Senior Deputy Timothy Kratzer Sr. passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026. Tim’s smile brightened every room he entered, and his kindness brought comfort to those fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his community, and the profession he loved.

Tim was a gifted athlete who excelled in softball, baseball, basketball, and tennis. His talent on the basketball court earned him a scholarship to West Palm Beach. Beyond his own achievements, Tim found great joy in mentoring young athletes. He coached Little League teams to championship victories and later successfully coached a minor league baseball team, leaving a lasting impact on countless young players.

Under the guidance of Gene Cross, Tim earned his second-degree black belt in Ronin Goju Karate. He deeply valued the discipline, respect, and self-control that karate instilled in him and held tremendous admiration for Gene, whom he respected both as an instructor and mentor.

Tim spent more than thirty years in the automotive industry, where his leadership abilities and strong work ethic quickly became evident. At only twenty years old, he was promoted to Assistant Used Car Manager. Throughout his career, he also served as a Finance Manager and ultimately as a sales Manager. Tim genuinely loved cars and took pride in helping members of the community find vehicles that suited their needs and families.

Above all else, Tim loved Arcadia and the people who called it home. From a young age, he dreamed of serving in law enforcement. Although his first opportunity at age eighteen did not work out due to limited openings, fate had other plans. A former Air Force Security Policeman visited the dealership to purchase a vehicle and invited Tim to participate in a ride-along. That single opportunity sparked a lifelong commitment to service. Tim joined the Auxiliary, where he met every standard required while continuing his education and working full-time in the automotive business.

After the dealership changed ownership, the Sheriff Potter sent Tim to the academy to complete his official law enforcement training. He was overjoyed to officially become a deputy sheriff and proudly dedicated himself to serving the citizens of his community. He continued to grow in his profession under the guidance of Captain Tim Hilgeman, whose patience and mentorship helped shape Tim throughout his law enforcement career. Through that mentorship, Tim mastered many aspects of the profession, including radio communications and courthouse operations.

Tim especially loved his work at the courthouse and took great pride in serving as a teen driver instructor, where he was able to train and mentor students in defensive driving.

Tim is survived by his loving wife, Maureen; daughter, Olivia; son, Tim Jr.; mother, Madeline; brother, Matt; and sister-in-law, Amber.

Tim’s legacy of kindness, dedication, mentorship, and service will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

Services will be held on Friday June 5, 2026, at 10:00AM at the Turner Center in Arcadia, Florida.