Wenzel Kraus

December 12, 1929 – November 2, 2025

West Hill, Ontario

It is with fond memories that we celebrate the life of Wenzel Kraus, who passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, at the age of 95.

Born outside of Stuttgart, Germany, Wenzel immigrated to Canada as a teenager, carrying with him a determined spirit and a strong work ethic that would define his life. He worked for many years at Westinghouse before founding his own refrigeration business, where his skills and dedication earned him the respect of fellow boaters and friends alike.

A lifelong sailor and one of the earliest members of the Whitby Yacht Club, Wenzel found joy and peace on the water. He could often be found tinkering on his Contessa - ‘Heidi II’ or working on the boat he was building himself. He shared his expertise freely, helping fellow sailors with marine refrigeration throughout the GTA and beyond. Among his many adventures off land, his sail to Bermuda remained a favourite story to tell.

Wenzel was also a builder in every sense — he built his own home, fixed nearly everything he could get his hands in or on, and built a family legacy grounded in hard work. He was a devoted father, predeceased by his son Werner Kraus, a loving grandfather to Scott (Julie) Kraus, and a proud great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren. He passed along not only his hands on skills, but also his curiosity and values to his family.

A longtime member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Highland Creek, Wenzel’s faith guided his life, attending church on Sunday and having fish on Friday. He was known for his steadfast frugality, attendance for countless events at the club, and his willingness to lend a hand to any who asked.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday November 15th at 11:00 AM at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home located at 4115 Lawrence Ave. E., Scarborough, ON M1E 2S2. Reception to follow at the funeral home. Wenzel will be laid to rest at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Able Sail (https://ablesailnetwork.com/donate)

His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who learned from him, sailed with him, and loved him.