Moments of Conviction

Grateful couple remembers Saint Therese in their will

Life is full of moments that can make a lasting imprint. From a special high school dance to the birth of a new child, life is made up of fleeting moments that can shape and change thoughts for years to come.

For Ray Kraus a momentary stay at the Saint Therese of New Hope campus in 2001 would change his philanthropic plans forever.

When Ray was unable to remain in his home, he and his wife Florence researched long-term care communities surrounding the Champlin area when they found Saint Therese. Catholicism was an important feature that attracted the couple to the Saint Therese campus.

In just over three months, Ray’s experience at New Hope motivated him to include Saint Therese in his estate plans. He contacted his son Michael Kraus and asked that Saint Therese be included in a list of charities in the couple’s will.

“Dad was impressed with the care he received here,” said Michael, “even though he wasn’t happy about being here.”

Ray resided at Saint Therese from May to August in 2001 when he passed away at the age of 87. In that short time, Saint Therese resonated with him. Ray and Florence’s gift to the Saint Therese Foundation will support older adults for generations to come.