Victor LaRue Kraybill, 72, of Stillwater, OK, passed away on September 10, 2024 surrounded by his loving family, after a brief illness with cancer. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, September 19, 2024 at the Strode Funeral Home Chapel. Strode Funeral Home and Cremation are in charge of the arrangements.

Victor was born March 2, 1952 in Thomas, OK, to Paul Kraybill and Olive Kraybill, née Spangler, his loving and devoted parents. He attended Thomas public schools, graduating from Thomas High School in 1970, where he was an enthusiastic participant in athletics. Vick furthered his education at Ringling College of Art and Design, earning an Associate of Arts degree. Outside of his studies, he had a passion for music and enjoyed sharing his talents by teaching dance lessons.

Some favorite shared childhood memories include fishing and hunting with his father and the magical Christmas when Santa left a bicycle at the mailbox; both traditions that he continued with his family.

Victor's passion for family, friends and serving others led him to a career as a custom home builder. He is remembered by his colleagues and countless members of the community for his care in providing quality craftsmanship. Vick served as the president of the local Stillwater Home Builders Association and was well-respected among the community receiving awards for his "untiring and dedicated service." Known for his warm and welcoming nature, Vick possessed a rare talent for forging meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. Much like his father, he had the ability to strike up a conversation with anyone.

Victor Kraybill's biggest joys in life included being a father to his four beloved children. His love and devotion shone through in the moments they shared, from teaching them to cast a line at a local fishing hole to cheering from the sidelines at their athletic events. Victor took immense pride in watching his children grow and celebrating their milestones with quiet enthusiasm; from preschool performances to graduations. As his kids blossomed into adults, his heart swelled with love and admiration for the individuals they had become. The memories of unwavering support will forever be cherished by his children, who miss their remarkable father.

A few special shared memories include Victor's passion for his craft in the meticulous care he took in drafting all his house plans by hand, a skill he cherished. Friends and family fondly recall gathering around the table for lively poker nights, where Vick's competitive spirit and good humor always lit up the room. This same spirit was evident on the golf course, where he spent countless enjoyable hours, whether perfecting his swing or engaging in friendly matches with loved ones. Perhaps most memorable was his unwavering optimism; even in the face of life's challenges, Vick had a remarkable ability to find the silver lining and inspire those around him with his resilience and positive outlook. Underpinning all of these qualities was Vick's unwavering consistency. Day in and day out, he approached life with the same steady demeanor, reliable presence, and rock-solid dependability that made him a cornerstone for his family and community.

Victor's true legacy lies not in his exceptional professional achievements, but in the profound impact he had on the lives he touched. He cherished every moment spent with family and friends, valuing these connections above all else. Victor's wish was to be remembered not for his work, but for his boundless love and selfless service to those around him. This desire was not merely words, but a principle he lived by every day. His actions spoke volumes - whether lending a helping hand, offering a listening ear, or simply being present in times of need, Victor's love and service were unwavering. It was through these countless acts of kindness and devotion that he built his most enduring monument, one of love, compassion, and genuine human connection. In honoring his wish, we remember Victor as he truly was, a man whose heart was his greatest masterpiece.

Those who remain to cherish Victor's memory are his children, Karel Bobo and husband Daniel, Kasey Kraybill, Karson Kraybill, and Hanna Kraybill; grandchildren, Cole Bobo (14) and Cally Bobo (10); siblings, Rusty Kraybill and wife Sharon, DeEtta Holloway and husband Les, Patricia Kidd and husband Jerry; nieces and nephews, Todd and wife Sheila, Kelly, Stacy, Jesse and wife Brooke, Stephanie and husband Nick, Kaylee, Jaime, Sam, Taylor, Bailey, and a host of extended family and amazing friends who loved him.

Vick is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Brenda Kraybill.