Obituary of Vernon Kraft

Rev. Dr. Vernon Robert Kraft graduated to his heavenly home on April 28, 2007 at the age of 78. Pastor Vern was born on August 12, 1928 in Streeter, North Dakota to Ed and Ida Kraft. Vernon moved with his family to Lodi in 1946. He graduated from Lodi High School, Class of 1947. He received his B.A. degree from University of Pacific in 1951 and received his Doctorate of Theology and Divinity in 1980. He served 10 churches as pastor over a period of 55 years. Vernon was a family man, cherishing his wife Beverly, his daughter Rebecca (Steve) Graves of Fresno, son Brian (Bernadette) Kraft of Sacramento, and six grandchildren in addition to many other family members. Pastor Vern will be best remembered for his love for the Lord, love for Bible preaching and compassion for people. He had a gift for hand-writing thousands of birthday and encouragement letters. Pastor Vern always greeted everyone with a winsome smile. He loved having company and visiting friends and family. He had a real sense of humor and always loved to share stories with friends. Vernon will also be remembered for the hundreds of birdhouses he built and shared. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 2 from Noon until 8 p.m. at Lodi Funeral Home, 725 S. Fairmont Avenue. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 6 at 3 p.m. at Vinewood Community Church, 1900 W. Vine Street in Lodi. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Vinewood Community Church for the purchase of Bibles for Christian Outreach and Merge Missions.