Gordon “Fred” Cruickshank, 70, of Laramie passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at Ivinson Memorial Hospital. Fred was a Laramie native born on May 26, 1948 to Robert and Rose Cruickshank. He was raised in Medicine Bow, and graduated from Lander High School. Fred was drafted into the Vietnam War where he served in the US Army. Later, on May 28, 1971 he married the love of his life; Gwen Holland in Basin Wyoming.
Fred was a true outdoors man who loved hunting, fishing, and camping. He was also an avid gun enthusiast and loved to spend time at the rifle range. He was known for trying to fix any and all things, which went hand in hand with his work at WyoTech. Fred worked for WyoTech for 37 ½ years, working his way up to Director of Automotive Training. He retired in 2009.
Fred is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers; James Edwin and Robert Alan Cruickshank. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years Gwen, their sons James Shane (Keryl) Cruickshank and Robert William (Jessie) Cruickshank. He is further survived by his five grandchildren; Cindy, Michael, Carlene, Steven and Nathan; and six great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 22, 2019 at Montgomery Stryker Funeral Home, with military honors. A reception will follow at WyoTech West Campus, 1889 Venture Drive, Northwest Corner of the EMS Shop.
In lieu of flowers the family would ask for donations to the Blinded Veterans Association www.bva.org, 125 N. West Street, 3rd Floor Alexandria, VA 22314
I started first grade with Fred. I hunted, fished, played baseball, basketball and kick the can and flew model airplanes and participated in scouting with him and his brothers. He was a friend of mine for soo many years. We had a lot of fun together. Vernon Wayne Scott was a part of all that. We grew up together. His brothers,parents and grandfather also were part of the group that was the community of Medicine Bow and I knew them well. He appreciated good friends, family, telling stories, hunting , fishing and enjoying life. I have also enjoyed knowing Gwen his wife. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. But,I know that I will see you again another time my good friend. Farewell for now. Sorry this is so late/I just found out about it.
To the Cruikshank family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Working with Fred at WyoTech was one of those really good experiences, and he brightened up my day on many occasions with his kindness and stories. I know he will be greatly missed. Jaye Kraft
Gwen, my heartfelt condolences on the loss of Fred. Despite his gruff exterior was a heart of gold, a warm smile and a fine sense of humor. We'll all miss him.
To the Cruickshank family, So sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed visiting with Fred. In this day and age, 70 is still young, Fred went "home" too soon. My thoughts and prayers to Gwen and all the family. Be strong, Fred will always be in our hearts and memories. Another Wrangler rides off into the sunset. Rest In Peace. Cliff and the Smith family.
Gwen and family, I am very sad to learn you have lost Fred. He was always one of the shining stars for the short time I was employed at Wyo Tech back in 1977. Always very friendly and cordial to all. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.