Retired Master Sgt. Henry E. Kraus, 97, Minot, formerly of Velva, died Friday, August 14, 2009 in a Minot Nursing Home.

Henry was born August 23, 1911 in Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan, Canada, the son of William and Bertha Kraus. He moved with his family to Velva at an early age, where he was raised and educated. Henry entered into active duty service with the U.S. Army in 1939, and served during World War II with the Infantry division at CasaBlanca, North Africa, Sicily, Italy, Austria and Salsbury.

After the War, while stationed in Germany, he met and married Hildegard Horlbeck in 1957. They continued to live in Germany throughout the years, while he remained stationed there with the Army. He served with the Army for more than 30 years and was involved in the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War eras. He received numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his distinctive service to his country.

Upon retiring, he continued to live in Germany until 1995, when he returned to North Dakota.

His wife, Hildegard died November 16, 1987. Henry had made his residence at the Trinity Homes since 2002.

Henry was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Blinded American Veterans, and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign War.

Henry's loving family includes: sister, Edna Solheim, Minot, several nieces and nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.

Funeral service : Monday, August 17, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. in Trinity Homes Chapel, Minot.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Visitation: Sunday from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m . in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to Trinity Homes.