John Lloyd Kraft

John Lloyd Kraft was born July 20, 1938, on the family farm south of Coulter, Iowa. He reached the age of 84 years 11 months and passed from this life on Father’s Day, June 18, 2023.

He will be missed by Shirley, his wife of 59 years, daughter Terri (Brad) Gralheer of Fremont, NE, three sons Michael (Kelly) of Greenville, SC, Mark (Sheri) and Matthew (Melissa) both of Cottage Grove, MN.  He was blessed with eight grandchildren: Brandon (Kristina) and Christopher (Amber) Gralheer, Alan Kraft, Jordan (Annie) Kraft, Hayley Kraft, Claire Kraft, Emma (Josh) Harrison, and Mason Kraft along with six great grandchildren. Also surviving are two sisters, Beverly Myers of Greensboro, NC and Dorothy Jensen of Las Vegas, NV, as well as several cherished nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents Elroy and Florence Kraft, brother George, and sister Marjery Fjelde.

John grew up on the family farm and graduated from Franklin Consolidated high school in 1956. He served in the National Guard and the U.S. Air Force. He spent most of his working years in the trucking industry driving big rigs, sometimes owning his own tractor, dispatching, and hiring owner operators.

John’s special gift was being a friend to many, easily making time for long visits with anyone he knew.  He would start a conversation with any stranger anywhere on the street or park bench.

He cherished time spent with his grandchildren and supported them by attending many school activities, sporting events, graduations, and college visits. John enjoyed being his grandchildren's chauffeur whenever needed. John was a passionate Iowa Hawkeye fan, attending several football games. He made big rig trips with his sons and enjoyed family cookouts in the park. John loved animals, enjoying the company of many dear pets throughout his life. He also loved feeding the squirrels, deer, and birds in his backyard. He enjoyed traveling. Some of his favorites were Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Coronado, and Disney World. He took multiple European river cruises seeing Germany, France, England and other countries.

We would like to acknowledge the oncology department at the Mayo Clinic for their excellent care giving John more time with his family. His family is grateful for the blessing of John’s life and that he is now at peace with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.