Joseph Kraus III entered eternal life on August 21, 2018 a day after his 77th birthday. Formerly of Norwood, NJ, he resided in Deposit NY since 2006. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mildred (Gaglione). He is survived by his loving brother Thomas (Marcella), and nephews Thomas Jr. (Jennifer), Michael (Amanda), nieces Jennifer Rossi (Glenn) and Janet Kraus-Gaskill (Christopher), in addition to nine grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Soon after graduating NVRHS- Demarest in 1959, Joseph enlisted in the United States Air Force where he spent eight years as an aircraft mechanic and a member of the Strategic Air Command. He was stationed in Thailand and Viet Nam, as well as several bases in the United States. Joseph received a Medal of Commendation for meritorious service while stationed at Eielson AF base in Alaska. He was cited for outstanding professional skill and leadership in providing extremely effective Aircraft Maintenance, Scheduling and Debriefing for the 6th Strategic Wings Mission. As a gifted craftsmen, artist, and photographer, he enjoyed spending time building model railroad buildings and bridges for his personal model railroad layout, drawing and painting, and with media credentials, getting up close and personal with many well-known Indianapolis 500 race car drivers. Joseph volunteered in various positions on the local, northern valley and district levels of the Boy Scouts of America. He personally received many adult awards including the Bronze Pelican, the Silver Beaver, the St. George’s Medal, and the Archbishop’s Medal. He was named Scouter of the Year in 1996. Joseph was a faithful parishioner and usher of the Immaculate Conception Church in Norwood. The family will receive visitors at the Immaculate Conception Church, 211 Summit Street, Norwood on Saturday, October 27, 2018 at 10:30am. A mass of resurrection, to give thanks for, and to celebrate his life, will follow at 11:00am.
Internment Tappan Reformed Church Cemetery, Tappan, New York. Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale, New Jersey