Robert James Kraus (Bob), of Denton lost his battle with esophageal cancer Sunday morning, December 18th, 2011, at the age of 70. He passed away at his home surrounded by his family. Bob was born November 18th, 1941 in Evanston, IL to Marie Gatjan Kraus and Christian Kraus.

Bob was a corporal in the Army as a combat engineer from 1959-1962. Bob traveled the country as a truck driver for more than 45 years and retired from NCH Corp. at the age of 68. He received the Million Mile Safe Driving Award as a result of his travels.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Marie Gatjan Kraus and Christian Kraus, his sister Dorothy Miller of WI, and brother Christ Kraus of IL. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Shirley Ann Cowley Kraus; son Robert Kraus, Jr and wife Stacy Kraus, daughter Tracy Mixon and husband Doug Mixon, son Christian Kraus and wife Jayne Kraus. He is also survived by his sisters, Marie Clarkson of IL, Selma Pakan of NM, and Violet Brumm of CO, his brothers Fred Kraus and Henry Kraus both of IL. Bob leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Brittany Barta, Courtney Kraus, Lauren Kraus, Sydney Kraus, and Nicole Mixon and many beloved family members, friends, and co-workers.

A memorial service will be held December 20th, 2011 at 11:00 am at Mulkey Mason Funeral Home, 705 N. Locust St., Denton, TX.