No doubt many people saw him going about his chosen activities without knowing his name. In his earlier life he had served in the U. S. Army and been a state-wide salesman of felt for papermaking machines.

Paul Kraeger came from Oriskany to Oswego twenty-four years ago to go fishing. He met another fisherman who introduced him to The Salvation Army. While enjoying the food and fellowship he had a conversation with the Corps officer about opportunities for volunteering. That led to his permanent move to Oswego and over two decades of volunteer work for the Army, often working seven days a week. No job was too large, too small, or too challenging for Paul. He could be counted upon to do more than his share of whatever needed to be done and he treated everyone he encountered with kindness and respect. His work included driving around the city to pick up donations, doing building maintenance, countless other tasks, and even cooking breakfasts.

The Oswego Rotary Club elected Paul to honorary membership in June 2014, a designation for “Persons who have distinguished themselves by meritorious service in the furtherance of Rotary ideals” such as Service Above Self. Paul Kraeger died on January 9, 2021.

Vernon Tryon

Salvation Army Advisory Board member