Robert “Bob” Krantz, a devoted educator, sports enthusiast, and cherished family man, passed away at the age of 71 on August 23, 2024, at Woodmont Health Campus. Born on July 16, 1953, in Evansville, Indiana, Bob was the son of Donald and Beverly (Hemenway) Krantz. His journey through life was marked by dedication to his family, his passion for education, and an unwavering love for sports.
Bob grew up in Boonville, Indiana, where he forged many of the lifelong friendships that would accompany him throughout his life. He graduated from Boonville High School in 1971, a place where his love for learning and teaching began to take root. After high school, Bob pursued higher education at the University of Southern Indiana (USI), and with a determination to make a difference in young lives, he continued his studies, earning a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Evansville.
Armed with his degrees, Bob embarked on a teaching career that spanned nearly four decades. He spent 37 years as a beloved educator at Oakdale Elementary School, where he touched the lives of countless students. Known for his patience, kindness, and dedication, Bob was not just a teacher but a mentor and role model.
His commitment to his students extended beyond the classroom, as he often went out of his way to ensure that each child he taught felt valued and encouraged. His passion for education left a lasting impact on the community and helped shape the future of many young minds.
Bob’s love for sports was another defining aspect of his life. An avid fan of University of Evansville basketball, he was a season ticket holder for many years, attending games with the same enthusiasm and passion he brought to teaching. The thrill of the game, the camaraderie of fellow fans, and the pride in his hometown team were a source of great joy for him.
In addition to his love for basketball, Bob was a lifelong supporter of the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He would often be found watching games with friends and family, celebrating victories and enduring losses with equal fervor.
Bob’s affinity for sports extended beyond the stands. He had a deep love for fast cars and motorsports, particularly IndyCar and NASCAR racing. This passion was more than just a hobby; it was a part of who he was. Bob owned several sports cars over the years, and his interest in racing led him to volunteer in the pits during the CART racing series, a period he fondly recalled as some of the most exciting times of his life.
Bob’s love for his family was the cornerstone of his existence. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 33 years, Peggy Krantz, and a loving father to their children, Kendra and Kyle Krantz, as well as Brooke Wootton and Katie Taylor. His grandchildren, Chae, Rhaelen, Leo, Dillon, and Franklin, were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Bob was also a caring brother to his sister, Staci Nyguen (Michael), and a supportive uncle to his niece and nephews. His relationships with his close cousins and lifelong friend Rod Clutter, along with a circle of longtime friends, were a testament to his loyalty and the genuine connections he built over the years
