Frankenmuth

In Memory Of Richard (Dick) Krafft Jr. 9.17.1929 – 5.22.2020 ✝ 20 customers throughout the Midwest. "He was not a good driver," Fassezke said. "He liked to utilize his time to the fullest so he was in a hurry, tailgating. It was always a white knuckle drive and there were many times I thanked the good Lord when we got home." Aside from work, Krafft's many years of service included the St. Lorenz Foundation Board, Chairman of the Congregation, Chairman of the 1989 and 2008 School Building projects and a member of the church's Board of Trustees. Pastor Mark Brandt, of St. Lorenz Lutheran Church, said his faith was strong. "Dick's faith was most evident in the way he lived his life: with integrity and humility, but also with confidence and joy. He was always ready to offer a helping hand and was generous in his support of the ministry at St. Lorenz and of many other humanitarian organizations. He and Mary Ann were very faithful in worship." Beyond church, Krafft served the community of Frankenmuth over the years as President and charter member of the Lion's Club, President of the Frankenmuth Civic Events Council and President of the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce. Likewise, his past industry affiliations combined with his outgoing personality made him a one-man marketing department for Star of the West. Over the years he was Chairman of the Millers National Federation as well as president of the Michigan Bean Shippers Association, Michigan Millers Association, and Michigan Feed and Grain Dealers. Krafft was the recipient of numerous awards including: the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Frankenmuth Rotary and the Herbert L. Keinath Distinguished Service Award from the Jaycees. He was the first recipient of the Michigan Agricultural Business Association's Leaders and Legends Award. The last few months of Krafft's life were unsettling on the minds and hearts of his loved ones. Because of the isolation imposed by the Covid-19 virus, there were so many people who missed the chance to say goodbye. Pastor Brandt said Krafft's family expressed their deep gratitude to everyone who remembered him in their prayers and who sent condolences at his passing. "They are especially grateful to know that Dick was never completely alone during his illness, as his Savior was constantly by his side. And they take great comfort in knowing that Dick is now at peace in his eternal home."

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