With sadness, we have learned of the death of Paul Kraus, the father of Emily Kraus of Global Engagement. Paul passed away on July 22 at the age of 72. He was a dedicated and loyal husband to Jane for nearly 44 years and father to Linsey (David) Smith, Emily, and Anne (Becky Biermann) Kraus. One of his favorite roles was grandfather to Mae and Noah Smith, and Millie and Morgan Kraus-Biermann.
Paul was a high school religion teacher for over 40 years and spent most of those years at Christian Brothers College (CBC) High School, leading students in faith formation and community service. He brought Team Activities for Special Kids (T.A.S.K.) to CBC and led summer camps for youth for over 20 years. He facilitated community service opportunities for students to St. Augustine soup kitchen, drove a food bus to those with food insecurities in East St. Louis, started the Big Brother program at CBC, and tutored students at De La Salle Middle School. Bringing his daughters with him to service sites since elementary school inspired them all to pursue careers in education and service to others. In his retirement he got involved with Kairos Retreats for the Potosi Inmates. From there he completed weekly visits to inmates in solitary confinement and came to see the saving Grace of God in all human beings. He was known to be playful, carefree, and a gentle soul.
A Celebration of life will be held Saturday July 27, 2024 at St. Pius V Catholic Church, 3310 S. Grand, St. Louis, MO 63118. Visitation will be from 10:00 am- 12:00 pm with the funeral following at 12:00 pm. Paul will be interred at Resurrection Cemetery at a Later Date.
Online condolences may be posted at https://kutisfuneralhomes.com/kraus-paul-l/
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated at:
- T.A.S.K, Team Activities for Special Kids https://www.taskstl.org/Donate/Make.a.donation/index.html
- CBC High School https://www.givecentral.org/appeals-form-registration/acp6360d78427edb/user/guest
- BJC Hospice https://www.bjchospice.org/Donate