Thomas A. Kraeutler

Thomas A. Kraeutler ObituaryThomas Anthony Kraeutler
7/12/59 - 2/2/25
Tom Kraeutler, 65, of Oakhurst, NJ passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025. A beloved husband, father, brother, son, scouter, media personality, and trusted voice for countless listeners and viewers, he left behind a legacy of knowledge, warmth, and service to his community.
Born in Neptune before moving into the family home in Oakhurst, Tom was a graduate of Ocean Township High School and held a BS in Industrial Arts from Trenton State College in addition to completing an international studies program in architecture at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.
He began his career as a woodshop teacher and then home inspector, but is best known for co-hosting The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show, which is heard on over 460 stations around the world, and its associated podcast. Tom was a household name for many who sought advice on making their homes safer, more efficient, and beautiful. His practical tips and down-to-earth guidance made him a trusted advisor to generations of homeowners.
Tom's impact went beyond his work in radio. He served as Chairman of the National Marketing Support Committee of Scouting America. In this role he provided invaluable strategy and guidance to the executive leadership of Scouting. He was a leader of the national media teams for four national Jamborees and the World Scouting Jamboree. In 2022, he was awarded the Silver Antelope, one of Scouting's highest awards to adults for outstanding service to youth. He was an avid supporter of Troop 71 in Oakhurst. Whether on-air or off, he touched the lives of all who were lucky enough to know him personally.
Tom is survived by Susan, his loving wife of 35 years; his children, Thomas, Sara and Trevor, of whom he was immeasurably proud; sisters, MaryBeth and Lisa; and mother, Josephine. He was predeceased by his father Kenneth. He is also survived by many treasured nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held on Friday, February 7th from 2-4PM and 5-8PM at Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst, Ocean Township. Funeral Mass will be offered on Saturday, February 8th at 1PM at the Church of St. Anselm, 1028 Wayside Road, Tinton Falls, NJ. A private burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Summit Bechtel Scout Reserve Staff Association, the organization that provides a gateway to adventure for America's youth: https://donations.scouting.org/?#/council/NCFD/appeal/7692.
We recognize Tom had an international network of friends and colleagues, many of whom will be unable to attend on such short notice. Please leave your contact information at the following link to be updated on a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date: https://forms.gle/1pSqXnGr4W1HzT4QA.
Tom's work and his spirit will live on in the countless homes he helped improve and the many lives he touched through his kindness and expertise. He will be missed but never forgotten. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.
Thomas Anthony Kraeutler
7/12/59 - 2/2/25
Tom Kraeutler, 65, of Oakhurst, NJ passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025. A beloved husband, father, brother, son, scouter, media personality, and trusted voice for countless listeners and viewers, he left behind a legacy of knowledge, warmth, and service t