Obituary of Rick Kraack
Rick Kraack, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and beloved member of the community passed away peacefully in his home in Medimont, Idaho on March 4, 2025 at the age of 62.
Born on November 18, 1962 in Garberville, California to John and June Kraack, Rick lived a life full of adventure, hard work, and an unwavering dedication to those around him.
A proud graduate of Kootenai High School in 1981, Rick was a natural athlete excelling in football, basketball, track, baseball, and even cheerleading. His love of the outdoors led him to a lifelong career in logging where he worked tirelessly for over 38 years. He spent more than 20 years with Scott and Sons before starting his own company, Kraack Logging, which he ran for 18 years. A man who believed in working hard and giving back.
Rick married the love of his life, Tami Mende, on April 3, 1993 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Together they built a beautiful family raising three wonderful children—Blake, Samantha, and Hailey. His legacy continues through his three granddaughters and six grandsons all of whom adored their “Grandpa”.
He is survived by his wife Tami, son and daughter in law, Blake and Nicki Charles, daughter, Samantha Church, and daughter and son in law, Hailey and Jesse Cress. Rick is also survived by his sister Cheryl Richardson, brother and sister in law, Steve and Sue Kraack, and brother and sister in law, John and Marla Kraack, along with numerous in-laws, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and June Kraack, and his beloved sister, Deb Kraack.
Rick was known for his larger-than-life personality, his sharp wit, and his kind heart. His friends and family often said he never met a stranger. Whether sharing a laugh, lending a helping hand, or standing up for the underdog Rick had a way of making everyone feel important. His generosity and warmth left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him.
Rick was an avid fisherman and loved to hunt big game. In his later years, despite being diagnosed with Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s in 2020, Rick continued to find joy in the simple things—gardening, rock collecting, and spending time with his loved ones. His strength and humor remained intact, reminding everyone around him to cherish every moment.
Rick Kraack’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and selfless kindness. His presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten. A celebration of his life will be held March 22, 2025 at 1:00pm at the Country Barn Bed and Breakfast 18500 S. Old Lane Rd, Cataldo, Idaho where friends and family will gather to honor the incredible man he was. Please wear your “finest” flannel and a smile.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made payable to: The Rick Kraack Sportsman’s Scholarship, 21704 S Lake St., Medimont, Idaho 83842, in honor of this great man.
