Born Stanley Joseph Kras September 22, 1919 to Polish Immigrants Joseph and Carolyn Kras in Cicero, Illinois. One of eight children growing up in the great depression. He dedicated his childhood earning money doing odd jobs at Sportsman's Park in Hawthorne / Cicero Illinois. Morton East High school was a brief stop for 2 years until he decided to join the CCC ( Civilian Conservation Corps) to help his parents financially. His experience in conservation for those years was dedicated in southern Illinois and Nevada.
He had several odd jobs to help with the family until 1941, he was drafted in WWII by the US Army. He was a rifle man in the Infantry division of the famous 132 nd unit of the Americal Division. After spending 6 intense in combat on Guadalcanal Island he earned the prestigious Distinguished Service Cross, Bronze star, Presidential Unit Citation and 19 other medals for his commitment to our country.
A parade was given in his honor and found his bride, Josephine “ Dolly “Rocks, on this day in 1945 and will be married 69 years. He remained in the Army where he directed the security detail for the Manhattan Project as well as 52 war plans in Chicago until end of war. He was soon Married and quickly enlisted into the newly established US Air Force. His dedication earned him the Air Force Commendation Medal for unprecedented commitment to service.
His military service took him and his family to several location throughout the world. His experience in Germany with his new family was the most special to him and his family at the time. The memories, experiences and fond relationships with his German friends lasted his entire life and our family will continue this amazing friendship while passing on his legacy.
Soon after his military career, he was employed by Moser Lumber Company where he honed his skills a key maker and locksmith. He enriched his retirement by cutting keys at flea markets in Chicago on weekends.
His true passion besides family was travel. He traveled the globe and spoke 5 languages and loved to speak the native tongue while making the most of every experience. His experiences, adaptability, and knowledge had created stories which inspired his family for generations.
Stanley loved to garden, Bake and was independent till the end. He was grateful and humble every day, he considered himself blessed and loved his life.
Stanley is survived by his family Karen (Michael) Montoya, Kathy (Randy) Nilsson, the late Ken, Karolyn (Dennis) Zambrotta, the late Kevin, Keith, Karl, and Kurtis.
A funeral mass for Stanley will be held Thursday, November 17, at 10:00 AM at St Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 820 Division St, Lisle. Visitation will be held Thursday, November 17, at 4:00 PM until time of Military Honors 7:00 PM at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 5015 Lincoln Ave., Lisle.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Blake-LambFuneralHome.com for the Kras family.
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