He was not known much in the hot rod or muscle car community.
But - to the town of Iola, WI and for tens of thousands of older car lovers - he was beloved.
I was privileged to meet Mr. Krause many years ago in Iola, WI.
I picked up a pair of military jeeps & a trailer he had sold.
I arrived when his office opened - spent coffee time at the conference table with him & some co-workers.
He showed me his latest project - cataloging state bank issued paper currency.
Then we loaded - he insisted on helping.
He gave me a copy of his autobiography.
Then he was off to the local rest home where he kept a residence for his afternoon nap (he donated generously to having it built).
I had time so I walked the small downtown of Iola.
Everywhere I went - everyone had a story to tell about Chet and his kindness.
Years earlier he had turned over his publishing business to the employees.
I was touched.
I bought him a gift certificate at a small restaurant he frequented - dropped it by his office on my way out of town.
I read his autobiography on my way to California to drop off the jeeps & gave it to the new owner.
Mr. Krause left the car community last Saturday.
He will be missed ....
What a full & generous life Mr. Krause lived .... :-)
Story link here:
<span style="font-weight: bold">Mr. Chet Krause Passes</span>
Jim