Lawrence (Larry) Krueger

Lawrence (Larry) Michael Krueger of Cumming, GA, passed away suddenly at Northside Hospital Atlanta on Monday, September 29th at the age of 88 from a rapid onset of pneumonia, while recovering from back surgery.

Born on August 18th, 1937 in New York City to Lillian and Walter Krueger, Larry earned his Doctorate of Philosophy Degree in Industrial Psychology from Purdue University in 1967, while raising a young family. Married to Joyce Blaho on June 17th, 1961. Larry had his first child Amy in 1963, later joined by Walter in 1968. His passion for understanding the behaviors of consumers led him to a career in marketing and marketing research. He led marketing innovations as an executive vice president for companies like Burger King, KFC, Arby’s and lastly with Popeyes Chicken gaining numerous accolades from his industry.

His hobbies of woodworking and home improvement would come in handy with establishing craft stores that Joyce operated, and later the preschool center they owned together during his retirement. An avid reader, fan of British television and travel, were passions that Larry loved to share with friends and family and were the pastimes that filled his days after the loss of his beloved wife Joyce, whom he cared for during her final years of life.

Throughout his life, Larry was known for his generous heart giving freely to both to numerous charities and family members, without being asked. Larry may have been a man of few words, but his sharp wit was legendary to colleagues, friends and family alike.

Larry is survived by his daughter Amy Vitak and son-in-law Mark, their twins Lillian and Shane, the loves of Larry's life; his son Walter Krueger and daughter-in-law Denise; Larry’s brother William Krueger and his wife Susan Krueger; his sister Karen Altman and her husband Steven; and sister-in-law Arlene Dellin and her husband Ted. 

A celebration of his life will be held at the Hilton Alpharetta (5775 Windward Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30005) on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 2:00 pm. Donations in honor of Larry’s life, in lieu of flowers, may be made to The Place in Cumming GA (https://www.theplacega.org/).