Zita (Berndlmaier) Kraft

Zita Kraft (born Berndlmaier), passed away after a brief illness on August 9, 2022. She was born to the late Johann and Elisabeth (Elise) Berndlmaier on December 31, 1938 in Harpfing, Germany, a small farm town in Bavaria. She is pre-deceased by her daughter, Linda Moiseenko and grandson Jason Ruvo. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 62 years, Helmut Kraft; daughter Rita Bush (Scott Bush) of Ballston Spa NY and son Frank Kraft (Janette Kraft) of Albany Ohio. She was lovingly known as “Nana” to her 12 grandchildren, William Bush, Benjamin Bush, Luke Bush and Jesse Bush, Jason Ruvo (deceased); Elisé Yarnell (Kraft) (Justin Yarnell), Stefan Kraft, Emma Marie Kraft, Peter Kraft, Marta Kraft, Hanna Kraft; Alexandra Kirkpatrick (Moiseenko) (Joshua Kirkpatrick). She also has 4 great-grandchildren, several siblings still in Germany, a number of cousins and cherished long-time friends. Zita came to Bronx, NY in 1958 to live with her Tante Berta and Onkel Karl Berndlmaier. She met Helmut in English school and they married on October 8, 1960. They eventually moved to Briarcliff Manor in 1973 and have resided there since. Zita enjoyed the many blessings of her life, including attending her children’s sporting events during high school and college; visits with her grandchildren whenever possible and keeping friendships that endured a lifetime. She was well known for her “green thumb” and enjoyed caring for a large plant and flower collection. She had a strong faith and was a long-time parishioner of St. Theresa’s Church in Briarcliff. She also very much enjoyed her membership with Bavarian Club Edelweiss of Westchester most of her adult life. She made the best potato salad and apple pies, as well as other delicious dishes. Zita quietly and proudly completed a High School GED while her children attended college in the 1980’s. She encouraged a passion for learning and hard work with excellence to her beloved children and grandchildren and leaves a remarkable legacy. She will be missed and fondly remembered by many. Reposing, Waterbury & Kelly Funeral Home on Friday from 3-5 PM. Funeral Mass, Saturday 10 AM at St. Theresa’s Church, Briarcliff Manor, NY. Interment, Rose Hills Memorial Park, Putnam Valley, NY to follow. Memorial donations may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or Make-a-Wish Foundation.

WATERBURY & KELLY FUNERAL HOME

1300 Pleasantville Road

Briarcliff Manor, New York 10510

914-941-0838

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