Joseph P. Kraft, Jr., aged 89, passed away on June 27, 2024. He was a beloved father, husband, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Joe was born on October 12, 1934 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He graduated from Central Catholic in 1952 and attended General Electric Apprentice School, later becoming chief engineer at Fruehauf and Advance Mixer. Joe helped develop the front discharge concrete mixer. He served in the Air National Guard. Joe loved spending time with his family, sharing stories, fishing at Adams Lake, watching sports and MacGyvering. Joe's Marian devotion and affinity for The Pieta Prayer Book served as a beacon throughout his life. He was an active member of Knights of Columbus Council 451, served as Adams Lake Conservation Club treasurer and built sets for Bishop Dwenger's Saint's Alive.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Rose, his children, Cindie (Phill) Rosswurm, Terri (Bob) Bowles, Tim (Valerie) Kraft and Tony (Brenda) Kraft, and his eight grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helene and Joseph P. Kraft, Sr. and sister, Dorothy (Gordon) Hickman.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Fort Wayne on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at 10:30 am, with visitation one hour prior at the church. Burial immediately following at Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorials may be made to St. Jude or St. Charles Catholic Churches.

Donations

Memorials may be made to St. Jude or St. Charles Catholic Churches