The Reverend Dr. Gerhard William Kraus, born August 2, 1956, in Huntington Station, New York, fell asleep in Jesus' arms on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

Gerhard's life was grounded in faith, a deep love for his family, and an enduring commitment to serving others through ministry.

He met the love of his life, Linda Miller, at Seminex Seminary, where he was captivated by her voice while singing in the choir. He was immediately drawn to her voice, and that moment marked the beginning of their 43 year journey together. They were married on November 6, 1982, in St. Louis, Missouri. Together they shared a devoted marriage and were blessed with one daughter, Hilary.

Throughout his ministry, Pastor Kraus faithfully served congregations in Carney's Point, New Jersey; Tampa, Florida; Cincinnati and Circleville, Ohio. He also served as Interim Pastor in Georgetown, Ohio; Creve Coeur, Missouri; and Circleville, Ohio. In addition, he was Chaplain at Meridian Village in Glen Carbon, Illinois, and served as a supply preacher for numerous congregations. During his years of service, he earned his doctorate in Pastoral Counseling.

Gerhard will be remembered for his gentle spirit, calming presence, and generous heart. He had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed reading, and took great pleasure in learning to play the guitar. Among his fondest joys in ministry were teaching confirmation classes and working with youth groups.

He is the beloved husband of Linda Kraus (née Miller); loving father of Hilary (Tim) Berryman; and proud Opa of Konrad Berryman. He was the dear son of the late Konrad and Leoni Kraus; cherished brother of Ellen (Craig) Leinger and the late Anita (Ray) DuBois; dearest son-in-law of the late Arthur and the late Betty Beckman; dear brother-in-law of Diane (Kevin) Miller-Flood, Janet Miller (David), and Elizabeth Beckman. He is also survived by his nephew and nieces, extended family members, and dear friends.

Services: Family and friends are invited to a visitation at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 13014 Olive Boulevard, Creve Coeur, Missouri, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until the Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m.  The service will be live-streamed on the church website at: www.holycrosselca.com .

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Circle of Concern (Valley Park) or the American Kidney Fund . As a service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, memories and condolences may be shared in the online guestbook at Schrader.com.