After ten years of fighting cancer like a champion, Bill died a peaceful death in his home wrapped in love and surrounded by his wife and kids on Wednesday, March 28, 2018.
Bill was born on September 20, 1952 in North Platte, NE. He was the son of John and Barbara (Zieons) Kraus. On August 18, 1973, he married the love of his life, Patricia Schroeder at St. Louis Catholic Church in Glenrock, WY.
Bill's childhood was spent on the family farm in Madrid, NE with his parents and nine siblings. He lived a life of humble service to others. He was a teacher, a coach, a musician, a principal, and a mentor to many at Bison, Arnold, Sandhills, and Logan View schools. Most important to him were his roles of husband, dad, grandpa, and friend.
Survivors include his wife, Patti; four kids, Mary Jo and husband Keith Hier of Omaha, Kevin and wife Hailey of Hooper, Anthony of Los Angeles, Theresa and husband Nathan Schiessler of Omaha; seven grandchildren, Grayson, Emmery and Beckham Kraus, and Crosby, Penelope, August, and Azalea Hier; nine siblings, Doug and wife Esther, Marty Ising, Lou and wife Carol, Marietta and husband Len Johnson, Tom and wife Janet, Gerry and wife Shari, Chris and wife Janice, Kay and husband George Meeks, Pat and wife Joan; his mother and father-in-law, Ro and Mary Schroeder; three sister-in-laws, Michaela Wienrich, Judy and husband Bob Lacey, Kathy Matula; one brother-in-law, Joe Schroeder; and many, many nieces and nephews and their children.
He was preceded in death by a son, John Francis; a brother, Karl Michael; and his parents, John and Barbara Kraus.
Memorials may be directed to the family for further designation.
Ludvigsen's Hooper Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(12)
Lee and Jan (Walters) Judy
Gering, NE Tuesday, April 3, 2018 I knew Bill many years ago, going to Wheatland High School. He was such a fine young man. Always so polite and caring. He had an infectious smile that would light up the room. Our prayers and thoughts for you Patricia and familyPeggy (Lee) Sage
Milliken, CO Tuesday, April 3, 2018 A sad loss to those who had yet to meet this fine man and sadder, still, for those who knew him. Coming from the small community he grew up in, I can say he was looked up to by everyone and kind to all. Prayers to his family and the friends who were blessed with his friendship.Acker Family
Omaha, NE Monday, April 2, 2018 I had the pleasure of meeting Bill several times and though I didn't know him well I know his family was filled with love and support and he raised one of the best and strongest women I know. He will be greatly missed. Deepest love and sympathy to all of you.Margaret Ann Mills
Arnold, NE Monday, April 2, 2018 Bill was our hero here on earth, and God decided it was time he got his wings. What a special, wonderful, humble, and kind man. Patti, you and Bill both have had more impact on our family than you will ever know. I can't even begin to tell you all the ways. Gary and I are better people because of both of you, and our children are better people because of you. You define what it means to be giving people. Thank you, and bless you. Mary Jo, Kevin, Anthony, and Theresa, know that we send our love and sympathy.Jay Walters
Enterprise, AL Monday, April 2, 2018 May you rest in peace Bill. One of the finest gentleman I have ever known. Though separated by many years, I will always remember Bill. One of the finest athletes to come out of Western Nebraska - with a heart of "gold" and a humble bearing. May God comfort his family.Jay Walters
Jim and Joani Arens
Ainsworth, NE Saturday, March 31, 2018 Our deepest sympathy to you Patti and all the kids. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We have fond memories of your time at Sandhills. May God grant you peace and comfort?Larry and Penny Brink
Fremont, NE Saturday, March 31, 2018 Our sympathies to the Kraus family. Bill had such a positive influence throughout the Logan View community. He was blessed with a wonderful wife and together they raised a beautiful family. Bill will be remembered as a kind principal, teacher, member of society.Larry and Penny Brink
Dee Wagner
fremont, NE Friday, March 30, 2018 We are so sorry to hear about Bill, he was truly a delight and play bridge with, we will miss him so much. Our prayers are with your familySheryl Uehling
Oakland, NE Thursday, March 29, 2018 Thinking of your entire family during this very difficult time. May God comfort you as you remember all of the special times you had together! We will all miss him!Larry/Janelle Wulf
Hooper, NE Thursday, March 29, 2018 We are really going to miss Bill, he was a good man and a good friend.Twerp
, NE Thursday, March 29, 2018 I love you so much. Sorry I couldn't fix things this time. Have a great time. See you down the road.Love
Twerp
Chris Villwok
, NE Thursday, March 29, 2018 My heart hurts seeing this but know the struggle is over! Many prayers to you Patti and all of your family! I have many memories of working with Bill that bring smiles.