Keith Kraft

With deep love and sadness, we announce that Keith Allen Kraft, age 77, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, in the place he cherished most—outdoors at his lake home in Biwabik, MN.

Born March 18, 1948, in Kittery, Maine, Keith was the son of Joseph P. and Dorothy Kraft. He graduated high school from Robert W. Traip Academy in Kittery, later attending the University of Maine in Orono and the Rochester Institute of Technology in Henrietta, New York.

Keith built a distinguished professional career with Eastman Kodak, Xerox, 3M, Appleton Papers, and Aveka. Though modest by nature, he made significant contributions to research and development, including patents and innovative products—particularly during his time at 3M, Appleton Papers and in his own laboratory for Kraft & Associates.

Keith will be remembered most for who he was: kind, caring, a thoughtful listener, and deeply intelligent. He had a profound love for nature—whether by the ocean, the lakes, or among the trees—and found joy in simply being outdoors, attuned to the sounds of life.

A devoted and loving husband, Keith always looked after his wife, Carol, with tenderness and care. He is survived by his children Joseph (Sarah) Kraft, Laura (Steve) Bray, and Andy (Rachael) Davies-Kraft; his stepchildren Andrew Doffing and Katie (Ian) Lew; and his beloved grandchildren Victoria, Amelia, Charlie, Ben, and Harrison. He is also survived by his sister Paula Jo Mattson of New Hampshire, and his special aunt Kathy Ford of Florida, several close cousins out East as well as many nieces and nephews. Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Dorothy Kraft, and his dear uncle Floyd Ford.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Mendota, followed by interment at St. Peter’s Historic Cemetery. Services will be held on October 16, 2025, with visitation beginning one hour prior to the 11:00 a.m. Mass and burial.

Keith treasured his many friendships—from his fishing and breakfast buddies to his special neighbors in Mendota Heights and Biwabik, as well as many others who were part of his life. Those who knew him were grateful to be within his circle, but Keith always considered it a grace to be welcomed into theirs.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.