Ronald Wayne Kraft

RONALD WAYNE KRAFT

Ronald Wayne Kraft, known to most as “Uncle” passed away at his residence in Cortez, CO. on May 26th, 2022 at the age of 76 years old. Ron was born on March 10, 1946, the youngest of three boys to Carl Emery Kraft and Ina Mildred Hawkins in Denver, CO.

Ron was a man of honor, compassion, and great strength. His strength would shine through in his years to come as he battled cancer, and a life threatening motorcycle accident. His determination to return to normalcy was unmatched. He made us all very proud.

Ron was drafted into the United States Army shortly after graduating from high school and was stationed in Germany to serve our great country.

In 1988 Ron married the love of his life, Nancy Seikkula, becoming an immediate father to Lisa and Matthew Seikkula. His circumstances changed in 2007, resulting in his move from Durango to Cortez, where he made his home. When he was diagnosed with cancer in 2014 Nancy was by his side helping to nurse him back to health. Ron began his career in Telecommunications working for Mountain Bell and retired with Qwest after 34 years. It was during those years of working for the phone company that he developed and cherished many life- long friendships.

Ron loved lifting weights, doing numerous kinds of puzzles and being in the outdoors. He especially enjoyed hunting and camping on his property in Cottonwood. He took every opportunity he had to visit his little piece of paradise, and he loved to share this property with all who shared his love of hunting and camping. We have many fond memories with Ron (Dad, Grandpa, Uncle and dear friend) as a family there. He was also an avid Colorado sports fan, of which he would often invite friends and family over to watch with him. Ron had a unique love for anyone that came into his life and he into their lives as well. He will be dearly missed.

Ron is survivied by his children, Lisa (Jeff) Ward of Durango, Colo; Matthew (Katherine) Seikkula of Panama City Beach, FL; eight grandchildren, Carter Ward, Clayton Ward, Grant Ward, Dane Ward, John Navarro, Justin Seikkula, Cassandra Seikkula, and Jarod Seikkula; several nieces and nephews, Steve (Brenda) Kraft of Alamosa, Colo; Karen (John) Randolph of Cortez, Colo; De Ina (Robert) Robson of Boron, CA; Randy (Sadie) Kraft of Mesa, AZ, Joni (Bruce) White of Cortez, Colo;, Roger (Debbie) Kraft of Draper, UT , Brian (Buffy) Kraft of UT.
He was preceded in death by his parents; both brothers, Stephen and Roger Kraft; and nephews, Terry and Dale Kraft.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at a later date.