Kraig C. Kerstetter

Kraig “Moose” Kerstetter, age 63, of Hastings, passed away suddenly on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at United Hospital in St. Paul.

Moose was born on February 28, 1963, in Hastings to Robert and JoAnn (Hankes) Kerstetter. One of five children, he grew up in Hastings and spent his entire life in the community he loved. Growing up, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and being outdoors. After graduating from Hastings High School, he attended Dakota County Technical College and earned a certificate in woodworking.

Moose met his wife, Sandra Becker, through a little matchmaking. His brother had married Sandra’s best friend, and the two were encouraged to meet. Their first date was at the drive-in movie theater. When all of their friends backed out, Moose and Sandy ended up there alone. That first date was the beginning of nearly 40 years together. They were married in 1987.

Moose and Sandy raised their two children, Jack and Alicia, in Hastings. In 1988, they purchased their first home, where they lived for 28 years before moving to the country in 2016.

Moose was a self-employed cabinet maker and woodworker. He took great pride in his work and was known for his craftsmanship, attention to detail, and strong work ethic. He put in long days, often coming inside to make supper for his family before heading back out to the shop to finish the day's work. He could build just about anything and always seemed to find a way to make things work. Family members liked to joke that projects for customers were always completed, while projects for himself sometimes took a little longer.

More than anything, Moose loved his family. He enjoyed spending time with them, fishing whenever he had the chance, and traveling to Hawaii, especially Maui. He also loved his Shih Tzu, Gracie, who was rarely far from his side.

Moose is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Kerstetter; his children, Jack Kerstetter and Alicia Kerstetter, and Alicia's wife, Amy House; his brothers, Mark Kerstetter and Donald Kerstetter; nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law, David Robinson, Tom (Brenda) Becker, and Gary (Linda) Becker; numerous beloved cousins; and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and JoAnn Kerstetter; brother, Scott "Scooter" Kerstetter; sister, Margie Robinson; nieces, Sarah Becker and Paula Robinson; nephew, Jeremy Becker; and his beloved dog, Gracie.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings.