Apr. 23, 2024; Holland, MI, USA; Key Contributor Frank Kraai (L) with a small child during the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Holland Community Ice Rink at Window on the Waterfront Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary Stevens-Midwest Communications

Celebration of Life for Frank Kraai Slated for Today

By Gary Stevens Aug 1, 2024 | 4:36 AM

HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Aug. 1, 2024) – Holland will remember Frank Kraai on Thursday, but will remember him more and for a longer lasting time in about 15 months or so.

A public celebration of life for the 88-year-old retired teacher with West Ottawa Public Schools and Hope College is from 4 to 7 PM at the Heeringa Holland Civic Center Place (150 W. 8th St.). Mayor Nathan Bocks will lead the civic leaders in honoring Mr. Kraai, whose $1.1 million-dollar donation seeded the construction of a permanent, artificial ice skating rink complex at Window on the Waterfront Park.

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Ground was broken this past April on the “ice ribbon,” with a target opening by the end of 2025, but Mr. Kraai’s influence goes far beyond that, as many in the Holland community point to his guidance in the classroom, and his spirit outside of it, in a legacy that he has left behind.

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Contributions to the skating park, as well as to Mobility Worldwide, which help Mr. Kraai during his final years, are expected to be taken during the celebration of life event.