LIFESTORY:

Richard Alan Kraker, age 59, of Holland, went to be with Jesus Tuesday, September 11, 2012 following a 2 1/2 year battle with cancer.

Rick was born July 4, 1953 in Holland, Michigan to Robert and Betty Kraker. He graduated from Hamilton High School, was co-owner of Kraker Tree Service, and was employed by FMB/Huntington Bank for 26 years. He was also a life long member of Overisel Christian Reformed Church where he served as a deacon.

He is preceded in death by his parents, older siblings Terry and Barb, and sister-in-law Corla. Rick is survived by his wife Carla of 38 years, his parents-in-law Rudy and Henne Kleinheksel, his children; Tammy and Jeremy Velderman, Bryan and Katy Kraker, Chad and Amber Kraker, Andrew and Tiffany Kraker, his 11 grandchildren; Elijah, Jordyn, Jace, Rogue, Elizabeth, Kenlie, Easton, Jaelynn, Blair, Enzlee, and Audyn, his siblings; Bob Tucker, Randy and Marla Kraker, Mike and Barb Kraker, Jim Kraker, Lori and Jim Vande Guchte, along with several nieces and nephews and cousins.

Rick enjoyed working with his hands and was most comfortable in the outdoors. But besides his church, Rick's greatest joy was his family.Rick adored his children and grandchildren and spent as much time with them as possible. Every year they would all camp together and this year was no exception. Instead of a campground, Rick's family all camped in the back yard.

One of Rick's favorite bible passages and one that he tried to live by was I Thessalonians 4 vs 11and 12: " And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without,and that ye may have lack of nothing."

Rick will be lovingly remembered for his generous spirit and his unconditional love for his family, He will be greatly missed.

Funeral services to honor Rick's faith and life will be 7:00 pm., Thursday, September 13th, 2012 at Overisel Christian Reformed Church, 4724 142 Ave., with Rev. Steve Mulder officiating along with Jim Kraker.

Visitation will be from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, also at the church. Burial will be in Overisel Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rick and Carla Benefit Fund at Huntington Bank or Hospice of Holland.