Fred Kracht

In loving memory of Fred Don Kracht, fondly referred to as Don, Donnie, and Daddy.

February 15, 1934 - May 30, 2024

Fred D. Kracht peacefully passed away at the age of 90 on the evening of May 30, 2024, at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa. A family-led celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, July 28, 2024, at the Natural Grind in Grundy Center, Iowa, from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Memorials in Don’s name may be directed to the family for a later designation. For additional information or to send a condolence to the family, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

Fred Don Kracht was born on February 15, 1934, in Crofton, Nebraska. He was the son of Fred William and Dorotha (Salmon) Kracht. Don grew up on a family farm in Rossie, Iowa. He completed his high school education and furthered his studies at Iowa Lakes Community College, where he received his Associate of Arts Degree.

Don enlisted in the United States Navy in December 1955 during the Korean War Conflict. He was assigned as an electrician while in the service. In September 1957, he was honorably discharged.

He called Spencer, Iowa, his home. Don was first married to Beth Beckham. Together, Don and Beth had three children: Tamara, Jay, and Todd. He worked for Anderson Construction Company as a carpenter and salesman. He and Beth were later divorced. Don then married Dixie Tanhoff, and together they welcomed one son, Shawn, and gained two bonus children, Thomas and Dana.

Don began his own construction business, Kracht Construction, until his retirement. He was a man who embodied love, devotion, and a zest for life. His unwavering love for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family members, and farm life was a testament to the depth of his heart.

It was his passion for fishing and painting that truly illuminated his spirit. Every cast of the line or stroke of the brush was a moment of tranquility, a chance to connect with nature and reflect on the beauty of the world.

Yet, beyond his love for fishing and painting, it was his selflessness that defined him. He was always there, ready to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. His availability knew no bounds, and his compassion touched the lives of many.

Don’s sense of humor brought laughter and joy to every gathering. With a twinkle in his eye and a quick wit, he had a way of brightening even the darkest of days. His laughter was infectious, and his silly jokes are forever etched in our memories.

Don’s love knew no bounds. He loved deeply, and his love extended beyond his family. It encompassed his friends and all those fortunate enough to cross his path. His love was a guiding light, a beacon of warmth and comfort that embraced all who knew him.

When it came to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his love knew no bounds. They were the apple of his eye, the source of endless joy and pride. He would light up with delight at the sound of their laughter, cherishing every moment spent with them. From teaching them to fish to sharing stories by the fireside, he created memories that will forever be treasured by all.

Fred is survived by his children: Tamara (Mike) Bryant of Phoenix, AZ; Jay (Debbie) Kracht of Sequim, WA; Todd (Tanya) Kracht of Snohomish, WA; Thomas (Brenda) Kracht of Moravia, IA; Shawn (Natalie) Kracht of Grundy Center, IA; and Dana (Catherine) Lorenz of Dallas, TX. His grandchildren: Brian Donnelly, Alexis Donnelly, Christopher Kracht, Andrew Kracht, Kylee Kracht, Ayden Kracht, Evan Kracht, Emerson Kracht, Austin Appel, Kaylie Appel, and five great-grandchildren. His siblings: Doris (Earl) Wilson of Yuma, AZ, and Duane (Kay) Kracht of Spencer, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Dorotha Kracht, and his sisters, Deloris Kracht and Violet Gonnerman.