Beth Bryant Kroeger

Beth Bryant Kroeger, 74, of Lake Forest, Illinois passed away on March 6, 2025 in the comfort of her home. Beth was a devoted Grandmother, Mother, St Barth’s expert, Dog Lover, Hockey Mom and the biggest fan of McDonald’s Chocolate Chip cookies. She is leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and unapologetic joy in life’s simple pleasures. Beth embraced life with a fearless—sometimes combative—spirit and a heart that knew no bounds. Whether she was soaking up the sun in St. Barth’s, indulging in a perfectly cooked steak, or simply enjoying the view from her magnificent backyard, she lived with an authenticity that inspired everyone around her. She started most mornings with a large Coke (extra ice) and a McDonald’s chocolate chip cookie, a tradition lovingly upheld first by her father, Jack Miller, and later by her husband, Fritz. She ended most days with a chilled glass of Chardonnay, also with extra ice. In between, she found joy in her work, spending years at Marshall Fields in downtown Lake Forest, IL, and later at Mattie M in Hubbard Woods, IL, where she built cherished lifelong friendships. Beth’s grandkids knew that time with Grandma meant extra presents, extra hugs, and extra love. A true hockey mom, she spent years shuttling her children to countless rinks and tournaments and later became her grandchildren’s fiercest supporter in the stands. Beth was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jack and Rose Alice Miller, as well as her son, Kevin, with whom she shared a particularly close bond. We hope Beth is now reunited with them, pictured with her above, in a place of peace and love. She is survived by her beloved husband, Henry “Fritz” Kroeger, her step-son Kevin (Susan), her son Matthew, and her adoring grandchildren: Henry, Ellie, William, Maddie, and Jack. She is also survived by her loving sister, Beverly Walquist, who was an instrumental caregiver in Beth’s final years, providing unwavering support, love, and companionship. Beth’s niece, Cari, was also a devoted caregiver, offering kindness and comfort in ways that words cannot fully capture. Their dedication and love meant the world to Beth and will always be remembered with deep gratitude. A lifelong dog lover, Beth shared her home with many four-legged best friends over the years, including an Irish Setter named Shawn, a zany Black Lab named Whitney, and five wonderful Golden Retrievers: Samantha, Bandit, Natalie, Hurly, and finally, Cody, who never left her side in the twilight months of her life. Beth leaves behind a lifetime of friends and family who will forever cherish her laughter, love, and countless memories. A celebration of Beth’s life will be held from 2pm – 5pm on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at the Gorton Center, 400 East Illinois Road, Lake Forest, Illinois. For more information, contact Reuland & Turnbough Funeral Directors of Lake Forest at (847) 234-9649 or www.RTfunerals.com .

Beth Bryant Kroeger

January 2, 1951 - March 6, 2025