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BORN
1957
DIED
2022
Charles Kracker Obituary
March 5, 1957 - August 4, 2022
Charles "Chuck" Kracker passed away suddenly in the afternoon on Thursday, August 4th, 2022, from complications with a heart procedure. Charles was born in Ohio but moved to Sonoma County at the young age of three with his parents. A Santa Rosa High School graduate and self-made businessman; Chuck had a lifelong love of the trucking industry and was a pillar in any field he chose to work in. He bought his first truck at the age of 18 and began hauling hay, lumber, and grapes. In the years that would follow he had a successful soil company, Soil's Plus, and started Kracker Company. He believed that you could learn more about a person in those "awkward" pause moments than nearly any other time and would frequently say that so few people are comfortable in silence. A history buff, avid reader, and BBQ enthusiast, with a love of movies from action to corny. Chuck was known for his quick wit, patience, logic, and intelligence. He mentored many and was a sounding board for his friends and family. The kindest soul in what could be described as a towering, intimidating presence was an advocate and supporter of youth in Agriculture and youth going into vocational and skilled labor careers through Career Technical Education. Chuck was our lighthouse in any storm and will be dearly missed by all that knew him.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 24 years, Lynn Kracker, and his parents, Ralph and Avie Kracker. Chuck is survived by his daughters Rebecca and Janet Kracker of Santa Rosa, partner and lifelong friend Annette O'Kelley of Santa Rosa, and sister Lori (John) Linde of Windsor. As well as mother-in-law Janet Daveiro of Sebastopol, brother-in-law Duke (Terri) Yolo of Healdsburg, sister-in-law Rachel (Tom) Houser of Colorado Springs, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held Sunday, September 4th from 2:00-6:00 p.m. located at The Maple Ring; 655 Kenilworth Avenue Kenwood, CA. In lieu of flowers the family suggests making a donation to the Santa Rosa High School Foundation for use towards a Career Technical Education Scholarship in Chuck's name. Checks payable to SRHS Foundation can be mailed to P.O. Box 11006, Santa Rosa, CA 95406 or you can visit their website at www.srhsf.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Kracker
6 Entries
Jan Vreeburg
December 8, 2022
I was a neighbor of Chuck's 35 years ago and he crossed my mind recently prior to hearing of his passing. I was recalling how kind and generous he was and truly a good person to have "on the other side of the fence". I wanted to reach out to him to see how he was faring. I am saddened by the news. My thoughts and prayers to those in his inner circle.
Melody Pearson-Becker
September 2, 2022
Chuck was the best boss I ever worked for. He had faith in me to do my best, and I never wanted to let him down. He was such a kind man, and he was an honorable man and I am so glad that I knew him.
Ken Callaway
August 30, 2022
Chuck and Lynn were great friends of mine. Chuck helped me out a couple of times. I shall always remember and appreciate his kindness.
Mary Ann Mc Kay
August 28, 2022
Sorry for your whole family loss
Julie Collinsworth
August 27, 2022
I´m so sorry to hear about Chuck´s passing. I went to high school with Chuck and met him through one of his best friends, Joe Collinsworth. Chuck was best man at out wedding in 1975. Joe passed 10 years ago. I hope the two old friends have had a great reunion
Peggy Melick
August 27, 2022
Rebecca and Janet, I was so sad to hear about your father. I knew your mother Lynn and I know your aunt Rachel. My heart goes out to both of you.
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