John David Krugler died peacefully on June 20, 2026, in Brookfield, WI, at age 85 with his beloved wife Dee by his side. He was born to Fred and Marge (Westphal) Krugler in Fond du Lac, WI, on October 7, 1940. 

John fulfilled his dream of becoming an educator and historian by earning a Ph.D. from the University of IL Urbana-Champaign. He taught history for 46 years at Marquette University, where he helped create its public history program. During his long career, he published two books, English & Catholic: The Lords Baltimore in the Seventeenth Century and Creating Old World Wisconsin: The Struggle to Build an Outdoor History Museum of Ethnic Architecture. One of his passions as a professor was personal interaction with students, especially through academic advising.

In 1965, John united in marriage with the love of his life, Elgin Dee (Olson), and they recently celebrated their 61st anniversary. Together with their children David and Katie, they enjoyed vacations to historical sites across the country, attending Marquette basketball games, and gathering with extended family for summer grill-outs. John and Dee made the most of retirement by traveling to Ireland, Scotland, Germany and the Netherlands.

John will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of history, and his devotion to his family: Dee, David (Amy), Katie Pospisil (Mike), and grandchildren Megan Layton (Ryan) and Kayla Pospisil (Nic). He was preceded in death by his deeply loved stillborn grandson, Brett Pospisil.

He is survived by his siblings Kathy Stieglitz (Pete, deceased), Tom (Pam), and Bill (Christie) and numerous nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his brother Jim and Jim’s wife Glenda. 

Celebration of life will be held July 11th, 2026, at Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church, 2366 N. 80th St., with visitation from 2:30-4pm and service at 4pm, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Guesthouse of Milwaukee or to Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church.