Anyone who has watched Mecum Auctions over the years will surely miss the presence of their lead TV commentor John Kraman, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 68. Mecum sent out a message on Monday confirming the sad news, which we are sharing below.
On our very first Corvette Day at Mecum Kissimmee 2023, John led our group of Corvette enthusiasts around Heritage Park and gave us a true behind-the-scenes look at the auction. He was always great to talk with, and his knowledge of so many different cars always kept us wanting to hear more.
Mecum’s email called him “The Professor,” but he was also simply known as “JK” to folks with Corvettes. John and his wife Christine entered his orange 1972 Corvette Coupe for judging at Bloomington Gold last year, and he was presented with a Gold Certificate. He also helped to hand out awards, as he did here with Guy Larson and our own Steve Burns.
John’s obituary can be viewed here. I had no idea he was a bit of a rock n’ roller either. Thanks John for keeping us entertained and always teaching us something new about our cars.
From Mecum:
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of one of Mecum’s cornerstones, John Kraman.
John played a pivotal role in the growth and success of Mecum Auctions, serving as a consignment director and becoming the unmistakable voice of Mecum since our television debut in 2008. His dedication to positioning our brand in the best possible light was more than a career—it was his life’s mission.
John set the standard for excellence, demanding accuracy, precision and the highest quality in everything we did. He wasn’t just part of Mecum Auctions; he was Mecum Auctions, living and breathing its essence every day.
A mentor, a legend, a Mecum cornerstone, our family.
Thank you, John.
Source:
Mecum
Related:
[PODCAST] Corvette Today #242: A Preview off Mecum Kissimmee 2025 with John Kraman
[VIDEO] Red/Red 1967 L88 Coupe Headed to 2024 Mecum Kissimmee Auction
[PODCAST] CORVETTE TODAY #188 – Mecum Kissimmee 2024 Preview
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RIP John Kraman… Praying for comfort and peace for family and friends who mourn!
I have always been amazed at the information he had stored up there. I felt like he could always pull a rabbit out of the hat with ever vehicle that crossed the block.
Rest in Peace and God speed
Watching Mecum and listening to the announcers on TV was like watching the Tour de France. The voices are like Phil Ligget and Paul Sherwin. One without the other will always be missed.
It’s been a good drive.
I hate to hear this. He was the best in the business. Mecum Auctions will never be the same without him.
A Sad Day for Mecum Auctions and all Auto Enthusiasts. Johns Knowledge and Humor will be greatly missed. Condolences to his Family and Friends. RIP Professor.
R.I.P. Mr. Kraman. You will be sorely missed..
Met him once, very professional, yet easy to talk to. Wee shared C8 stories.
RIP Professor.
From one Jk to another you will be missed I loved your commentating excellence,I can’t believe you’re gone , but God is great and heaven is great see you there 💖
John , I’ve watched you on Meccum for over 15 years. I never miss an auction on tv. Not only was it entertainment but you made it educational. I will surely miss you. I’m 68 also and I always thought you’d be around as long as me. So a little piece of me passed too.
RIP my friend you will be missed.
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