Kevin Gerard Kraft, 55, of Cooperstown NY, chose to end his life on December 12, 2019. He lived with intensity, honesty, and purpose. He lived his life on his terms, accomplished great things and touched the lives of many. In the end, battling with depression, he decided his time had come.
Kevin graduated from Saugerties High School as class president. He then went on to further his education by earning his certification as a professional chef from SUNY Cobleskill. He also earned his BA in American History from SUNY Oneonta and a MA in Modern American History from Syracuse University. He was working toward completion of his PhD when he joined the Marines, where he held the rank of Captain. Kevin’s deployments included Kuwait, Iraq, the demilitarized zone in Korea, and Somalia. His love and experiences as a Marine shaped him for the rest of his life. Kevin owned a real estate firm in Southern California, then founded Valley Brook Farm in Cooperstown, NY and later he founded BlastKraft, LLC.
A driven and athletic man, Kevin competed in four Ironman Triathlons completing two, a 4,000 mile Trans-America bicycle tour from California to Washington, DC , a mountain bicycle tour in the People’s Republic of China, and multiple weight-lifting competitions.
Generous and kind, Kevin rescued, fostered, and helped find forever homes for over 100 basset hounds. He was a problem-solver and always ready to help others. Countless people turned to him for practical and other kinds of support.
Kevin is survived by his wife Amber, to whom he was devoted. He leaves behind his father Robert “Bob” Kraft and his step-mom Mickey Kraft, his mother Judith Kraft, brother Christopher Kraft, sister Kelly Meyer, step-sister Cheri Beberwyk, as well as their families, and also his best friend and cousin Bill Gerard, his extended family, as well as many caring friends.
A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.
He will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, please express your sympathy by making a contribution to ABC Basset Hound Rescue (PO Box 272, Buffalo, NY 14225, www.nybasset.org) or Stop Soldier Suicide (PO Box 110605, Durham, NC 27709, www.stopsoldiersuicide.org).
To offer condolences to the family, please visit: www.grummonsfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are by the Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home, Oneonta.
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