Jim Kruse

Jim Kruse has always had a passion for helping others. His first summer job during high school at a local garden and nursery center gave him the first hint of what was to come. Within his first month of employment, Jim was moved from potting plants to sales due to his positive interactions with customers. In 1979, Jim was hired as a bench jeweler and was eventually trained as a diamond setter. Once again, he was promoted to a sales and management position which he did for many years. During that time, he became a Registered Jeweler, then a Certified Gemologist through the American Gem Society and the Gemological Institute of America. After 20 years, Jim decided to leave retail for awhile. He worked for a custom jeweler as both a bench jeweler and a salesman. Jim's combination of conventional retail and artistic experience provided him with the perfect balance for the creation and tremendous growth of J. F. Kruse Jewelers.

Peter Maus

Peter graduated from Rocori High School in 1984.  He attended St. Paul Technical College and graduated with honors in the Watch and Jewelry Repair program.  While attending school, he worked as a goldsmith for a jeweler in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  After graduation, he moved to St. Cloud, where he worked for a local jeweler.  Peter completed a Certified Gemologist degree, as well as a gem setting course, through the Gemological Institute of America.  Peter started at J. F. Kruse Jewelers in 2000 and became a partner in 2001.  He manages the repair department and utilizes his experience and expertise to create beautiful works of art.  His guiding philosophy throughout his career has been to put the customer first, and the quality of his work reflects that philosophy.

Joey Ruegemer

Joey graduated from Apollo High School and earned a degree in Sales and Management at the St. Cloud Technical College. She became a secretary for DECA in Minnesota and won several awards and titles in that position. Joey has nearly two decades of experience in sales and visual merchandising. She earned her Certified Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America in 2000. In addition to having experience in nearly every facet of the industry, she is creative, fun, and excels at jewelry merchandising and personal styling. Joey has been in the jewelry industry for over 16 years and has an enthusiasm for design and fashion.

Melissa Kruse-Kelley

Melissa graduated from Apollo High School in 2005. She attended Rasmussen College and earned a major in Business Management and a minor in Sales and Marketing. Melissa has been employed at J. F. Kruse Jewelers since 2003. She began her career by doing cleaning and basic office duties and has worked her way up to being General Manager and a Co-Owner. Melissa earned a Graduate Gemologist degree through the Gemological Institute of America and continues to take courses to expand and refine her skills. Melissa has a passion for people and finds her greatest joy in working with and helping others.