Elmer Edward Kraus was born in Friend on March 4, 1935, to Edward and Albie (Dedic) Kraus. He passed away May 18. 2025, at Tabitha in Crete at the age of 90.
At a young age, Elmer attended country school in rural Saline County and Friend Public Schools, graduating with the Class of 1952. Elmer was a lifelong resident of Nebraska, spending most of his years on a farm south of Friend. His dedication to agriculture was unwavering, as he found great joy in tending to livestock, planting row crops and notably excelling in the art of fence fixing. Despite the labor-intensive nature of farming, Elmer's humility was evident in his willingness to work alone, a trait that was often revealed when his nephews found him loading small bales out of the field by himself.
His love for animals was all-encompassing, with a particular fondness for dogs, especially Cedric, Crocket, Rex and Bailey. He also relished the simple pleasures of life, such as his frequent lunches at the Green Top and the company of neighbors who would stop by for a visit. He was ever willing to lend a hand wherever needed and was known for his sweet disposition.
Elmer was a member of the Tabor Lodge #74. In 2010, Elmer retired from his beloved life on the farm, moving to a house in Crete. He resided there until 2020, when health-related concerns necessitated a move to the Tabitha Healthcare facility, where he spent his remaining years.
He is survived by nieces and nephews, Sheryl and Bill Kastanek, Crete, Sheldon and Judy Kohout, Friend, Dale Clark, Crete, Daryl Clark and Scott Lorenz, Crete; brother-in-law, Wayne Clark, Crete; eight great-nieces and nephews; and 13 great-great nieces and nephews. Elmer is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Albie Kraus; sisters, Shirley and Stan Kohout and Marilyn Clark; nieces, Diane Hall; and infant, Debbie Clark.
Elmer’s wishes were to be cremated and his ashes to be scattered. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Friend Fire Department or the Friend Congregational Church.
Arrangements by Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services.
