Clifford E. Kraai of Cadillac passed away Monday morning, April 29, 2019 at his home. He was 83. Cliff was born on October 21, 1935 in Zeeland, Michigan to John & Elizabeth (Raterink) Kraai and they preceded him in death.
Cliff graduated from Zeeland High School in 1953 and while in his senior year he served in the United States Navy Reserves. After graduation he was employed at Walter’s Garden in Zeeland and later entered the United States Army and served during the Korean War. Returning from his service to our country he went back to work for Walter’s Gardens.
In the early 1960’s he moved to the Cadillac area and was employed at Cadillac Candy and also owned & operated Cliff’s Specialties for 40 years. Cliff also worked for Regis Inventory Co. and Godfrey Motors driving cars for them for 20 years. He was a member of the Cadillac Christian Reformed Church for many years. He enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Missaukee Golf Club and loved bird and rabbit hunting and occasionally deer hunting.
On November 19, 1960 in Cadillac he married the former Darlene M. Peterson and she survives him along with their son, Brad Kraai of Lake City and Brad’s dog Trisca; 4 siblings: Crystal Baum of Grand Rapids, Betty Kamphuis of Branch, Robert (Vada) Kraai of Holland and Jerry (Delores) Kraai of Irons; many in-laws and nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by 5 siblings: Lee Moffat, Gladys Bos, Joan Zwagerman, Winnie McKay and Norie Bennett.
Funeral services will be held 2:00PM Friday, May 3, 2019 at the Cadillac Christian Reformed Church with Pastor Paul Lewis officiating and full military rites under the auspices of the Cadillac Area Honor Guard. Burial will be at Lucas Cemetery in Missaukee County. Friends may meet the family from 12 noon until services at the church.