Michael Lee Kracht, 62, of Centralia, passed away peacefully Friday, April 7, 2023, with his loving family and faithful pal, Bella, by his side. Mike fought a long and brave fight with cancer.
Michael was born June 26, 1960, to Willard Kracht and Betty (Kramer) Kracht. Michael was a loving husband, brother, son, father, grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law, neighbor, and friend to so many. Mike never met a stranger and was always the first to offer assistance in any way possible.Mike was a 1978 graduate of Centralia High School. Mike was a proud member of the fire service for over 30 years. He retired as Fire Chief with the City of Centralia in 2012. Mike was a carpenter and recently retired from Shores Builders in 2022.
Mike was a member of Fouts Christian Church and a previous member of Trinity Lutheran Church for many years.
Mike leaves behind his wife, Susan, of 31 years, two daughters: Tiffany Kracht and Jessica Miller and husband Collin all of Centralia, and son: Stephen Marlow. Mike had 5 grandchildren that he was very proud of: Kylie Kracht, Jacob and Aiden Heern, Ryker Miller and Elijah Marlow; his brother: Gene Kracht and wife Lisa; sister-in-law: Anita Offenberger and husband Kevin; sister-in-law: Kristen Thomas; brother-in-law: Aaron Thomas; Aunt: Shirley Hall; and several nieces and nephews.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents: Willard and Betty Kracht, his mother and father-in-law: Brady and Joann Thomas, and brother-in-law: Alan Thomas.
Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with Pastor Jerry Wilson officiating. Visitation will be held Monday, April 10, 2023 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the funeral home and Tuesday from 1:00 pm until the time of service. Memorial donations may be made to Six Lemons, Fouts Christian Church, and Trinity Lutheran Church and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to the Kracht Family. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home Facebook Page.
