Keith Randall Kraft's Obituary
Keith Randall Kraft, 79, of Chanute, Kansas passed away at his home on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.
Keith was born on March 19, 1946, in Gridley, Kansas to Lewis and Thelma (Reed) Kraft. On July 16, 1982, Keith married Marilyn “Kay” Camren in Miami, Oklahoma. Keith owned and operated Kraft Construction for many years before retiring and turning to his true passion, cattle. Keith and his wife Kay also owned and operated Krafties Bait Shop and Beauty Shop. It then changed to Krafties Gun and Pawn Shop. Neighborhood kids called it the beer, bait and beauty. Keith loved to tend to his cattle. In his younger years he rode in many rodeos. Bravely riding the broncs and bulls for numerous events. He also trained and broke horses. During his free time, Keith loved to hunt, work his cattle, and tend to projects around the farm.
Keith was a member of the United States Army National Guard for 6 years. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #170 for 50 plus years, and the Elks Lodge for 40 plus years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Thelma Kraft, infant brother Vernon Dean Kraft, brothers, Theodore “Ted” Kraft, Jerry Lee Kraft, and Arnold Kraft.
Keith’s memory will carry on with his wife Kay, daughter, Karmen Crawford, stepson, John Johnston, stepdaughters, Francine Brown, Deena Finley and husband, Danny, Lori Reid and husband, John and Melisa Coltharp, sisters, Charlene Raaf, and Patricia Johnson, 9 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren with one on the way. Following Keith’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, and the family will greet friends for a visitation on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Memorials can be made in Keith’s name to the Cherry Street Youth Center and can be left with the funeral home.
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