Jean Marie Kraftzenk

Racine – Jean Marie (nee: Nakiewich) Kraftzenk, age 69, passed away unexpectedly at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Monday afternoon, September 29, 2014. 

Jean was born in Racine on September 26, 1945 to the late Alfons and Mabel (nee: Beyer) Nakiewich. She attended Wisconsin Lutheran School and graduated from Racine Lutheran High School in 1963. 

Jean was a member of the Racine Raiders Cheerleading Squad in 1967 when she caught the eye of a young man, Thomas Jon Kraftzenk, who immediately swept her off her feet. Two hearts became one and they were married in Epiphany Lutheran Church on August 24, 1968. She was a member of Epiphany Lutheran Church and proud participant at Benjamin House – AA where she served on the Board of Directors. Among her interests, she enjoyed camping, playing cards with Tom, was an Ebay fanatic and loved spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren – especially by attending all of their sporting events. 

Surviving are her loving husband of 46 years, Tom; their children, Nick (Shannon) Kraftzenk, Tanya (Adam) Noll and Mark (Jennie) Kraftzenk; grandchildren, Jared & Aidan Kraftzenk; Brady & Lindsay Noll; Nicholas & Dylan Kraftzenk; sister, Bonnie (Lloyd) Maas; brother-in-law, David L. (Linda) Kraftzenk; canine companion, Sadie; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends – too numerous to mention all by name. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by Tom’s parents, Nick and Helen (nee: Singer) Kraftzenk; and by her beloved chocolate lab, Ginger.     

Funeral services will be held at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 2921 Olive Street, on Thursday, October 2, 2014 at 7:00 pm with Rev. Michael D. Zarling officiating. Visitation will be in Epiphany Lutheran Church on Thursday from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. Private interment will take place next to her parents in Graceland Cemetery. In memory of Jean, memorials to the Benjamin House have been suggested.