Richard Kraft

This man saved my life. I ruptured my spleen in a sledding accident in the Nichols Arboretum in 1971. Dr. Kraft, of course, performed the surgery. It was only afterward I learned that I had been treated by the best. I remain grateful to this great man. May he rest in peace.

Dr. Kraft brought a curiosity and incisive intellect matched with compassion for his patients to his sugical practice. He cultivated his residency program with sincere interest, support and care for his very devoted trainees. In building a stellar surgical program he led by example, understanding that modeling habits and behavior left the greatest impact. Woe betide the resident who did not respect and support nurses should your behavior come to the attention of the `boss´ (or Jean !). He...

My work with Dr. Kraft was in the Acadenic Surgery Program. His presence and dedication to the teaching in the Clinic was admirable. And his personal interest, wisdom and sense of humor were a huge asset to the Program. What an incredible legacy he left for all of us who were fortunate enough to work with him. My thoughts are with you, Jean, and your family. Warmly, Diane Nielsen.

Dr Kraft inspired many, he inspired me to make nursing the post op surgical patient my career.

I first met Dick in 1970 when I was interviewing for an internship at St. Joes. He apparently saw something good in me and for the next 40+ years Dick and I were active in patient care, administration, and medical education for medical students and residents. To that end, I even had the good fortune to interview and accept Dick's daughter, Sally, for an internship and certainly the acorn didn't fall far from the tree. Sally was the hardest working and best intern I had during my 25+ years...

I was Dr Kraft's insurance agent for 35 years. He was the most gracious client. I always looked forward to our conversations and enjoyed our interactions. I'm sorry to here of his passing. He was one of my favorite clients.

Enjoyed the many years we worked together.

He recruited me to St. Joe´s from Uof M. He was one of the most supportive surgeons for all nurses from staff nurse to nurse administrator. His exemplary leadership role will never be forgotten.