Major Thomas Lee Krantz

We celebrate the life and legacy of Major Thomas Lee Krantz, a devoted servant, faithful friend, and a man whose love for God, family, and country was evident in all he did. Tom’s life was a testament to service, both in uniform and beyond, embodying the spirit of Isaiah 40:31:

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

A distinguished career Army Transportation Corps Master Aviator, Aircraft Maintenance Officer, and Test Pilot, Tom served his country with unparalleled dedication. His expertise took him from the jungles of Vietnam to the skies over Korea, where he became qualified in nine different fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. His pivotal role in the Army’s Utility Tactical Transport Aircraft System (UTTAS) program marked significant advancements in Army aviation. Notably, as the Department of the Army Test Pilot, he made history by flying the first Army YUH-60 and later the first UH-60A Black Hawk from Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford, Connecticut, to Fort Rucker, Alabama, for operational testing.

Tom’s service earned him numerous accolades, including the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Medal. Yet, his greatest reward was knowing he fulfilled his duty with honor. Even after retiring from military service, he continued to influence Army aviation as a Civil Servant at the U.S. Army Aviation Directorate of Combat Development.

Beyond his impressive career, Tom was a man of deep character and unwavering faith. He understood that while the wings of an aircraft could carry him across the skies, it was the hand of God that guided him through life. His courage, kindness, and wisdom touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Though we grieve his passing, we take comfort in knowing that Tom has taken his final flight, one that leads him to the eternal presence of our Lord. As we remember him, may we hold fast to the promise in 2 Timothy 4:7:

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Rest in peace, Tom. Your mission is complete. Until we meet again.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Dr. Elden C. and Doris Corinne (Connie) Krantz and his loving wife of 50 years Rosemary.

Tom is survived by his brother Ron Krantz and nephew Phillip (Shanon) Krantz.

A funeral mass will take place at St. John’s Catholic Church in Enterprise, Alabama, on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 11 AM, with Father Zachary Greenwell officiating and Sorrells Funeral Home & Crematory of Enterprise directing. Interment will follow on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 in Fort Mitchell National Cemetery, at 12:30 PM Central Time. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 5 PM until 7 PM.

Sorrells Funeral Home and Crematory of Enterprise, (334) 347-9598, is in charge of arrangements. To sign a guest register, please visit www.sorrellsfuneralhomeenterprise.com.