ohn G. Kraman
September 29, 1956 — January 12, 2025
Rockford
John Kraman, 68, of Rockford passed away on January 12, 2025, at home after a brief illness.
John’s illustrious career path began in auto mechanics, morphed into car sales for Anderson Nissan Mazda, then transitioned to airplane sales for Courtesy Aircraft where he was employed while he was raising his family.
His knowledge, focus, ambition and magical timing intersected when he landed a gig with Mecum Auctions and worked his way up to on -air commentator and analyst. This opportunity created the perfect path for him to live his dream. Cars, motorcycles and travel! He is fondly referred to in the car and motorcycle world as The Professor, or J.K. He was a walking, talking encyclopedia when it came to all things related to classic cars. Even as a small child, he knew the year, make and model of every car on the road.
In addition to his love for family, cars and motorcycles, he was also an accomplished, self-taught guitarist and was the frontman for local bands like The Fury, Angles of Attack and Redline 7000. Classic rock. Classic cars.
John had natural talent and a zest for life. From racing stock cars in his teens, fronting classic rock bands in his 20’ and 30’s, obtaining his pilot’s license and eventually joining the Mecum Auctions family in 2006, he was enthusiastic, and his enthusiasm was contagious. Everyone in his orbit felt his energy and passion and his laugh was infectious.
John leaves behind his loving wife Christine Kraman and he is also survived by his 3 children, Michael Kraman , Nicole Cabrera, Valerie (Eric) Brigham. His sisters Gloria Beech, Lori Weisman and Toni Doran. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Chelsea , Alex, Madeline, Sarah, and David Kraman as well as his youngest granddaughter Ava Brigham.
John is predeceased by his father Sherman Kraman, mother Virginia “Jinks” Doran, sister Mary Pearson and son Shaun (Laura) Kraman.
A Celebration of Life for John will take place on Friday, January 24, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. To send online condolences and share memories, please visit
www.fitzgeraldfh.com.To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John G. Kraman, please visit our flower store.
