“Happy are those that dream dreams, and have the courage to make them come true.”
Verlen kruger
VERLEN KRUGER MEMORIAL
Verlen Kruger Memorial is located on the banks of the Grand River at Thompson Field in Portland, Michigan. The lifesized statue of Verlen was designed by artist Derek Rainey. Through countless hours and many hands, the completion of the Verlen Kruger Memorial and dedication took place in 2010. The original Verlen Kruger Memorial Committee consisted of the following individuals: Mark Przedwojewski, Dan Smith, Stacy Smith Krause, Kevin Krause, Mike Smith, Kathy Lischkge, Joann Proctor and Mike Leyrer. Many volunteers were involved in various levels of support over the years, but two more were instrumental in the continual upkeep of the memorial, Mike Doty and Kevin Schneider.
VERLEN KRUGER AWARD
The Verlen Kruger Award is awarded annually at the Quiet Adventures Symposium in East Lansing, Michigan.
CANOER’S MEMORIAL MONUMENT
In 2005, Verlen Kruger’s name was enshrined on the Michigan Canoe Racing Association Canoer’s Memorial Monument. The monument is located along the River Road National Forest Scenic Byway with a view of Cooke Pond, Au Sable River in Iosco County near Oscoda, Michigan.
