Linda Ann Kraft

Linda Ann Kraft, 66, of Tonawanda, (Buffalo) New York, passed while she and her husband Mark were visiting her mother’s home in LaPlata, Maryland on Friday morning, July 5, 2024, weeks after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She is survived by her mother Carole Denman, her dedicated husband of 25 years Mark Kraft, Step-Sons: Kevin (Maja), David and Scott Kraft, Grandchildren: Anya and Olivia and her “dog son” Dillon. She is also survived by siblings: Skip Denman (Tracy) and Sue Ball (Chris) and Life-Long Best Friend, Connie Thompson, as well as 15 nieces and nephews and 24 great nieces and nephews, close family and friends. She is preceded in death by her father Pete Denman, sisters Patty Krahling and Vicky Mullins, her mother-in-law, Ursula (Sue) Kraft and great niece Leilah Dawn Coady. Linda was born on April 11, 1958 to Harold “Pete” Denman and Carole Groat Denman in Buffalo, New York. Linda grew up in North Tonawanda, until her family moved to Camp Springs, Maryland in 1975. She attended North Tonawanda High School until her senior year, but with the move she graduated from Crossland High School in 1976. Linda always wanted to be a teacher. She received her Associates Degree from Prince George’s Community College, then returned to Buffalo to finish her education with a Master’s Degree in Education. Linda taught at Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, school 192, for 34 years. Prior to that, she taught two years at Saint Mary's of Sorrows. She taught grades five and six and taught all subjects throughout the years, but primarily her beloved social studies. She loved to teach with her elementary team, Linda Greenan and Howie Fisher whom she worked with over 20+ years. Linda left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of her students and her colleagues. She was honest, connected to her students, and taught them as much about life and living well as she did the curriculum. She retired from teaching in 2021, so she and Mark were traveling often to Maryland to visit with her remaining siblings and family. Linda loved sports, she was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills, she loved to go to casinos and play the slot machines. Linda had the kindest and friendliest soul. She will be forever loved and missed by all who knew her. Friends received on Friday, July 12, 2024 from 1-3 PM at Raymond Funeral Service, 5635 Washington Ave., La Plata, MD. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mark Kraft, c/o Sue Ball, 23619 Whispering Wood Way, California, MD 20619 to support a second memorial service in Buffalo at a later date.

Linda Ann Kraft

April 11, 1958 - July 5, 2024