James L. Kraus

James L. Kraus, 88, of Taos, died Saturday, July 7, 2012, at Jefferson City Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born September 25, 1923, in Jefferson City, a son of Herman and Elizabeth Kraus. He attended school in a one-room schoolhouse on Algoa Road. James served in the United States Army during World War II, serving in battles and campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Central Europe and Rhineland. He fought in the D-Day invasion, Battle of the Bulge, Battle of Bastogne and the Hedges of Normandy and was awarded 5 Bronze Stars. He was a home builder and owned and operated James Kraus Construction, building over 30 area homes. He was also a farmer who enjoyed fishing, floating on the river and squirrel hunting. On May 25, 1948, he was united in marriage to Aurealia Strope, she preceded him in death on January 3, 1976. He then was united in marriage on May 1, 1995, to Ruth Reece Johnson, who survives at their home. Other survivors include two daughters: Mary Kraus of Linn, Alice Dudenhoeffer and husband Joe of Linn; three stepchildren: Debbie Johnson Vernon and husband Kevin of Eldon, Mark Johnson of Jefferson City, Lisa J. Doran of Beach Grove, Indiana; three grandchildren: Jennifer Dudenhoeffer, Chris Dudenhoeffer, Jimmy Kraus; one great-grandchild, Jamison Kraus; five step-grandchildren: Derrik, Sarah, Desiree, Martin, Gregory; and seven step great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one sister, Delphine Schnieders, and one brother, Cletus. Friends will be from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 13, 2012, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Taos, where Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Wayne Boyer officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Resurrection Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Houser-Millard Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main, (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com