Monday, May 5, 2025.
Beloved wife of the late Charles Kraus Jr. for over 49 years; loving mother of Jennifer (Jeffery Smith) Kraus-Smith and Charles “Chuck” Kraus III; adoring grandmother of Brooke Wise, Gavin and Dylan Smith; cherished great-grandmother of Annabelle Wise; dear sister of Kevin (the late Jan) O’Leary and the late Michael Shane (Gladys) O’Leary, Dennis Patrick O’Leary, Mary Peg Babcock, Timothy Brian (surviving Judy) O’Leary and Leo Edwin O’Leary and special friend to the four-legged kind of Gizmo and the late Tyke. Our dearest sister-in-law, aunt, great-aunt, cousin and friend to many.
Born and raised in Affton, Missouri, Kathy graduated from Affton High School in 1972. Kathy met her husband, Charlie, and they got married on June 28th, 1975. Shortly thereafter they welcomed their first born, Jenny, on June 5th, 1976. Kathy could be found on the soccer field, softball field, and racquetball court. She loved her sports. On October 20th, 1985, the family of 4 was completed when Chuck was born. When Kathy’s brother, Kevin, opened O’Leary’s Restaurant in 1996, Kathy was so excited. She went to work at O’Leary’s where she met life long friends. To add to her love of sports, the all female O’Leary’s bowling team was formed where they spent Tuesday evenings at Concord Bowl. Kathy was also a true hockey mom, making sure Chuck made it to all of his hockey games and practices, rain, snow, or shine. Throughout the years, Kathy could regularly be found at the casino with Debbie. When Charlie passed away on July 27th, 2024, her heart was taken from her. Figuratively and emotionally, her heart couldn’t take anymore. Kathy and Charlie are together again. Mom, Kath, Sis…we LOVE you so much!
Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Thursday, May 8 from 3-9 pm. with Funeral Service on Friday, May 9 at 9:00 am. Interment at Sunset Cemetery.
Chuck and Jennifer,
My deepest sympathies to you both, and your family. While I was not fortunate enough to have met your mother, I have no doubts that she was a remarkable woman, if the character of her children is any indication. May you both find comfort and strength in each other, and among all of those who love you, during this difficult time.