Fred Otto Kraatz

Fred Kraatz, 87, beloved son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, was called to his eternal resting place on July 31, 2023. He entered this world on March 10, 1936 in Winters, TX born to John and Minnie Kraatz and was one of 9 children.

Fred was a hard worker from a young age and all through his life. Fred joined the United States Airforce in 1952 and made a 22-year career as an AGE Electrician. Fred married the love of his life, Margreat Bradshaw in 1954 and they traveled the world with their children. After retiring from the Air Force, Fred worked in other career fields before he and Margreat settled in Tuscola where Fred started working at Jim Ned CISD as a bus mechanic and eventually retiring as Bus and Maintenance Supervisor.

Fred loved his family and many weekends you could find him visiting his children and grandchildren no matter where they were in the country. Fred was a lifetime member of the American Legion and volunteered his time with Post 664 of Tuscola for many years. In 1994, they moved to Ovalo and he started raising registered American Paint Horses and farming. He had many horses over the years and enjoyed riding them and watching them graze in the pasture. He and Margreat joined a riding club and participated in many trail rides and parades during their time in the club. Fred was a great mechanic and he enjoyed working on equipment around the farm. He loved wood working and made many beautiful things that his family will cherish forever. Fred loved his family, especially Miss Margreat who he loved with all his heart.

He is survived by his wife, Margreat Kraatz of 69 years, daughter Carrie Housewright and husband Robert; son Johnny Kraatz and wife Lorie; son-in-law Kobe Owens; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Joanna Owens and his great-grandson Eriq Chmielewski.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday 5-7 pm at Fry-Smith Funeral Home in Tuscola, Tx.

The funeral will be held at 10:30 am Thursday at Lawn Baptist Church, private graveside following.

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