Beverly Kraft, spouse of late Covenant pastor Vernon Kraft, passed away on January 11, 2024, in Lodi, California. She was 86.
Beverly Ann Kraft was born to parents Wallace and Martha Maurer in Spokane,
Washington, on September 30, 1937. Beverly enjoyed growing up on a farm with her two sisters with whom she often sang in a trio for church. Beverly accepted the Lord as her Savior at the age of 12 and served him for many years teaching in children’s and youth ministries and working and singing in church. She was a gifted pianist and soloist, served on various church boards, and directed children’s ministry. As an adult, Beverly also worked for 17 years as a medical assistant and secretary in doctors’ offices.
While serving as a counselor at a Christian camp in August of 1961, she met Vernon Kraft, a minister and widower with two children. After four dates—two of which were with the children—Bev and Vern decided to get married. They tied the knot in December of 1961, making Bev both a pastor’s wife and mother of six-year-old Becky and four-year-old Brian.
Vernon had been ordained in 1954 in the United Brethren Church, and in 1970, he transferred his ordination to the Covenant. Together he and Beverly served Covenant congregations in Stockton, Antioch, and Tracy, California, throughout 47 years of marriage. Vernon died in 2007.
In her later years Beverly was motivated by her love of reading to serve as the librarian at Vinewood Church in Lomi, and she thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship there. Bev enjoyed decorating the library with the many paintings and crafts that she and Vernon had made together. She had an unwavering commitment to the Lord as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Bev’s favorite verse was: “I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).
Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon, and her sister Marie Ann McKey. She is survived by her dear sister Shirley Stenzel (with whom she talked every day) (Frank), brother-in-law Lester Lust, son
Brian (Bernadette) and daughter Rebecca Graves (Stephen), six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life was held on Saturday, January 27. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Vinewood Community Church Library Fund.
Peace to her memory.
