Barry Kracht

Barry S. Kracht, 72, of Centralia, passed away Friday, October 4, 2024, at home.  He was born the son of Herbert and Lois (Reese) Kracht on December 29, 1951. He married Cindy Kracht at the Trinity Lutheran Church, on Sept. 27, 1986 and she survives.

In addition to his wife, survivors to carry Barry’s legacy on are his two sons; Keith Kracht, wife Nicole of Pinckneyville, IL., and Ben Kracht, wife Madelyn of Indianapolis, IN; beloved grandchildren; Dakota Kracht, wife Ashley, Dylan Kracht, wife Mary, Colton Kracht, wife Alexis, Connor Kracht, wife Micela, Rowan Kracht, and Kate Kracht; great-grandchildren Owen, Henry, Charlotte, Harrison, Eleanor, Lilith, Connor Jr., and Amiyah; and sister-in-law Lisa Yocum.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents, brother David Kracht, and mother-in-law Janett Yocum.

Barry was a faithful employee of Illinois Central/Canadian National railroad having served the company for 44 years.  As an avid outdoorsman, over the years Barry enjoyed quail hunting, fishing, and deer hunting.  He was a part of the Assault Drag Boat racing team.  In years past, he played league pool and softball, and still enjoyed a Saturday morning rum game. Barry was a lineman for Centralia’s 1969 undefeated Wild Bunch Team.  He also enjoyed coaching his boys.  Barry was a devoted STL Cardinal, University of Illinois, and STL Blues fan.  

Barry might be found keeping his lawn tidy, or making up the best jerky to share, or firing up the grill to have the family over for a BBQ.  To Barry’s family he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, devoted grandfather, and will be dearly missed by all who loved him. 

A celebration of life service will be held at 6:30 P.M. Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia with Joe Biagi officiating.  Friends and relatives are invited to a time of visitation from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.   Memorial contribution in Barry’s honor may be made to the Trinity  Youth Group or the 1969 Wild Bunch Scholarship at CHS and may be received at the funeral home.  On-line condolences and memories of Barry may be shared with the family at www.maczfuneralhomes.com or on their Facebook page.

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