Obituary of Karl L. Dratz

OAK HILL – Karl L. Dratz, 61, passed away Tuesday night, August 23, 2016 in the Community Hospice Inn at St. Peter's Hospital after a brief illness. Born in Mineola on April 8, 1955, Karl and his parents moved to Greene County when he was young. He was a graduate of Greenville Central School, class of 1973, and the Culinary Institute of America, class of 1975. Karl was a certified executive chef with international experience, working in many hotels, resorts, and restaurants, including owning and operating Karl's Oak Hill Kitchen for 10 years. He served as a culinary diplomat to the Soviet Union, and was a member of Les Amis d'Escoffier and the American Culinary Federation, winning the Judges Special Award in 1992, and the Auguste Escoffier Medalle D'Honneur in 1994. Karl is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Diane C. Trimboli Dratz; his devoted mother, Gloria Mae Jansen Dratz; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Karl was predeceased by his father, Martin L. Dratz, on November 1, 2015. Calling hours will be Friday, August 26, from 4 to 8 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. A memorial service will be conducted on Saturday, August 27 at 11 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 7761 State Route 81, Oak Hill, followed by a reception in the church hall. Burial of his ashes will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Oak Hill, NY 12460 will be appreciated. Condolences may be posted at ajcunninghamfh.com.