Lois "Kathleen" Kraber

Lois “Kathleen” Kraber, 91, died Monday, July 24, 2023.  She was born December 19, 1931, at Dr. Harding’s Clinic in Columbia, MO to the union of Edward and Nellie (Colvin) Wilson.  She attended Grindstone Grade School and Hickman High School in Columbia.  While in high school she also worked at the Crystal Coffee Shop on Broadway in downtown Columbia. 

On January 8, 1948, in Vandalia, Mo., she married Dennis L. “Jack” Kraber who preceded her in death, May 5,2012; also preceding her in death were her parents, a stillborn daughter, Kim and her only sibling Larry E. “Buster” or “Pops” Wilson formerly of Columbia.

Kathleen lived most of her adult life in Moberly.  She began her real estate career as a secretary at Century 21.  After obtaining her real estate license, she worked for Century 21, then Coldwell Banker.

She was a 67 year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, beginning in Salisbury where she had served as Worthy Matron;  Kathleen was currently a member of the Cairo OES chapter.  She was also a member of Beta Sigma Phi, having served a term as president.  Her other affiliations included First Baptist Church, American Businesswomen's Association, Travelers’ Protective Association, Lioness Club, and Sweet Adelines.

Kathleen is survived by her three daughters, Karen Bowman (Gary) and Karol Skaggs (Richard), both of Moberly, and Kristie McGonegal (Richard) of Jefferson City, and a son, Dennis L Kraber Jr. (Sarah), of Branson; 7 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews; Kathleen once said,  “I had three beautiful girls and one ornery boy.” 

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the First Baptist Church, Moberly, would be appreciated.

Words of comfort and support were shared with the family at a visitation that was held at the First Baptist Church, Moberly.  Funeral services honoring Kathleen’s life followed. A  Private committal prayer and burial took place at the Oakland Cemetery.