Richard James Kraetz, Sr., of Skaneateles, a Navy veteran of World War II, passed away April 2, 2021. He was 94. After surviving COVID-19 in December 2020, he could not quite fully recover and died peacefully surrounded by his family at the home of his son Rick and daughter-in-law Shelly.
Born in Buffalo to William and Enid Kraetz, he is survived by his children, Pamela Odlum (Michael) of Skaneateles and Long Island, Richard J. Kraetz, Jr. (Shelly) of Skaneateles, Suzan Sletteland (Erik) of Bedminster, NJ, and William R. Kraetz (Chrissy) of Derby, N.Y. Grandchildren are Katherine Odlum Moye (Loren) and Emily Odlum Andrews (Kevin), James, Taylor (Katherine) and Kelsey Kraetz, Sam, Peter, and Ben Sletteland and Hannah and Mae Kraetz. Great-grandchildren are Andy (Emily and Kevin), and the twins, Alexandria and Augustus (Taylor and Katherine). He is predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Mary Lou Weil Kraetz, and his grandson, Andrew M. Odlum of Skaneateles.
Richard attended Bennett High School and Nichols School in Buffalo and Hobart College in Geneva, N.Y. He lived in Buffalo and Rose Hill, Ontario, Canada for many years. He was an avid dog lover with a particular fondness for Golden Retrievers. He owned and operated a Chevrolet dealership in Buffalo and, along with his wife, owned the Shop for Pappagallo in Buffalo on Delaware Avenue for 28 years. Richard retired to Venice, FL, with his wife Mary Lou, and after 15 years they relocated to Skaneateles. For the last three years he was grateful to the assisted living staff at Camillus Ridge Terrace. He was very happy there and in his glory as a crooner and avid participant in nickel bingo.
Richard was a member and deacon at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Buffalo. For many years he was a volunteer at Roswell Park Hospital in Buffalo and, along with his wife, tended the Memorial Garden at Roswell.
Services are private. Contributions may be made to Roswell Park Alliance Foundation Box 631 Buffalo, NY 14240.
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.
