JOHN FREDERICK KRANZ,
78, of Chico, died Thursday, March 5, 2020, following a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia, in Summerset Senior Living in Rancho Cordova. He was born February 18, 1942 at home in Sherman Township, Huron County, Michigan. He was the third of five children born to Felix and Josephine M. (Oswald) Kranz. He married Judith Lorraine Daniels December 31, 1962 in Winterhaven, CA.
John graduated from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic High School, Ruth, Michigan in 1959 as Salutatorian of his class. He served four years in the U.S. Navy. John later served eight years in the U.S. Air Force stationed in France and then Chico. Since 1967 John has owned and operated the Penny Ranch on Highway 32. He played softball for over 20 years including on a senior softball league and on traveling tournament teams. John loved his work as a small business owner and enjoyed helping others start businesses. He enjoyed reading, writing, philosophical discussions, comic books, traveling, crossword puzzles, ice cream and a good burger. John deeply loved his wife, his children and his grandchildren.
John is survived by his wife, Judy; children: William (Karen) Kranz of Fort Collins, CO, Diane (Ron) LaCombe of Cameron Park; grandchildren: Julian, Meghan, Heather and Amber. He will also be missed by his brother, James (Debra) Kranz of Cass City, MI; sister, Beverly (Paul Reifert) Kranz of Chico; sister-in-law, Lucille Kranz of Moriches, NY; great nephew-in-law, Patrick Marsh; many nieces and nephews and their families. He is preceded in death by his sister, Lucille Stacer and brother, Joseph Kranz.
A Memorial Gathering will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Butte County Search and Rescue, UCSF Foundation or UC Davis Health. Family and friends may share memories, prayers and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements by
Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City, Michigan
Debra L. Kranz (989) 872-2195
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