Carl Raymond Kraklau died November 14, 2023, at Riveridge Manor.  Carl was born at the family home in Watervliet on March 30, 1933, son of Emil and Olga Kraklau.  He spent his young days on the farm.  Carl served with the United States Army in the Korean War.  Upon his return home, he was employed in the factory at Whirlpool in Benton Harbor and also engaged in farming.  Carl was a member of VFW Post #6803 and American Legion Post #0362 in which he participated in yearly parades with his fellow veterans.

During younger years, Carl enjoyed taking care of his large pond and hosting family outdoor fish frys.  He also enjoyed gardening and making his "famous" dill pickles in the summer.

Carl is survived by a sister Dorothy Fernham of Dowagiac and sister-in-law Jeanette Kraklau of St. Joseph, also several nieces and nephews. Carl was preceded in death by his parents Emil and Olga and brothers Walter, Ervin "Bud" and William, and a sister Ruth Muth.

Carl's life will be celebrated with a graveside service Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Watervliet Cemetery with Military Rites.