KRATKY, Barbara Ann “Barb” (Safranek)

Barbara Ann “Barb” (Safranek) Kratky June 28, 1937– Jul 13, 2016 Barbara Ann “Barb” (Safranek) Kratky ended her struggle with Alzheimer’s on July 13, 2016. St. Peter is probably quite busy just now, as Barb never met anyone new without striking up a long conversation. Born on June 28, 1937, the oldest daughter of Charles and Blanche Safranek, Barb dearly loved her native Omaha and resided there until moving to Des Moines in 2015. She was raised in South Omaha, graduating from St. Mary High School in 1955. Barb married Raymond Kratky in 1958, and was a devoted mother to their four children: Laurie, John, Gary and Matt. She was also a wonderful “Babi” to her grandchildren. Her care and concern for family knew no bounds, always including siblings, in-laws, multiple generations of nieces and nephews—and all of their families as well. Barb loved playing hostess for a big group, and her home on Meadow Drive was a favorite venue for gatherings of the extended family. There was always more food in the kitchen than anyone could possibly eat, and Barb beautifully set her dining tables days in advance of any holiday. Everyone was welcome, including non-family “strays” that Barb so often befriended. In addition to raising her family, Barb worked in the accounting department of the Metropolitan Utilities District for over 30 years, retiring in October of 1997. She then embarked on a 13-year career as nanny for the Griffin family, “retiring” for the final time in 2011. Until her very last years, Barb had the gift of gab. Any stranger standing near her was on the receiving end of a lively conversation and usually left as a new friend. Barb loved children of all ages, and bargain shopping. Ever a music fan, Barb also enjoyed performing with the Happy Faces choral group. Although Barb never realized her dream of owning a lake or mountain cabin, the Estes Park YMCA was a favorite summer destination, and Barb hiked in the Rockies there with family members well into her sixties. She also loved vacations with her sisters and with Laurie’s family—or with anyone else who would let her tag along. The destination didn’t matter; Barb just liked to “go.” Until Alzheimer’s constrained wanderlust, Barb travelled extensively across the U.S. and made multiple trips to Europe and Thailand, as well as to Canada, Mexico, Russia and China. Barb was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Ray, and by brothers: Chuck and Jerry, and brother-in-law Steve Driml. She is survived by her children: Laurie (Matt) Doré of Des Moines, John (Sophia) Kratky of Omaha, Gary Kratky of West Des Moines, and Matt (Tik) Kratky of Jakarta, Indonesia, as well as her cherished grandchildren: Emilie, Anna and Peter Doré, Jessica and Elizabeth Kratky, and Jeremy Mostek and Tami Goff. Surviving Omaha relations include sisters, Rita Schneider and Marrianne Driml; in-laws, Jan and JoAnn Kratky and Rita and Mary Safranek; and many nieces and nephews and their families. The family will receive friends Friday, July 15th, from 5pm-7pm, with VIGIL SERVICE at 7pm, all at the Bel Air Chapel, 12100 W. Center Rd. MEMORIAL MASS and luncheon, Saturday, July 16th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 1920 N 102nd St. Contributions in Barb’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

HEAFEY-HOFFMANN DWORAK & CUTLER BEL AIR CHAPEL 12100 West Center Road Omaha, Nebraska 68114 (402) 391-3900