Dr. Sumner Charles Kraft passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 96. A service was held on July 23 at Feldman Mortuary, with interment at Emanuel Cemetery. Feldman Mortuary made the arrangements.
Born in 1928 in Lynn, Mass., Dr. Kraft earned his master’s in biology from the University Chicago School of Medicine. He then served in the US Army and Army Reserves for more than 40 years, retiring as a colonel.
In 1963, Dr. Kraft married Patricia Pink; they recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.
“Sumner was a devoted father and loving grandfather, whose family was central to his life,” his family said.
After his tenure at the University of Chicago as a professor, researcher and clinician, the couple relocated to Carbondale, Colo. In 2012, they moved to Denver.
“Sumner was a sensitive, pragmatic, thoughtful and soft-spoken man with genuine interest in others,” Dr. Kraft’s family said. “He was unflappable, laid back and calm, yet could charm everyone with his warmth, humor and engaging stories.
“Friends and family deeply appreciated his willingness to serve as a medical resource, often speaking directly to doctors on behalf of others.”
Survivors are Dr. Kraft’s wife Patricia; son Gary (Natalie Voss) Kraft, daughter Jennifer (Donnie Emeson) Kraft and son Steven (Abigail Hepburn) Kraft; grandchildren Oliver, Tali and Gus; and siblings Robert W. Kraft and Joan Boyages.
Contributions may be made to the Denver Hospice and the Gastrointestinal Research Foundation.
© IJN 2025
