HARVEYVILLE, Kan. – Ray Dean Kraus, 75, passed away June 17, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with progressive supranuclear palsy. Ray was born Aug. 22, 1950, to Melvin and Pearl (Roeser) Kraus, in rural Harveyville, Kan.
He graduated from Harveyville High School in 1968.
On Sept. 27, 1975, Ray was united in marriage to Janet Peterson, in Topeka, Kan.
While farming and raising cattle at his home, Ray worked at the Miller Elevator, Miller, Kan., and Iowa Beef Processors, Emporia, Kan. He later left IBP to build his farm and cattle operation. As the farm grew, Ray created Kraus Farms LLC with his son, Brian.
When he wasn’t working on the farm, Ray enjoyed hunting and fishing, and spending time with family. He was a proud grandfather and attended numerous games and activities in support of his grandchildren.
Ray is survived by his wife of 50 years, Janet Kraus; son, Brian (Jessica) Kraus; daughter, Amanda Kraus; three grandchildren Josie, Kody and Weston Kraus; sisters, Lois DeWitt and Sheryll Crumb; brother, Robert Kraus; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bill and Alvin Kraus; and brother-in-law, Neal DeWitt.
A visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, at VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, Osage City, Kan. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 24, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Wilmington Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution can be made to Miller Fire Department, sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 N. Sixth St., Osage City, KS 66523. Condolences can be left at www.vanarsdalefs.com.
