Kimberly "Kim" Dunbar, age 60, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Avantara Milbank.  Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, Watertown, SD.  Pastor Dan Overbo will officiate.  

Visitation will be held prior to the funeral service on Friday at the church starting at 1:00 p.m. Active pallbearers will be Dwight Kruse, Steve Kruse, Lyle Kruse, DJ Davis, John Wilde and Ryan Hust.

Kimberly “Kim” Dunbar was born on December 9, 1964, to Gordon and Susan Kruse in Canby, MN. Kimberly’s childhood was spent on the family dairy farm, where at a young age, her kindness was first seen. She spent time with the pigs and attending to the sows and piglets. After school and her chores were done Kim was riding horses.

Kim had a sense of adventure, and one of her greatest loves was riding her motorcycle. Whether on long trips or taking a little cruise around town, Kim felt a sense of freedom on her motorcycle that was unparalleled. Many fond memories were made during these motorcycle rides, with Kim always leading the way.

Kim’s greatest joy was her family. She adored her grandchildren and often spoke of them with the deepest affection. Her heart was large enough for not only her immediate family but also everyone fortunate enough to know her. Kimberly’s generosity and kindness knew no bounds. Whether she was offering a shoulder to lean on or sharing a laugh, she had an uncanny ability to make others feel valued and loved. Her love for her family was unconditional, and she treasured the time spent with her grandchildren.

Kim was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Her love was seen with her unshakable dedication to her family. Kim always had open arms to any child, grandchild, or friend needing compassion.

Kim is survived by her husband, Tracy Dunbar, of Watertown, SD; parents, Gordon and Susan Kruse, of Canby, MN; two sons, Mike Norton, of Sioux Falls, SD, and Tony (Nikki) Norton, of Watertown, SD; two daughters, Amanda (Jesse) Nelson of Marshall, MN, and Stacey (Jess) Dunbar, of Watertown, SD; two stepdaughters, Mary (DJ) Davis, of Virgil, SD, and Rosanna Mahrt, of Box Elder, SD; one sister, Tami Trulley, of Roscoe, IL; one brother, Bill Kruse, of Canby, MN; 22 grandchildren, and many friends.

Kim was preceded in death by her baby sister; paternal grandparents, Martin and Ella Kruse; maternal grandparents, Donald and Marie Benson; uncle Harlan Benson, uncles Roy and Birdie Kruse, Leonard Kruse, Cletus and Sharon Kruse, cousins Anna Kruse and Melissa Benson, and godmother, Helen Kruse.

A special thanks to the staff at Avantera Milbank and the Milbank area Avera at home hospice for the care they have given her.

 Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com Watertown and Hayti