On April 1, 2026, the world became a little dimmer as we lost one of the best people to ever walk the earth. Ronald Kevin Krut of Alpine, known to many as Captain Ron, passed away in El Paso, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and laughter.

Born in Rhinebeck, New York, on January 3, 1952, to Ronald Kenemouth and Margaery Krut, Ron immediately following high school answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He trained as an Air Traffi c Controller, a role that required the same steady hand and calm demeanor he would carry throughout his life. He served with great pride aboard the USS Kitty Hawk in 1972, a formative time that shaped his character and instilled in him a deep sense of duty and camaraderie.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Ron continued his dedication to aviation safety as a civilian air traffic controller with the FAA. His career took him to towers across Georgia and Florida. Of all his assignments, he most loved his time working the town in Key West, a place that perfectly matched his vibrant spirit and love for the coastal life.

It was in 1996 that Ron met his wife, Emmy. Together, they eventually made their way to Alpine, where they opened a bakery- café that would become a cornerstone of the community. The success of The Bread and Breakfast was due in large part to Ron’s warmth and his remarkable ability to bring people together. Whether behind the counter or out in the dining room, Ron turned customers into friends and friends into family.

A true Renaissance man, Ron’s interests were as vast as the horizons he navigated. He was an adventurer at heart, once cycling across the country, and a lover of the sea who found peace while diving, snorkeling, and captaining the many boats he owned throughout his retirement. He had a deep appreciation for the finer things in life-good food, old musicals, and a perfectly chosen hat.

Ron is survived by his wife Emmy; his son Kevin Krut and his wife Shannon; and his three daughters, Theresa Cooper and her husband Kirk, Kara Norderum Krut, and Thjodie Nadon-Debruyn. He also leaves behind his sisters, Edna Rose and Grace Whalen; his brother Cliff Krut and his wife Denise; seven grandchildren whom he loved so dearly; and many nieces and nephews who all cherished their “Uncle Ron,” and many good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Margaery.

While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the memory of Ron’s sharp wit, his adventurous soul, and the knowledge that his impact will be felt for generations to come.

A memorial service to celebrate Ron’s incredible life will be planned in the near future. Details will be shared with family and friends once they are finalized.

In honor of Ron’s generous spirit and his service to his country, please consider performing a random act of kindness or making a donation to a veterans’ charity of your choice in his memory.