Ronald Kraatz, loved all things nautical

Ronald Kraatz, 73, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023. He was born in Altoona, Pa., Aug. 26, 1950, son of the late Hans and Gerda (Noller) Kraatz.

Ron was a graduate of Altoona High School Class of 1968 and Penn State University in 1972. He lived for many years in St. Clair Shores, Mich., and Newark before retiring to Rehoboth Beach.

Ron had various careers throughout his life that included DuPont, Home Depot, self-employment as a cabinet maker, and he was an amazing photographer, to name a few. He was an avid sailor in his younger days, and he passed that love on to his sons. Ron carried a love for all things nautical. He was a lover of food, cooking, and music. He was a creative chef and loved duplicating the traditional German recipes of his mother. Ron was a proud member of Cape Henlopen Elks Lodge 2540. Everyone who knew Ron enjoyed his humor, curiosity, charisma, and creativity. His favorite days were spent by the pool in the summer, gardening, watching Penn State football, and with friends listening to music in the local area. Ron will be deeply and genuinely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Ron is survived by his sister, Heidi (Sherman); his children, Darren and Ryan; and his grandchildren, Kaeden, Ava, Anya and Hans.

A celebration of life will occur this spring.

Final care for Ron has been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.

Visit Ron’s Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.