John F. Kratzenstein, 79, of Brady, died July 3, 2017, in Gothenburg.

He was born on Jan. 14, 1938, on the farm north of Brady, son of Arthur and Martha Kratzenstein.

John grew up in Wild Horse Valley and graduated from Brady High School. John married Darlene Sears on April 21, 1963, in North Platte. To this union a son Monte and a daughter Suzanne were born. John lived his entire life in Wild Horse Valley, where he farmed and ranched.

John was a member of the Svea Dal Covenenant Church.

John lived his life treasuring his friends, family and faith. He loved his many friends who always offered a hand, especially during his last 13 years of deteriorating health. John loved his family so much. His happiest moments were spent at family dinners and gatherings, watching his grandkids sporting events, showing the great-grandkids around the farm and sitting in his recliner watching the chaos of a family get-together. John lived his life as an incredible example of his Christian beliefs. His calm demeanor, patience and faithfulness inspired many, especially during his numerous hospital stays.

His handshake was his word. His love for all was unconditional. John’s prayers were filled with thankfulness and he always mentioned the “Christian way of life” which was so important to him. He lived a life devoted to preparing for his eternal home and he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

John was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Marilyn Rubenthaler.

Surviving are his wife, Darlene Kratzenstein of Brady; son, Monte (Lexi) Kratzenstein of Kearney; daughter, Suzanne (Arlen) Quinn of Bellevue; grandchildren, Josie and Jace Kratzenstein of Kearney, Amber(Jonathon) Sims of Elkhorn, Brian Quinn of Mayville, North Dakota, and Shelby Quinn of Bellevue; two great-grandchildren, Cullen and Raegan Sims of Elkhorn; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Memorials are suggested to the Svea Dal Evangelical Covenant, 1676 Svea Dal Road, Brady, NE 69123 or the Cromer Scholarship Fund at the Brady High School. Online condolences may be shared at blasestrauser.com.

Services will be at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 7, at Evangelical Free Church with Pastor Mike Maroney officiating.

Visitation will be from 1-8 p.m., with the family present from 6-8 p.m., today, July 6, at the Evangelical Free Church, Gothenburg. Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel, Gothenburg, is in charge of arrangements.