Ronald William Krafft

Ronald William Krafft, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Camdenton, Missouri, on January 31, 2026, at the age of 77.

Ron was born on March 21, 1948, in Hornersville, Missouri, to August Krafft and Tessie Mason. He grew up with a strong sense of responsibility, independence, and pride in doing things the right way-values that guided him throughout his life and that he quietly passed on to his family.

Ron proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era. That service shaped him in lasting ways, reinforcing the discipline, calm focus, and dedication that became hallmarks of who he was. After his military service, he followed his passion for aviation, earning his Airframe & Powerplant license in Pomona, California. What followed was a long and respected career working on aircraft-first with Boeing, then for many years with Northwest Airlines as an aircraft mechanic and later returning to Boeing for special projects even after retirement. He took great pride in his work and found real satisfaction in knowing that what he did mattered.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Krafft. Their bond remained a constant presence in his life, and she was never far from his thoughts or his heart.

He is survived by his three sons, who were the center of his world: Brian Krafft and his wife Kara of Anacortes, Washington; Marc Krafft and his wife, Dr. Rachel Summer Claire Friedman, of Santa Rosa, California; and Glenn Krafft and his wife Jamie of Warrenton, Missouri. Ron was incredibly proud of the men his sons became and the families they built.

Nothing brought him more joy than being a grandfather. He leaves behind six grandchildren-Ethan Krafft (and wife Tatyana), Sonja Krafft (and fiancé Jason Valentine), Noah Benjamin Zushya Krafft, Ezra Lev Mathias Krafft, Jackson Krafft, and Haileigh Cenatiempo-each of whom held a special place in his heart. He loved watching them grow, listening to their stories, and quietly being there for them.

Ron was a man of many words who never met a stranger. He had an infectious smile and laugh with a rare ability to treat everyone he met like a lifelong friend, regardless of their background or where they came from. He was full of piss and vinegar until the very end, a man of strong convictions who you could always count on for a straight answer and a bit of grit.

When Ron spoke, people listened, drawn to his spicy-warm sense of humor and his deep respect for a life of craftsmanship and integrity. He showed his love through consistency, loyalty, and simply showing up for the people who mattered. Beneath that spirited exterior was a fierce compassion for those in need, and he cared deeply for the well-being of women and children. To his family, Ron was a constant source of guidance, protection, and unwavering support.

Ron made his home in Camden County, Missouri, where he spent his later years. He leaves behind a legacy of service, skill, and love-one that lives on through his children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed, always remembered, and forever loved.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Hedges Scott Millard Funeral in Camdenton, Missouri from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm at Hedges Scott Millard Funeral Home in Camdenton, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com.