Lee Cruse

Lee Cruse, 78, a retired journalist, died Monday, March 8, 2004 in Azle. Memorial Service: Thursday at White's Azle Chapel. Lee was born Jan. 14, 1926 to Thomas Milton and Ada Pearl Atnip Cruse in Bells. He served in the Navy during World War II. After graduating from the University of Texas he became a reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Later he worked in the publc relations department of Southwestern Bell, where he retired after 28 years. Lee began a second career as founder of the automotive trade magazine, Exhaust News. A longtime resident of Azle, Cruse served as chairman of the board of directors of Community Water Supply for 14 years.Survivors: Wife of 60 years, Karen Cruse; daughter, Debbie Scheebel and husband Rick, of Virginia, Donna Akins and husband Bill, of Arlington; grandchildren, Robin Mathews, Heather Akins and Brandon Akins; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.