Allan J. Krause

Allan J. Krause, 82 of Watertown, passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Marquardt Health Center of Watertown.

Al was born on April 9, 1943, in Watertown, WI, the son of Arnold and Francis (Krueger) Krause. A proud 1961 graduate of Watertown High School, Al continued his education at UW-Madison, where he studied business. After school, he drove semi cross country which led to his employment at Carnation Co. and the creation of their Transportation Division.

Al was raised in a devoutly Christian home, and an active participant at First Baptist Church of Watertown for his entire life. On a youth church retreat, he met Jan Schmidtman, a beautiful farm girl from Manitowoc. The young couple continued their friendship from a distance and were married on June 15, 1968. Al and Jan's marriage was one of deep love, friendship and service to each other and their community. They carried on these deep values as they grew their family and were blessed with two children, David (1974) and Jacqueline (1980).

Al showed his thankfulness for Christ's love by his unwavering care for others and commitment to excellence. He brought his best to every task-whether tending to his home, planning family road trips, serving his kids in everything from being an elementary school "room mom" to homecoming float liason, organizing group outings with friends, leading master gardening efforts in Dodge County, or being the neighborhood handyman. Al's humility and love for people was especially evident in how he served his church. He was an enthusiastic music leader, organized summer Vacation Bible School, manicured every garden bed and blade of grass while also meticulously cleaning the interior of the church.

The joy of Al's life was his family. His children thrived in their youth, became exceptional adults, and produced 4 precious grandchildren. For over 40 years he enjoyed extended camping trips with his sister and her family and shared many vacations with Jan's brother and his wife.

He is survived by: his wife of 57 years Janet Krause; daughter Jacqueline Johnson; daughter-in-law Alyssa Krause; grandchildren Luke, Eva, and Hudson Krause and Judah Johnson; brother-in-law Ken (Diana) Schmidtman; brother-in-law Bill Kostner, nieces Julie (Tom) VanDixhorn and Katie (Andy) Sieberer; and great-nieces and nephews.

Al is preceded in death by his parents, beloved son David Krause, and dear sister Jan Kostner.

Memorials in Al's name to First Baptist Church in Watertown are greatly appreciated.

A celebration of Al's life will be held at 12:00PM on Friday, September 5th, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Watertown with Rev. Shane Walker presiding. Visitation will be from 10:00AM until the time of service at the church. Family and friends are invited to a time of food, laughter, and singing in the FBC Fellowship Hall following the service.