Gary Wayne Kratz

Gary Wayne Kratz, 81, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Odessa Health Care Center, surrounded by his loving family.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 100 Hwy. OO, Odessa, MO 64076. A memorial service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church. Memories of Gary and condolences for his family may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524.

Gary was born on January 23, 1945, in Higginsville, Missouri, to George Burgess and Lydia Grace (Duffy) Kratz. He graduated from Lafayette County C-1 High School in Higginsville in 1963. On April 18, 1964, he married the love of his life, Janice Kay Barker, in Odessa, and together they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage.

Gary dedicated many years of service to Kansas City Southern Railroad at the Odessa Hub, where he held various positions before retiring as a foreman. He was a devoted member of First Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon. Gary was also a member of the Odessa Bass Masters and found great joy in fishing, quail hunting, and spending time at Pomme de Terre Lake.

Gary had a deep passion for coaching youth sports, including little league baseball, basketball, and football. He was known for his competitive spirit and his desire to help others do their very best. Above all, Gary cherished time spent with his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janice Kratz of Odessa, Missouri; three children, Roger (Wendy) Kratz of Odessa, Missouri, Steven (Michelle) Kratz of Grain Valley, Missouri, and Christi (Daniel) Burd of Grain Valley, Missouri; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Larry (Gladys) Kratz of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and Terry (Judy) Kratz of Blue Springs, Missouri; a brother-in-law, Rusty Ludlam of Lake City, Florida; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Ludlam.

Gary will be remembered for his strong faith, dedication to his family and church, and the lasting impact he made on those he coached, worked with, and loved.