Stephen Kraft Obituary

Stephen Lynn Kraft, known to most as Steve or "Grumpa," passed away at his home in Cortez on Nov. 27, 2012, at the age of 75 years old. Steve was born the first of three children on Aug. 7, 1937, to Carl Emery Kraft and Ina Mildred Hawkins in Clinton, Ill.

After graduating from Kremling Union High School in 1955 he entered the United States Air Force. He served for six years and while stationed in Roswell, N.M. he met the love of his life, Delilah Najar. They were joined in marriage May 1, 1959. By the next year they welcomed their first son. In 1962 they moved to Denver where their four other children were born. In 1982 they moved to Cortez where they raised their three youngest children.

Steve ran his own business, Raintight Seamless Gutters, and all the while enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, going to the casino and all Colorado-related sports. Being an avid Broncos fan, his family grew up with a passion for the Broncos. Steve loved having his family over so he could barbecue his famous ribs. He loved his family very much and often bragged of them to others.

Steve is survived by his children, Stephen C. Kraft and wife Brenda of Alamosa, Colo., Karen L. Randolph and husband John of Cortez, DeIna S. Robson and husband Robert of Cortez, Randell Ray Kraft of Mesa, Ariz.; and Joni L. White and husband Bruce of Cortez. He is also survived by his brother, Ron Kraft of Cortez; 12 grandchildren; and by 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by both his parents; his brother, Roger Kraft; and by his loving wife, Delilah Kraft.

There will be a small private gathering of family on Saturday, Dec. 8. To send condolences, log onto www.ertelfuneralhome.com.