May 26, 2020 — The Michigan Agri-Business Association is saddened to mark the passing of Richard “Dick” Krafft, Jr. on Friday, May 22. The former President & Chairman of Star of the West Milling Company, who served the company for more than 65 years, Mr. Krafft will be remembered as a visionary leader who was fundamental in shaping Michigan’s agriculture industry. Dick served as Chairman of the Michigan Agri-Business Association in 1966 and for decades following, lent his insight to help grow our Association and many other organizations serving agriculture. In 2013, Dick was the first-ever recipient of MABA’s Leaders and Legends award. Star of the West President and CEO Jim Howe said, “I recently flipped through the many photos taken throughout Dick’s career. These included meetings with President Reagan, two first ladies and three Michigan governors. Dick was as comfortable speaking with those leaders as he was speaking to a farmer or a neighbor, and he used that gift to strengthen our company, community and industry.” Former MABA President Jim Byrum said, “Dick’s leadership, commitment to detail and integrity will be remembered by all who knew him. His guidance, interest in people and mentorship to many across the industry, and his community, will endure. Personally, his friendship and advice were always welcomed and appreciated.” Dick’s full obituary is available at this link. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, a private family funeral will be held at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth. The funeral will be live-streamed on the funeral home Facebook page at 11:00 AM tomorrow, Wednesday, May 27. The link is available here. Interment will follow in St. Lorenz Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Lorenz Lutheran Church, Girls of Grace, in Frankenmuth. # # #
