Joan Kraeft

Joan Kraeft passed away on October 25, 2024.  She had a welcoming, generous, and loving spirit that touched all of those who were fortunate enough to cross her path. 

Joan was born in Staten Island, New York, October 29th 1931, to Raymond and Lucille Doyle. Her siblings consisted of 3 sisters- Mary, Julie and Lucille, who have preceded her in death,  and one brother, Raymond, who lives in Staten Island.  She described her childhood as magical. Her love of the church, reading and animals topped her favorites list. She met the love of her life, Robert Kraeft in 1950. They married on May 5, 1951. They had 3 children over the following 5 years, Deborah, Robert and Susan. Joan and Robert were blessed with 6 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Joan placed her faith in God as the cornerstone of the lives of the entire family, with the church at its center.  

The family moved to Colorado in 1972.  Joan procured a position at TCI as a bookkeeper and climbed into management within a short period of time. She loved numbers and working with people.  Joan was also passionate about volunteering.  Her work over the years with Saint Thomas More Catholic Church was testament to this fact.  She volunteered for the food bank, the church library, Right to Life Committee, and others. She looked for the best in everyone and everything.  Joan often reflected on one of the most wonderful blessings in her life, when her husband, Robert, became a member of the Catholic Church. Robert, after building the original Adoration Chapel at Saint Thomas More, asked Father Walsh if he could assist him in becoming a Catholic. Father Walsh had no idea Robert was not Catholic and certainly supported him in his journey. Robert was welcomed into full communion with the Catholic Church, April 2, 1994, by his mentor, Father Michael Walsh, with Joan as his sponsor. 

Her light of love, faith, kindness and generosity, shone brightly until her last breath.  Joan is loved and missed by many, especially her family. She is resting in the peace and love of our Lord joining her husband Robert and daughter Deb.