Terrence "Terry" Patrick Kraus, of Monroe, Ohio, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family, on January 18, 2026.
Terry loved music and spending time with friends and family. It was possible that any gathering would turn into a jam session- he rarely showed up without a harmonica and was always ready for band practice at a moment's notice. Terry was generous, quick to help anyone in need, and never failed to check that his grandchildren had a little "pocket money" before they left his side. Terry could quote any line from his favorite movies, often did, and had ongoing banter with his children quoting the famous lines that have become routine with each of them.
Terry was deeply rooted in his Catholic faith. He could recite Scripture with ease, proudly served as the designated prayer-leader before meals, and never missed an opportunity to recruit others into Catholicism.
Most will remember Terry's humor. He was funny- quick-witted, playful, and always ready with a joke or perfectly timed comment. His stories grew better with every retelling and he had a way of making people feel lighter just by being around him. Whether teasing family, joking with friends, or cracking himself up mid-sentence, Terry's humor was a gift he gave freely and often.
Terry is survived by his wife, Denise (Holloway) Kraus; children: Nicola "Nikki" (Kraus) (Mario) Vargas, Eric Kraus, Brice (Erica) Nichols, Chelsea Nichols; grandchildren: Austin Nichols, Caley Sallee, Logan Vargas, Dakin Johnson, Delaney Nichols, Dahlila Nichols; great-grandson: Tevin Marshall; and siblings: Joseph (June) Kraus, Kathy (Steve) (Kraus) Wedding, Noni "Bitsy" (Kraus) Dietrich, John Kraus, and several nieces, nephews, bandmates, close friends, and his beloved dog, Luke.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Steve Kraus; nephew, Bryan Kraus; mother, Linda Kraus; and father, Harold (Kathy) Kraus.
Terry served in the United States Army and was a proud Vietnam Veteran.
Terry had arrangements to be gifted to the Boonshoft Medical Program at Wright State. There will be an upcoming celebration of life for his friends and family to pay their respects and celebrate what Terry meant to each of them.
Terry was proud to contribute monthly to the
Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude's Hospital, Schriners Children's, and Relevant Radio. In lieu of any flowers, please continue to donate to any of these charities in Terry's honor.