Thomas “Tom” Louis Kraus

“If you can fill the unforgiving minute

With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run,

Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,

And-which is more-you’ll be a Man, my son!”

-Rudyard Kipling

Thomas “Tom” Louis Kraus, born on March 9, 1949, in Bay Shore, NY to Alfred and Frances Kraus, went home to be with the Lord on January 28, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, with his family by his side. He was 75 years old. 

Tom was a long-time resident of Shalimar, FL, but due to his long tenure in the United States Air Force, he also lived in many places before settling there. Through those years of service, Tom was awarded numerous military medals before retiring honorably. On March 13, 1982 he wed Huicha and went on to treasure their 29 years of marriage together before her passing in 2011. 

Tom was very proud of his military career and later went on to become a small business owner. He and his daughter, Amanda, spent many hours at his bookstore together, and those days are now cherished memories. His love for the beautiful Emerald Coast shone through his later work with the Tourist Development Center and his unwavering commitment to beach clean-up projects. More than anything, though, Tom loved his family. His family takes great comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved wife in Heaven.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, his dear wife, Huicha, as well as siblings Alfred and John. Tom is survived by his daughter Amanda (Chris), grandchildren Emma and Logan, siblings Robert (Joan) and Kathleen “Kay”, and many other adored in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He will be missed by all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 1200 Valparaiso Blvd., Niceville, FL, on Friday, February 7, at 10 a.m. The family will receive friends a half hour prior to the Mass. A graveside committal will follow mass at Beal Memorial Cemetery, 316 Beal Pkwy. NW, Fort Walton Beach, FL.

Flowers are appreciated but not encouraged. Instead, the family suggests contributions be made to Holy Name of Jesus Building Fund in Tom’s memory. Donations can be sent directly to the church at their address above.

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home. To share memories, express condolences, and sign the on-line guestbook, please visit www.daviswatkins.com.