Henry Kraus

Born Heinz Kraus on December 18t, 1927, in Vienna, Austria, Henry immigrated to the United States in October of 1939 with his parents, the late Alfred and Friederike Kraus. Narrowly escaping the growing danger of the Holocaust, his family settled in St. Louis where Henry quickly adapted to American life. A true intellect, Henry quickly mastered English and within a few short years had obtained a degree in chemical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis.

Despite the challenges he faced in his youth, Henry lived a remarkable life full of intrigue and joy. In 1955, he married his college sweetheart, the late Shirley Kraus (1929-2017), with whom he was fortunate to share 65 years of marital bliss brimming with love, devotion, and above all close companionship. Together, they raised three children—Karen, Michael, and Gail—began a successful family-owned small business, and traveled all over the world, visiting every continent. For the last 35 winters, most of them together with his beloved Shirley, Henry resided in Naples, FL where he enjoyed golfing, playing bridge, growing orchids, and meeting with his international discussion group. He was especially proud of the Decade of Distinction Scholar Series that he and Shirley helped curate at Temple Shalom (Naples, FL)

Henry will ever be remembered for his infectious laugh, generous spirit, supreme wit and zest for life. He loved spending time with his family, where his grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy.

Henry is survived by his children Karen (Lloyd) Bill, Michael Kraus (Arlene Jantz), and Gail Kraus (Dean Bergstrom); grandchildren Stessie (Brian) Millner, Nathan (Jessi) Bill, Audrey (Justin) Smith, Tillie (Patrick) Dowd, Ben Bergstrom, and Calvin Bill; and great grandchildren Everly Timber, Rowan, Charleston, Linden, Lennon, Winifred, Donovan, and Matilda. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Visitation for Henry will take place on Tuesday, May 16 from 12:30 – 1 PM at United Hebrew Congregation, 13788 Conway Road, St. Louis, MO. 63141 with the Funeral Service (Also available via Livestream) to begin at 1 PM. Interment will follow at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road, Chesterfield, MO 63141.

Memorial donations may be made to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.

The family is immensely grateful for all the loving caregivers and friends who assisted him during his final days.