Jerry Gene "Hops" Krause

Jerry Gene “Hops” Krause

9/15/1940 – 5/6/2026

Jerry Gene “Hops” Krause was born on September 15, 1940, in Echo, Minnesota, to Everette and Hazel (Fossum) Krause. He became affectionately known as “Hops” after his second granddaughter, unable to say “Grandpa,” began calling him “Hops.” The nickname quickly stuck and became the name so many family and friends knew and loved him by. He was the oldest of four children and grew up in Belview, Minnesota, where he graduated from Belview High School in 1958. After high school, Jerry attended Mankato Vocational School in Mankato, Minnesota, earning his Accounting Graduate Certificate. Following graduation, he moved to Minneapolis to begin what would become a successful and respected career. Jerry owned businesses and rental properties and built an incredible career in accounting within the automotive industry. In 1989, Jerry and his family made Bloomington, Minnesota their home, where he lived for the remainder of his life.

In 1966, Jerry married Cheryle (Leak) Krause. Together they built a beautiful family and shared nearly 60 years of marriage. They raised five children and were blessed with 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Jerry was a proud and dedicated father and grandfather who was always present.

Jerry had a lifelong love of sports. From coaching his children's youth teams, to attending his grandchildren's games, to faithfully following Minnesota sports, especially the Twins, he was a true fan through and through. He was also known for his sharp mind and love of numbers, often doing calculations faster than a calculator itself. In his free time, Jerry loved listening to bluegrass music and watching westerns, which he referred to as his “cowboys” Above all, Jerry will be remembered for his loyalty, dedication to his family, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.

Jerry passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at The Lakehouse Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryle (Leak) Krause; his children, Timothy Krause of New Market, Michelle Perkins (Allen) of Houston, Texas, Sheila Barry (Ronald) of Bloomington, Jeffrey Krause (Jessica) of Columbia Heights, and Jason Krause (Kari) of Prior Lake; 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; his brother, Rick Krause of California; two nieces; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everette, and Hazel Krause; his sister, Faye (Dwight) Angrimson; his brother, Kenny (Peggy) Krause; and his daughter-in-law, Lisa Krause.

A Celebration of Life for Jerry Krause, age 85, will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Bryant Avenue Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service. Friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate Jerry’s life.