Connie Lou Krueger, 57, died at her home on Friday, May 11, 2012, of complications of pneumonia.

Connie was born on Feb. 22, 1955, to parents Calvin and Phyllis (Nemitz) Heydt. She was a loving sister to Nancy (Dick) Nelson of Charles City, Iowa, Garth (Karen) Heydt of Hutchinson, Minn., and Jodi Heydt of Austin, Minn., and loving aunt to numerous nieces and nephews. Connie lived in Sargeant, Minn., for two years before moving to Austin, Minn. where she graduated high school in 1973. She attended Rochester Community College and graduated with a nursing degree. She worked as a registered nurse at St. Marys Hospital in neurology for 34 years before retiring in 2010.

On June 21, 1980, Connie married Rickey G. Krueger at Homestead United Methodist Church in Rochester. He survives. The couple made their home in Wabasha, Minn., until moving to Rochester in 1981. They remained residents of Rochester until her death.

Connie was an ardent caregiver and lover of animals of all kinds. She was devoted to her family and career and constantly put the needs of others above her own. Connie had a beautiful and generous spirit that she willingly shared with all who entered her life. She will be dearly missed.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Steven. Visitation will be held in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, from 5 to 8 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Autumn Ridge Church in Rochester on Wednesday, May 16, 2012, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. C. John Steer officiating. Visitation will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens.

Memorials are preferred to Paws and Claws.

Macken Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. On-line condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com