John Kratzer

John Arkadiy Kratzer, passed away on May 24th 2020 at the age of 22, John’s beloved father in Ukraine was Ivan Shevchuck. John was born on July 7th, 1997 in Mariupol Ukraine.

John was gregarious and generous.  He made friends quickly, even with strangers in a store. John married his best friend Samantha on May 22nd, 2019.

John and Samantha met in high school their senior year at Timpanogos High School in Orem Utah. Their similar experiences having lost parents created a deep bond and a determination to make the most of their life together. They were anticipating a family and John wanted very much to have his first child be a girl.

John was good at using his hands, particularly doing things such as fixing cars, or repairing a recently purchased used floor cleaner. John enjoyed learning new things and was always determined to complete a project he started.

John was an entertainer by nature. When he came into a room he acknowledged everyone, with his booming voice which made him an instant hit wherever he went. Years of performing at the orphanage “Centr Opeki” where he lived for several years in Ukraine helped to foster his skills.

John enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, biking and swimming. John also enjoyed animals.

John is survived by his wife Samantha Kratzer and his parents: Tay & Irina Kratzer. John’s father Ivan Shevchuck and his brother Wesley Kratzer preceded him in death.

John’s surviving siblings are: Anastasia Bertola, Lindy Kratzer, Dallin Kratzer, Zephaniah Na’oupu, Jessica Kratzer, Elijah Kratzer.

The Kratzer Family expresses their deep gratitude for all the well wishes and expressions of love and financial support. Thank you to those who are memorializing John even though they cannot be at the services in person.

Memorial services for John Arkadiy Kratzer will be held Wednesday, May 27th at Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary 495 S. State St. Orem, UT. The viewing will be from 11 AM to 1 PM. The viewing is open to anyone who would like to attend. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the funeral at 1 PM will be by invitation only. All who attend are asked to wear face masks. The funeral and the viewing will both be held at Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.