Born in Toledo, Ohio, on August 14, 1929, Elda was a woman of remarkable talent and immense heart. She played the roles of devoted wife, loving mother, doting grandmother, and cherished friend with grace, passion, and unparalleled dedication. Her love for her family was boundless, and she built a foundation of love, support, and encouragement that continues to guide her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
It seems only fitting that Elda passed away on Valentine’s Day—a day that embodied the essence of who she was: someone with a heart so big it had room for everyone. Elda had hundreds of people who called her their best friend, and she called them her best friend in return. She often said, “Your heart has an infinite capacity for best friends.” This was Elda—endlessly loving and welcoming, with a heart that embraced all who needed it. Her passion for life and the people around her was evident in everything she did.
Elda’s enthusiasm was legendary. Her beloved husband, John Carl Krach (affectionately known as Butch), often said, “You can deny her logic, but you can’t defy her enthusiasm.” Elda’s energy was contagious—whether cheering on their children and grandchildren during their sporting events games or organizing family gatherings, she infused every moment with boundless joy and love. Her vivacity lit up every room she entered, and her spirit was a constant source of inspiration.
Elda’s love story with Butch was one of deep devotion and mutual respect. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, warmth, and cherished memories. Butch, a former All-American football player who was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams, and Elda, a champion swimmer who held the 200-yard freestyle record for 20 years, formed a powerful partnership based on love, strength, and mutual admiration. Their connection was an ideal model of what a husband and wife should be—a bond that has shaped their family for generations.
As a mother, Elda was an endless source of wisdom, guidance, and unconditional love. She dedicated herself to her children, Diane Krach, former Chief Engineer of Fox TV; Keith Krach, Former U.S. Under Secretary of State and former CEO of DocuSign and Ariba; and Terri Krach, an All-American softball pitcher. Through her unwavering love and support, she provided the tools for them to grow into the remarkable individuals they are today. Elda’s love was limitless—she made each of her children feel uniquely valued, seen, and deeply loved.
Her grandchildren, Monica (a marine biologist), Steve (a rocket scientist), Carter (an actor turned entrepreneur), and 13-year-old twins JD (a star baseball player and future president) and Emma (a volleyball star and fashionista), and her great-grandchildren, Harper (4), Ben (2), JJ (2), and Sierra (1), were the apples of her eye. Elda reveled in their accomplishments and found immense joy in their presence. She passed down not only the love she had for her family but also her strength, humor, and enduring passion for life.
Elda’s influence extended far beyond her family. A trailblazer in every sense, Elda was a physical education teacher at a girls’ Catholic school, where she inspired countless students. But she didn’t stop there—she would cross the street to coach the boys’ wrestling team at the local Catholic high school, proving that leadership and strength are not bound by gender. Elda was a force of good, inspiring all who met her.
Her generosity knew no bounds. Elda touched the lives of countless individuals. She had a heart so large it seemed there was always room for one more friend. Whether as a mentor for her beloved sorority Delta Delta Delta, a community leader, or through her tireless fundraising efforts for the children’s burn unit at Metropolitan Hospital in her famous Bridge-a-Ramas with thousands of people over the years. She was known for her infectious laugh, her caring nature, and the way she could make anyone feel special and loved. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life and make them feel as though they were her best friend is something that will never be forgotten.
In addition to her many charitable endeavors, Elda’s life was filled with adventure, laughter, and an unrelenting zest for life. She loved to travel, experience new things, and embrace the joy that came from both simple and grand moments in life. Whether sharing a meal with family, organizing events, or offering a word of encouragement, Elda made each experience unforgettable.
In her final days, Elda was surrounded by family who loved her deeply and were grateful for the time spent with her. Her unwavering faith in family and her remarkable strength will continue to inspire and guide us all. While Elda is no longer physically with us, her love and spirit live on in the countless memories she created. We find comfort in knowing she is at peace and that her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Elda Krach is survived by her brother, Ford Cauffiel, her children Diane, Keith, and Terri; her grandchildren Monica, Steve, Carter, JD, and Emma; her great-grandchildren Harper, Ben, JJ, and Sierra. She is also survived by a large circle of friends, each of whom was touched by her boundless love.
A celebration of Elda’s life will be held in the summer at her beloved cottage on Johnson’s Island. Please check back for further details as plans are still in process. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the MetroHealth Burn Care Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OHIO 44109, or the Elara Caring Hospice Foundation at elarafoundation@elara.com, in Elda’s name. She would have wanted to continue giving, even after her passing.
Elda’s legacy of love, strength, and kindness will never be forgotten. She has left an indelible mark on all of us, and we are forever grateful for the time we had with her. For addtional videos, articles, and poems about her life, please see Mama Krach’s Korner on her son Keith’s website at https://keithkrach.com/mama-krachs-korner/. Keith wrote many poems to Elda during her last few years to celebrate her life, love, and the legacy she leaves behind. She loved when Keith would read them during his visits back home to Cleveland. (click here to see them Mama Krach Poems.pdf ) The last poem is a fitting tribute in place of a formal eulogy.
