June 28, 1932 — December 11, 2025
A funeral service for Duane Kracht, age 93 of Rossie, will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Royal. A gathering with family and friends will take place on Friday, December 26th from 5:30-7:00 PM at the St. Luke’s Chapel (1301 St. Luke Drive, Spencer).
Cards or condolences may be mailed to Kay Kracht at 1301 St. Luke Drive #B4, Spencer, IA 51301. Memorials in honor of Duane can be given to any of these organizations that were important to Duane: Wounded Warrior Project, Spencer Public Library, Little Free Food Pantry or the Clay County 4H Extension (poultry).
Duane Darrell Kracht, age 93, of Rossie, Iowa, passed away on December 11, 2025. He was born June 28, 1932, at home in Crofton, Nebraska, the son of Fred and Dorotha (Salmon) Kracht.
Duane grew up with strong Midwestern values and graduated from Spencer High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, an experience that remained an important part of his life and identity.
Duane met the love of his life, Erneta Kay Dannatt, at the Spencer roller rink in 1959. They were married on a very hot and windy day—July 19, 1964—at Little Sioux Lutheran Church in Milford, Iowa. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.
Duane was a dedicated dairy farmer, known for his strong work ethic and his love of animals—so many, in fact, that family often joked he ran a “zoo.” He had a talent for baking cakes, took great pride in 4-H poultry projects, and was actively involved in church activities and card club, where he always felt he could win with any hand. He found joy in simple pleasures, meaningful conversations, and time spent with those he loved.
Duane was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Violet and Daloris; and his brothers, Donnell D. and Fred Don Kracht.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Kay Kracht; his children, Lora Kracht and her husband John, and Steven Kracht and his wife Kristi (Peters); his sister, Doris Ann Wilson, and her husband Earl; and his cherished grandchildren: Caleb Schley (Heather Hengen), Ezra Schley (Lily Sronkoski), Austa Schley, and Keegan Kracht.
Duane also leaves behind a treasured found family who held a special place in his heart: Riikka Rask, Mikko Kauto, and their children Jaakko and Veikko; Marv Joenks and his children Emily and Natalie; and Mark Joenks.
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