life. His family was especially grateful for the joyful holiday gathering hosted by his nephew Dan on January 17, 2026, where Dusty was able to see everyone and enjoy their company one last time.