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William "Bill" Kratz, Jr.

February 24, 1936 - February 16, 2018

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Obituary For William "Bill" Kratz, Jr.

February 24, 1936 - February 16, 2018

Kratz, William "Bill", Jr. Age 81, a man with a body that failed him but with a faith in his Lord that carried him, on Friday, February 16, 2018, of Jefferson Hills. Bill grew up on the South Side of Pittsburgh, graduating from South Side High School, and worked for M.E. Cunningham Co. before earning a degree in chemistry at Slippery Rock College. He worked at Koppers, Inc. while earning his law degree at Duquesne University. As a young patent attorney, he joined a firm with great local history. That firm later became part of a Washington, DC firm, and he continued working between Washington and Pittsburgh, enjoying work his entire life. Bill was a charter member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, having volunteered in many capacities but most appreciating his service as an Elder. He loved well and was well loved by many friends and family, including his wife Louise; his children, Kimberly (Michael) Ressler, Laura (Scott) Garretson, and Matthew (Megan) Kratz; his grandchildren, Maria and Samuel Ressler, Kelly Garretson, and Joseph and Peter Kratz. He also treasured his siblings and their families, Kathryn (the late Ferdinand) Roehlich and the late Virginia (Raymond) Zielinski, Conrad (survived by Dorothy) Kratz and Clara (survived by Eugene) Martin. If you were privileged to be a friend of Bill's, you learned what true friendship is. He embodied Christ's command to "Love one another as I have loved you." He gave generously, lived graciously, loved completely, and worked productively. Friends will be received at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227, on Wednesday, February 21 from 6-8 p.m. and Thursday, February 22 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 23 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 418 Maxwell Dr., 15236. Memorials may be made in his honor to Good Shepherd. Friends, celebrate Bill with either a small glass of bourbon, some extra butter on your bread today, or read a bit from a favorite book.

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Condolences

  • December 11, 2019

    Louise & Family, Just wanted to pass along my heart felt sympathy at the passing of Bill. I will miss our many conversations as he was such a well read man. He also had the ability to make you laugh and not take things so serious. A true Gentleman who clearly adored his family. Prayers of peace and comfort for your family! Dr. Eric A. Freiwald

  • December 11, 2019

    I never saw Uncle Bill as anything but laid back and in control. He was there for me during more than one crisis. I enjoyed vacationing with him at camp playing softball and cards. I will always remember his chuckle and smile. I'll enjoy a bourbon in your memory. With my deepest sympathy, Lynn Dee Schultz.

  • December 11, 2019

    Bill was a man of faith and was dedicated to family. He readily made friendships and shared the blessings God showered on him. We fondly recall the times he opened his cabin to us and others. These were times of good fellowship. We are blessed to have known Bill and share his loss with Louise and family. Billâ??s life readied him well for entry into glory. Amen

  • December 11, 2019

    Bill will be remembered a gentleman and friend. He had such an infectious laugh and great sense of humor. Prayers for his family for peace and comfort.

  • December 11, 2019

    Ruth M. Brake My heartfelt sympathy to Louise and your family. I was his Secretary from 1991 to 2002. It was an honor to work for him and with him.

  • December 11, 2019

    Ruth M. Brake My heartfelt sympathy to Louise and your family. I was his Secretary from 1991 to 2002. It was an honor to work for him and with him. Ruth M. Brake

  • December 11, 2019

    He took me to the cabin to fish and hunt. Over served me. Took all my spending money Cindy gave me playing poker. Snored all night. Made me drag his deer out. Then gave it all back buying my dinner on the way home. When Bill and Bob teamed it was a wild ride that I will never forget. He was a lover of Jesus, family and friends he treated like family.

  • December 11, 2019

    Bill was such a caring, funny person and always quick with a joke. He will be missed.

  • December 11, 2019

    Susan and I were so sad to hear of Bill's passing. We considered Bill and Louise among our closest friends during the eleven years I was Pastor of Good Shepherd. Bill made both Susan and me much better pinnacle players! May God's peace be with you all!

  • December 11, 2019

    Bill had such a positive impact on so many lives in the name of Jesus Christ. I know God has met him with the words â??well done good and faithful servantâ??. Thank you Louise and family for sharing him with all of us. God bless you all. xxxooo

  • December 11, 2019

    Each time he came to our house, he left a quarter on our bookcase for each of us (Susie, Eug, and me). To us it was soo exciting! A small gesture that meant the world to us! Missing him already.

  • December 11, 2019

    With Heartfelt Sympathy to the Kratz Family, May you rely on the God of all comfort to help you to endure the days ahead. "God is our refuge and strength" (Psalms 46:1)