John Kraman Rockford, IL Obituary – Following a brief illness, Rockford resident John Kraman passed suddenly at home on January 12, 2025.
Starting out as an auto mechanic, John’s remarkable professional path evolved into selling cars for Anderson Nissan Mazda and then into selling airplanes for Courtesy Aircraft, where he worked while raising his family.
When he got a job with Mecum Auctions and rose to the position of on-air commentator and analyst, his expertise, determination, ambition, and fortunate timing came together. He was able to live his ambition thanks to this opportunity.
Motorbikes, cars, and travel! In the world of cars and motorcycles, he is affectionately known as The Professor, or J.K. When it came to everything pertaining to vintage automobiles, he was a walking, talking encyclopedia.
John was naturally gifted and full of life. He was passionate, and his passion was infectious, having raced stock cars in his teens, fronted classic rock bands in his 20s and 30s, earned his pilot’s license, and joined the Mecum Auctions family in 2006. His enthusiasm and energy were sensed by everyone around him, and his laugh was contagious.
On Friday, January 24, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108, will host a Celebration of Life for John. Please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com to share memories and offer condolences online.