Helen Kraft's Obituary
Helen Kraft passed away on October 1, 2023, age 103, at Falcon’s Landing, VA,
where she was a resident for 27 years. She was beloved by all her family and
her many friends, always caring and empathetic, interesting to be with and
interested in everyone she met.
Helen was born in Queens, NY, on January 31, 1920, to Horace Frink and Doris
(Best) Frink. She was preceded in death by her husband, Major General William
R. Kraft, Ret. She is survived by her three children Betty Rutherford (Jerry) of
Pinehurst, NC, Alice Middleton (Eric) of Napa, CA, and Will Kraft (Susan) of
Forest Hill, MD, as well as her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
After graduating from Randolph Macon College in Virginia, Helen and Bill were
married on his graduation day at West Point, in 1942, as he prepared to go to
war. They enjoyed Army life at many stations in the U.S. and Europe, while
raising their 3 children. Overseas, she was often the “First Lady” of her
husband’s commands. Helen hosted many beautiful events and made sure that
a homesick Army wife would feel welcomed and special. She formed friendships
with locals, where she relished the opportunity to practice her French and
German language skills.
In retirement, Helen and Bill enjoyed life at their home in Old Town, Alexandria,
retreating often to their mountain cabin in West Virginia, where they could indulge
their shared passion for books, music and nature.
They made the move to Falcon’s Landing in 1996, where they were reunited with
old friends and made new and lasting friendships. Helen enjoyed teaching
French classes for the residents, volunteering in the gardens and at the Johnson
Center for many years, until she herself moved to there in 2017. Despite her
physical limitations those years, she continued to pursue her passion for
learning, reading books on her kindle and engaging with friends and caregivers.
She was always grateful for the excellent care and dedication of the staff there.
Helen’s children and grandchildren will remember the special attention she gave
to each of them, but perhaps most lasting will be her unique influence on them,
opening their minds by sharing her passion for and vast knowledge of art, music,
history and literature. Her intellectual interests were remarkable and infectious!
Funeral will be held at a later date when she will be interred at Arlington
Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Helen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Helen?
Share a story where Helen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Helen you’ll never forget.
How did Helen make you smile?
