Henry G. "Hank" Kravetz

Age 78, of Raleigh, NC, formerly of Forest Hills, PA, died unexpectedly on Friday, February 5, 2021.

Hank was predeceased by his parents, George and Myra (Amend) Kravetz, who successfully raised a mostly responsible, outgoing and adventurous youth, and was a member of the East Pittsburgh High School class of 1960.  He was the first of his family to graduate from college, earning his bachelor’s degree from Penn State in 1964, while enjoying the nightlife in State College, tending bar at the All-American Rathskeller and spending his summers doing the same in Wildwood, NJ.  Hank served in the U.S. Army in Texas during the Vietnam War but deferred credit to others including his uncles who had served combat missions in World War II and were his heroes.  From there he had a successful career negotiating and drafting contracts at Westinghouse/ABB until his retirement in 2017.

Hank was beloved by all who knew him.  He stuck out in every crowd yet fit in with all of them.  Spending time with Hank was always a special event. His affability was contagious.  His story telling was legendary and outdone only by the tales themselves.

Hank’s passion was living life.  He saw much of the world in his travels on six continents and reveled in every new experience, whether he was: visiting museums and pubs throughout Europe; riding a camel in the Middle East; snow skiing better than some but après-skiing better than most; or attending games and concerts everywhere from L.A. to Bourbon Street to Ireland and all places in between.  He loved his family, live music, exercising, reading, riding his motorcycles, Penn State sports, Steelers football and having drinks with family, friends, acquaintances, and strangers alike.

There is no short summary that could possibly encompass the life Hank lived.  Any memory of Hank is one the holder cherishes and will remember fondly for years to come.  His absence will be conspicuous in the lives of many, but the stories we each share will keep him with us forever.

Hank is survived by loving daughter (his après ski, world traveling, live music, and culinary apprentice), Kara (Chris) Cupoli of Chapel Hill, NC, and his adoring grandchildren, Ben and Mia Cupoli, with whom he spent his most cherished times.  He is also survived by an admiring brother, Daniel (Helen) Kravetz of Penn Twp., idolizing nephews Scott (Christy) Kravetz, Brian (Stefanie) Kravetz and Tim (Chrisa) Kravetz, and numerous cousins and extended family members.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there will not be a visitation or funeral at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate in his name to the North Carolina Restaurant Workers Relief Fund at www.ncrestaurantrellief.comotte, NC 28289-6713 Memo: Relief Fund (919) 844-0098

There will be a Commemoration and Celebration of his life at a later and safer time.  In the meantime, have a drink for Hank and know that he is having one for you.

Arrangements with Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., East Pittsburgh, 412-824-8800.