Andrew Eric Krafft

Andrew Eric Krafft obituary, Evanston, IL

Andrew Eric Krafft

Andrew Krafft Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 11, 2024.
Hi, Everyone! We will be holding a Celebration of Life for Andrew on Thursday, March 6th, 2025, at 10AM at the Alice Millar Chapel in Evanston. (1870 Sheridan Rd., Evanston, IL 60208.) There will be a reception immediately following. Also, Celine is asking people to please write down their favorite Andrew story and send it to [email protected] so she can compile a book of memories for their son, Eric. Long or short, doesn't matter, it's up to you. You probably have a lot to choose from. He was one of a kind in the truly best way.




We are devastated to announce the loss of our beloved Andrew Eric Krafft who passed away March 6, 2024. Loving husband of Celine Shukis Krafft and proud father of Eric Vyto Krafft. Adored brother of Stephen Krafft (Nancy,) Katie Hallenborg (Ralph,) Ellen Shaker (Tim,) Mindy Krafft (Mark Caras,) Laura Krafft, and David Krafft. Doting and involved uncle to thirty-one nieces and nephews.

From as soon as he could dream it, Andrew wanted to fly planes and he reached this goal with aplomb. After a long and storied career as a military pilot flying P-3 Orions in the U.S. Navy and C-130s in the U. S. Air Force, Andrew joined United Airlines where he flew a variety of planes, ending as an international pilot of the Boeing 777.

In addition to his love of flying, Andrew was an avid sailor of all kinds of boats but especially his 36-foot sailboat, "The Escape II." He also loved music and had a beautiful tenor voice which he gladly shared despite never fully knowing the lyrics to any song. His childhood nickname was "The Mayor" because where ever he went, people knew his name and were happy to see him. His smile and zest for life were infectious. He was always on the move. He traveled the world and made friends with its entire population.

Andrew's thoughtfulness was legendary. He could be reached out to and relied upon at any time of the day or night. He was that rare person who was truly solid. He was also goofy, charming, and handsome. He sparkled. He gleamed. He was the most precious of gems and there has never been anyone more treasured. There will never be anyone more missed.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to DAV: The Disabled American Veterans.

(https://help.dav.org/page/52572/donate/1?ea.tracking.id=fund_sem&en_txn6=B24FN004AANAABSA&utm_campaign=fund&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&gclsrc=aw.ds&&utm_term=disabled%20american%20veterans&matchtype=e&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA0bWvBhBjEiwAtEsoW4jZ_zCUojCUg0qq1e5lHavROHlVCUicF10ZZxgqE7dqQn4CH3atZBoCTBgQAvD_BwE)

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July 24, 2024

Carlton Moody posted to the memorial.

May 22, 2024

Benjamin James Borkovitz posted to the memorial.

April 20, 2024

Jonathan Reese posted to the memorial.

Carlton Moody

July 24, 2024

I remember Andrew so well from his days at King Lab. He was always so positive, polite and inquisitive. I am so impressed with his accomplishments and so sad to learn of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. I´m sure he will be missed greatly.

Carlton Moody

Benjamin James Borkovitz

May 22, 2024

Leading the ETHS marching band with a lot of enthusiasm. He rose above much of the pettiness of some of the high school crowd

Jonathan Reese

April 20, 2024

I was in the musical "Wonderful Town" with Andrew! He was a good man who had good character! He will be missed!

John Albergo

March 14, 2024

I met Andrew at Dempster Beach. He had questions about questions about setting up a Laser. He loved to talk sailing. He was always friendly, always smiling and always outgoing. I wish I had gotten to know him better. My sincere and heartfelt sympathy.

Kim sutkerh

March 14, 2024

Heartbreaking news
My thoughts are with your family at this sad time
I knew Andrew when he was in grammar school along with his brother Steve
He was very fun energetic and enjoyed a lot of outdoor activities
Your family and friends are in my prayers
God bless Andrew an thank you for your service

Joe Hollman

March 13, 2024

Joe Hollman

March 13, 2024

Joe Hollman

March 13, 2024

The world lost a bright shining star! He would literally give you the shirt off his back. Perhaps the most selfless man I’ve ever known. I met Andrew in 2000 through the Air Force. We deployed to the Middle East together many times. I, like many of you, had the pleasure of sailing on Lake Michigan with him. Known for his “ Let’s Go White Socks! “ cheer and forever bragging about his amazing wife and son and siblings, and parents. The good news is, St Peter was offered a fresh cup of coffee from his French Press. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Admiral !

Wendy Kahn

March 13, 2024

My first memory of Andrew was when all the Krafft cousins stayed at a lakeside cottage when he was one. I found him in the children's sleeping quarters just as he had woken up from his nap. I told him my name, which he pronounced incorrectly, so I corrected him. Then he went off on a riff with the correct pronunciation, but multiple intonations and expressions. He was grinning the whole time and we laughed together over his riff. Even then, he was engaging and remarkable. He remained that way throughout his life. He gave so much to everyone around him. What a terrible loss for his family, friends, and the world at large. Andrew, I hope you are now at peace.

Cheri Penley-Rushing

March 12, 2024

Cheri Penley-Rushing

March 12, 2024

Cheri Penley-Rushing

March 12, 2024

Cheri Penley-Rushing

March 12, 2024

I had such a great time getting to know Andrew better while we were on the planning committee for our ETHS 40th reunion. He was the kindest & most positive person, always had a smile, always willing to help pickup/drop off etc... He spoke so lovingly about his family and passionately about his travels, biking, & sailing. He invited us on to his boat several times and I wish I could have joined. He will be missed greatly and my sincerest condolences go out to family & close friends. This is a tough one to process....

Marsha Barnett

March 12, 2024

Andrew was a favorite on our block where he grew up. He was friendly
and outgoing with everyone. To this day, I can picture him with a smile on his face and an enthusiastic greeting at the annual 4th of July celebration or "wherever." Usually, he was with several people, as his inclusiveness was like a magnet to others. Everyone was happy to see and talk with him.

My four sons were around the same age as Andrew, and all join me in expressing a deep sadness with his passing. His communities of family, friends, neighbors and colleagues will miss his unique presence.

To Celine, Eric and other family members, we wish you a strength & courage you never knew you had as you move along the path of this loss. Perhaps someday your memories of him will bring smiles rather than tears, as I'm sure Andrew would want that for you.

With warm thoughts as you continue this journey

Marsha Barnett and family

Bill Eikost

March 12, 2024

While I regret not knowing the man Andrew became, I was happy to see it was almost exactly as I remember him telling us it would be. I can see Andrew left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched with his unwavering ambition & zest for living. He truly lived life on the terms he set early on and that should be an example for each of us. Sincere condolences to those near and dear to Andrew; may their cherished memories bring comfort and peace that he is now at eternal rest.

Laura Atwell

March 11, 2024

I only met Andrew a few times, but he was instantly friendly, charming, and generous. Your grief can only be imagined, but your sorrow can be shared. He will be greatly missed.

Deirdre Sullivan

March 11, 2024

I was organizing a triathlon on Naval Air Weapon Station Point Mugu and I was drawing numbers for prizes after the race. Andrew in his usual gleeful tone shouted out his number and said pick mine. Of course I reached in, it was his number and we were sure everyone thought it was rigged. This was almost as funny as when he was returning to the ice and I was driving him to base. We had to follow the truck full of his charges off the base and catch up. He was about five minutes behind, as was usually the case with our fun adventures. I would also be remiss if I did not mention the time we were in his convertible going down Sheridan Road with the music blaring from the Lone Ranger, or some such thing, with Andrew singing at the top of his lungs as we passed a car fire. He barely even noticed how hot it was because he was so into the entertainment and fun. A chunk of my heart goes with him.

Beth, Jason & Stevie Hunt

March 11, 2024

I had the distinction of being neighbors to Andrew, Celine, Eric, and the bunnies. They were the first to greet us when we moved in 2014. The smell of campfires wafting over the fence, jumping on the trampoline, our kids´ birthday parties, and seeing the highly decorated Krafft house and family for Halloween were just a few of the endearing memories I have. I loved hearing about their travels that were invigorating and unique. He was a good listener with a loud laugh that smiled, and he always seemed to enjoy my meandering anecdotes. I wish I had been able to thank Andrew for taking Stevie sailing and paddle boarding for all those years and for demonstrating kindness to me and my family. May his memory ever be a blessing and healing to all that were touched by him.

Amy G Culberg

March 9, 2024

Amy G Culberg

March 9, 2024

Amy G Culberg

March 9, 2024

One of my favorite memories of Andrew is seeing him on the Lake at sunset and marveling at the golden hour. He was always so happy to be on the water and his joy was contagious. "We're so lucky we have this," he would say.

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July 24, 2024

Carlton Moody posted to the memorial.

May 22, 2024

Benjamin James Borkovitz posted to the memorial.

April 20, 2024

Jonathan Reese posted to the memorial.