James Kraft

James Kraft, 66, passed away unexpectedly on January 2, 2014, in Bismarck, ND. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, January 8, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 730 Hwy 1804 NE, Bismarck, with Rev. Matt Thompson officiating. There will be no visitation, cremation has taken place. Jim was born November 17, 1947, in Bismarck to Helen and Harold Kraft. While in grade school Jim and his family moved to California. He graduated in 1966 from Linden Union High School. Jim attended San Joaquin Delta College and Sacramento State College and graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice. After graduating from college Jim moved to North Dakota. His early career was with the ND Law Enforcement Training Center and the Department of Transportation. In the early 1970's Jim went into auto wrecking and repair full time. Jim's lifetime hobby was the repair, collecting and restoring of cars. He was fortunate enough to be able to provide for his family and make a living doing what he loved for over 40 years, up until the very day of his passing. His current project was a 1958 Chevy which he was very proud of. Jim spent many years involved in auto racing in North Dakota, and throughout the years sponsored many drivers. They remain today as some of Jim's closest friends. Jim was very proud of his three daughters. They blessed him with six grandchildren whom he adored and enjoyed spending time together. While the younger kids have memories of going to the circus, tickling games and teasing with Papa, Jim's oldest grandsons fondly remember summers at his house and outside projects. One favorite is being loaded into the bucket of the tractor to paint buildings while Grandpa operated the bucket. As one would imagine, not much painting got done, but a lot of fun was had. Although Jim didn't have any sons of his own, he taught his daughters all about cars. They all knew how to bleed brakes by the time they were 4 years old, by using bricks to hold down the brake pedal because their legs were too short. Each time the girls left the house his words were "check your oil, watch for traffic at the crossroads and remember I love you". We love you too dad, and although you were taken from this life much too soon, we will see you again someday. Until then, have "just one more" cup of coffee and save us a good seat. We are grateful for the sacrifices you made for us and our families and your legacy will continue on for many generations to come. Jim married Shirley Kranig on September 23, 2013. This union brought two additional daughters and one additional granddaughter to Jim's life. Jim and Shirley enjoyed out-of-town drives, quiet evenings at home, and hanging out with their two 4-legged friends, Bucky and Stazia. As a child and young adult Jim enjoyed his years in California. He often talked about camping trips, fruit orchards and car races. He took at least 1 trip back to California each year. He and Shirley were looking forward to going to spend time with friends and relatives. Jim is survived by, his loving wife Shirley; daughters: Marcie Jeff Wuitschick, and their son Josh; Michelle Chris Bertsch, and their children, Andrew, Matthew and Monica; Nicole Hoff Bruce Greig, and their children Abby, Ashlyn, Monique, Elijah and Zoe; stepdaughter, Josie Gienger and her daughter Sophie; Stepdaughter, Samy Gienger; brother, Delbert Amelia Kraft of San Ramon, CA; brother and sister-in-law, Dave and Marla Kranig; sister and brother-in-law, Cathy & Bob Kinnischtzke; sister-in-law, Janell Kranig and Mike Johnson; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; and many friends and extended family. Jim was preceded in death by his mother and father; his sister Carol Lynn at birth; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. The family wishes to thank the staff of Metro Ambulance, Burleigh County Sheriff's Department, Burleigh County Rural Fire Department and St. Alexius Medical Center Emergency Room for the care provided to Jim. We love you, and will see you again dad.

James Kraft

November 17, 1947 - January 2, 2014