Roll Call Tribute

Ronald Edward Krafft 

December 14, 1949 - October 12, 2024 

Ronald Edward Krafft of Cross Roads, Texas, passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at the age of 74. He was born December 14, 1949 to Edward W. Krafft and Myra Lee Hild Krafft and is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife of 53 years Kara Sue Leinweber Krafft, his children David (Lani) Krafft and Misty (Jeremy) Link of Ft. Worth, Texas, and grandchildren Dylan Krafft, Landon Krafft, Autumn Link, and Cole Link.

Ron was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. He was graduated in 1968 from Sam Houston High School where he excelled as band Drum Major for two years and was Head Photographer for the yearbook. He married Kara on December 27, 1970. He received his BS degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1972 from Texas A&M University. After graduation, they moved to the Dallas area and remained in North Texas.

After an initial employment at Dallas Power and Light, Ron joined Analysis, Investigation, and Determination, Inc., a startup company in forensic engineering for insurance claims and lawsuits, and thus found an outlet for his natural hands-on aptitude for all things mechanical, as well as his interest and talent in photography. In 1982, his leadership side also needed an outlet, and he and Kara created Krafft Engineering, Inc. The company provided expert investigations and testimony in the fields of Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering, Metallurgy, and Fire Investigations. He was known for his strong principles to provide only accurate and truthful findings to his clients and in his expert witness testimony in the courtroom. In addition to his being well respected in his field, his intelligence, self-confidence, and charismatic personality fostered his clients' confidence.

Ron had a life-long love of boats and boating and was never without a boat of some kind. He also enjoyed motorcycling, 4-wheeling, camping, and music. He preferred living in the country to living in the city. He and the family moved to a rural acreage, and his love of driving his tractor was only exceeded by his impressive expertise in using it. He was always a do-it-yourself-er, and loved to teach his children via all sorts of projects. He shared a special bond with his grandchildren and treasured his time with them. Ron was a much-loved husband, father, and grandfather, and he leaves an empty place in our hearts and lives that we will feel always. Rest in peace, Dear One. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date.