Written by
Dee Loflin, SMT Manager/Writer
Dexter, Missouri – The extraordinary 18 FORE Life weekend is fast approaching and it begins each year with a banquet to dedicate the memory of Ben Kruse, who together with his brother, Scott, and some friends, wanted to do something good to genuinely help people in need.
When Ben’s life was cut short in August of 2004 in a tragic accident, his work was carried on through his brother and all who came together on that first weekend in June, twelve years ago. The purpose of renewing friendships and raising money for cancer patients soon became what will be this year's 1 millionth dollars in love offerings given to families fighting cancer. Truly amazing!
Friday, May 31st the doors will open at 4:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge with a dinner at 6:00 p.m. Each year more people attend and each year more money is raised. This year's event is sold out and the golf tournament is at it's capacity.
Guest speakers will be Becky Dennington and Ed Hearn with entertainment by The BUZZ! Chad Gaylord will raise his glass and toast to Ben Kruse. The live auction will follow. “Ben would be so proud to see his friends reunite. He would have loved this!” stated Scott Kruse.
Three years ago Chad and a friend canoed down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers from Jefferson City to attend the banquet. This year Chad and his wife, Nikki road their bikes down from Jefferson City to honor Ben and arrived at Sonny's around 1:30 p.m. today. They epitomize the spirit that surrounds what we are doing," stated Scott Kruse.
The following day will be the Ben Kruse 18 FORE Life Charity Golf Event held at Hidden Trails Country Club with tee times of 7:00 a.m. and 1 p.m. with a 4 person scramble, silent auction and dinner to follow.
Someone fighting cancer will utilize love offerings from the money raised, as the financial burdens can be overwhelming to those undergoing treatment.
We thank Scott and Kerri Kruse for all of your hard work, dedication, and the tremendous efforts of bringing hope to so many in our community. Celebrate/Give/Remember
