He did so by keeping busy with his seven children and their lives, watching his favorite TV shows, traveling with son Danny and cheering on Notre Dame with his sons and sons-in-law.
I had the opportunity of visiting him once a month for more than four years, helping with housecleaning, but more importantly having chat sessions for an hour or two and just being Kelly. I loved listening to his awesome stories of being in the Navy, courting his beautiful Joanie, his career at Eli Lilly and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. For a few hours a month I felt like I was back in time – listening to some of his and Joanie’s favorite albums.
My Nick was diagnosed with bone cancer so visits moved from his home to Kindred Healthcare facility, where he received great care.
Our last visit was June 1, and I got him his favorite dish – a shrimp cocktail from Red Lobster. He enjoyed every single one. I’m going to miss him terribly, but knowing he’s dancing with his Joanie gives my heart peace.
I will cherish my beautiful purple clematis plants every time they bloom (they were purchased with money Nick gave me on my 49th birthday), our awesome talks, but mostly his humor. For old times’ sake, “Kiss my grits!” God bless my friend. Love, your “Little Pepper Pot.” XXOO.
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H. Nick Kreuzman, 89, Indianapolis, passed away Thursday, June 9, 2016. He was born in Batesville, Ind., Dec. 1, 1926, to Harry and Cecilia Voltz Kreuzman. Nick was a graduate of Cathedral High School and attended Wisconsin University. He served in the Navy during World War II and was employed at Eli Lilly and Co. for 38 years, retiring in 1988 as a supervisor of heating and air conditioning.
Nick was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Marie Dippel Kreuzman. He is survived by his daughters, Kathy J. Wilson, Linda M. Kreuzman and Bethann Wright; sons, David, Danny, John and Mark Kreuzman; 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated Monday at St. Mark Catholic Church. Daniel F. O’Riley Funeral Home handled the arrangements.