John Lee Krafft Jr, 79, of Bella Vista, Arkansas passed peacefully surrounded by his daughters, granddaughter, and loving wife on June 17, 2026. John was born March 15, 1947 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Jack and Dolores Krafft.

He graduated from The University of Tulsa in 1969 with a degree in Engineering Mathematics. He then went on to proudly serve in the US Army, after which he used his engineering degree for more than 40 years before retiring in 2013.

John Krafft was a man with a big voice, and an even bigger personality. He always had a story to tell, a song to sing, or a book to discuss. His booming laugh announced his presence in every room he ever entered. He instilled in his children a solid work ethic, the importance of family, and an understanding that things are earned, not given. He made sure his daughters knew to never back down and stay true to themselves. His pride in his family was evident to everyone who knew him. John believed in service to others, demonstrated by his innumerable coaching positions, volunteering at church and the bike shop, and helping those around him (whether they'd asked for his help or not).

He loved the great outdoors be it fishing, canoeing, camping, hiking, or cycling. He taught his grandson, John, to fish, and in retirement served as a campground host with the love of his life.

He is preceded in death by his son, Duke Krafft, and sister, Kristi Krafft.

He is survived by his wife Ulli Krafft, his children: Rebecca Krafft, Amy Stallings and husband Cliff, Amanda Krafft, his grandchildren Evelyn, John, Hunter and Emmy. He is also survived by his siblings and their spouses: Mike and Judy Krafft, Don and Peg Krafft, Denny and Vicki Krafft, Larry and Liz Krafft, Randy Krafft and Sherry Carter, Rob and Cindy Krafft, Rick and Pam Krafft, Patti Krafft, Debbi and Chris Beichler, Shari Krafft and Dennis Loame, and many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life will be Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 11:30-3:00 pm 202 SW O Street, Bentonville, AR 72712. Military Honors will be held at noon.