Francis Patrick Kraus, 86, of Fallston, Maryland, died peacefully at home on July 16, 2026, surrounded by is loving family.

Born on March 17, 1940, he was the son of Peter and Margaret Kraus.  He grew up in Perry Hall and graduated from Kenwood High School in 1958.  He worked for AAI Corporation and Liberty Mutual Insurance Company before leaving to work in various aspects of the automotive industry.  Beyond his professional accomplishments he was widely known in the car lover's world.  He was an avid Corvette, hot rod, and ski boat builder and owner.  He enjoyed racing fast cars and fast boats.

He was a 6-year veteran of the Air National Guard.

More than anything, his love for his family was his strength.  He married the love of his life, Jean, on December 30, 1967, and immediately became a father to Melanie.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who always had a great lesson to teach or a funny quip to share.  He was a kind and caring man who always had time to listen to and help others.  He amassed many friends in his lifetime, mostly related to his love of cars.  He was well known by all the neighborhood kids who would gather for rotten tomato fights every summer.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Thelma Jean Kraus; daughter, Melanie Ann Parrish; grandson, Patrick Morgan Parrish and his wife, Kellie; and great-grandsons, Jayden Parker and Pierson Brody.  He is also survived by a brother, David Andrew Kraus and his wife, Ruth.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call at the family owned Ruck Towson Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 York Rd. (beltway exit 26), on Tuesday, July 21st, from 10 to 11 AM, at which time a Funeral Service will begin.  Interment Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Maryland  SPCA at www.mdspca.org .

A heartfelt thanks to Karin and Soli of Amedysis Hospice who took loving care of him during his final months.  You both made a difficult journey easier to bear.