William August Kratzert Jr., 89, passed away Sunday, August 21, 2016, surrounded by his loving family. Born July 30, 1927 in Green Cove Springs, FL. He was known as "Herman" by his family and those who knew him closely. He was also quick to give a "nickname" to a friend. Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Joanne Vaughn Kratzert. They met at Florida State University, where he was a lettering three sport athlete. He served his country as an officer in the U S Marine Corps during the Korean War. After moving to Fort Wayne in 1959, he became the head golf professional at the Fort Wayne Country Club for 43 years. He was a PGA member for 56 years. Bill was named the "Indiana Golf Professional of the Year" in 1971. He had a passion to help young people reach their potential. Along with the FWCC and the Evans Scholarship Program and through golf, he was able to help many receive a college education and degree and fulfill a dream. The library at the Evans Scholar House on the I U campus in Bloomington, is named in his honor. He served on boards of the Allen County League for the Blind and the Fort Wayne Food Bank. Charity and helping the less fortunate was always a passion of his. He loved his family very much and always enjoyed the many sports endeavors and activities they were involved in. Bill was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Surviving are his children Billy A (Janie) Kratzert, III, Cindy (Kevin) Stephenson, Bobby (Diane) Kratzert, Cathy (Jim) Gerring, Lisa (Tony) Marsh and Kim (Andy) Morken; 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren; sisters Evie Park and Rose Weekley. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 am, Tuesday, August 30, 2016 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2213 Brooklyn Avenue with calling one hour prior. Fr. Timothy Wrozek officiating. Calling will also be Monday, August 29, 2016, from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home with a vigil at 3:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church.