Posted on 01/16/2025 1:28:11 PM PST by equaviator
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. 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.
Corvette was a great car in CA. Not so great in the narrow, curvy roads of CT. Stolen at MIT. Sigh. Can still put my hand out and feel the throw of the gear shift. Husband’s car. I had the Fiat Spyder.
I’m looking for a lightly used 2001 C5 coup with the 6spd.
Just sold the ‘99 2500 Suburban with the 454 in the front and the barn doors in the back. The 26 footer is going soon.
Decluttering stinks. But it’s time.
Great guy. He’ll be missed.
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