Brian Aaron Kracht, age 58, was welcomed into the arms of angels on May 14, 2026. He was born in Plymouth, WI on January 16, 1968, to Raymond and Patricia (Greibe) Kracht. On August 20, 1994, he married his love, Tracy Dufek, at Immanual United Church of Christ in town Herman. Together they raised two children, Katie and Zachary.

Brian will be remembered for his hard work ethic, infectious laugh, and love for his family and friends. “Uncle B”, as he was known to many, was a hard worker all his life. He was a heavy equipment operator by trade and a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139 for over 30 years. Even though he could operate many types of equipment, being a crane operator was his passion for much of his career, even with some referring to him as “Big Hook”. His career began with Zaretzke Marine Construction, continued on to Gillen Construction and then on to Michels Corporation, where he earned his retirement from in 2023.

He loved spending time with his large family, and many friends. Whether that was relaxing in “the shop”, on his patio, sitting by the campfire, listening to 70’s and 80’s rock, or even playing some Mario Party with Tracy & the kids, he cherished time with the ones he loved. Brian will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing him. The world could use more people like Brian.

Brian is survived by his wife of nearly 32 years, Tracy, and their children: Katie (John) Archer, and Zachary (Pearl McCraw) Kracht; his father Raymond Kracht; his siblings Terri (Dale) Weber, Shannon (Mike) Steiner, Steve (Erma) Kracht, Debi (Jeff) Cevaal, mother-in-law Shari Dufek, brothers-in-law Damien (Suzanne) Dufek and Eric (Candy) Dufek. He is further survived by many cherished nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his mom Patricia, his brother Daniel, father-in-law Tom Dufek, and niece Jill Steiner.

The family would like to thank the Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic, Aurora Medical Center and the Aurora at Home Hospice Team. We would like to give a special thank you to all of the incredible nurses in the hospital and home care teams that went the extra mile, particularly Alyssa, Eva, Sommer, Molly, Jocelyn, and Cerrenity, for which there is unending gratitude.

A memorial service honoring Brian will take place at Zimmer Westview Funeral Home, W2132 Garton Rd, Sheboygan, at 1:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, with Pastor Dale Miller officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Burial will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Brian Kracht Memorial Fund.