Jacob Harrison Cruse, 20, known fondly as Jake, passed away at 10:12pm Saturday, May 29th, at his home.
He was born on Oct. 23, 1989 in Peoria, IL. to Tari L. Cruse. He fought valiantly for three years with Gardners' Syndrome, a disease which also took the shortened lives of both his sister, Katie, and mother, Tari, in 2005 and 2008, respectively.
He is survived by two uncles, Scott (Beth) Cruse and Lyle (Debbie) Cruse, both of Morton, IL., two aunts, Jill (Perry) Crawford of Groveland, IL., Robin (Chip) Cruse-Curnow of Gulfport, FL., nine cousins, and four second-cousins.
He was a member of Morton High School class of 2008, where he was active in Madrigals and chorus. He attended both Grace Church in Morton and Oak Grove Bible Church in East Peoria. He lived for a short time in Gulfport, FL., touching the lives of all he met.
Having been at both his sister and mother's bedsides, he was only too familiar with what his own future held. Yet, he faced his disease with a courage, determination and fierceness that belied his young age. He touched the lives of all who met him and his smiles and laughter left very deep impressions in the hearts of us all. His favorite Bible verse is a good reminder to all of us: Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Cremation rites have been accorded. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 1st at 7:00 p.m. at Grace Church in Morton, IL. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers Jake requested that all memorials be made to the Tari Cruse Nursing Scholarship for Single Parents at Morton Community Foundation, 309 N. Main Street, Suite B, Morton, IL., 61550