Long time Crane rancher Gene Krueger passed away April 26 at Harney District Hospital.  Gene was born in Burns on August 29, 1924 to August and Bernice Krueger.  Gene spent his whole life in Harney County except for his service in the Philippines during WW 2. In 1948 Gene along with his brother Hollis purchased the ranch he would remain on until 1973 when he moved to the Sitz place.  There he stayed raising cattle, shooting squirrels through the screens on the windows and flying kites.  Gene was a gifted fabricator making useful items out of what ever he had in his shop or iron pile. Being a bachelor he had very close relationships with his three nieces and nephew.  Many, many fond memories are shared of the great adventures with Uncle Gene.  What a wonderful time we had when we went to stay with him. Gene is survived by his sister Sherill (Hank) Yates, Burns, nieces Sandra (David ) Faul, West Linn, Or., Sissy (Randy) Mills, Burns, Karen (Gerald) Steele, Vale, nephew Jeff (Joyce) Krueger, Canyon City and sister-in-law Florence Krueger, Burns, as well as great nephews Rod and Ryan Steele, Patrick Mills, Jesse Krueger and great nieces Lynda Haakenson and Shana O'Keefe. Gene was preceded in death by his parents Bernice and Gus, his brother Hollis and several of his Crane buckaroo buddies. A very special thanks to Fran and staff of the Sunshine House for the excellent care for the last two years and the wonderful nurses of the Harney District Hospital. Gene lived the good life in wide open spaces with fresh spring water, good clean air, some of the very best neighbors and friends and a family that loved him.  He was wealthy in the things that make life matter.  At his request there will be no funeral services, his ashes will be scattered at his ranch at a later date.  In lieu of donations or flowers, catch a fish or rope a calf in his honor.