In Loving Memory: Remembering the Kraut Guy from York Meadow Farm
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to the beloved "Kraut Guy" from York Meadow Farm, Bob Kaiser, who courageously battled cancer before returning home on Saturday, May 20, 2023. He was a respected member of the local farmers’ market community and a strong advocate for small businesses and delicious food. The Kraut Guy's memory will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Bob Kaiser (The Kraut Guy) was born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio and had a deep love of family and community. From the time he and his wife, Denise began raising children, they always maintained a garden to provide healthy, home-grown produce for the family they raised. After raising all three children, Bob and Denise purchased land in York Township, outside of Medina, Ohio in 2005.
Five years after purchasing the land, Bob Kaiser assembled the family to plant approximately 100 blueberry bushes and installed the very first market garden. During the holidays in 2010, the family agreed upon the name of York Meadow Farm for the property they had purchased and the dream that was becoming a reality. The following season in 2011, Bob and Denise made their first appearance at the Medina Square Farmers Market, located in the beautiful Medina Public Square Historic District in downtown Medina, Ohio.
Over the next 10 years, product offerings evolved from organic produce and various baked goods to bath and body products and eventually what became Bob’s specialty: sauerkraut. Inspired by the work of Sandor Katz and endless experimentation, Bob mastered the ancient art of lacto-fermentation, creating a tangy and healthy treat that everyone grew to love. By the end of the first season he introduced his probiotic-rich fermented foods at the farmers’ market, and affectionately acquired the nickname “The Kraut Guy.”
The Kraut Guy's dedication to his craft was evident in every jar of sauerkraut he made. Relentless experimentation eventually led to six different varieties of sauerkraut, pickles, and most recently, kimchi. He paid close attention to every detail, ensuring that his ferments were of the highest quality. Because of his hard work and commitment to his work, the Kraut Guy became a respected figure in the local food community.
But Bob was more than just a farmers’ market vendor and sauerkraut maker. He was a kind and generous person who cared deeply about his family and his community. He believed in the power of education and always took the time to discuss the process and the art of fermentation with his customers. Bob’s warm smile and enthusiasm for his work inspired many people and left a lasting impression on those he met.
Although we are deeply saddened by the loss of the Kraut Guy, his legacy lives on through the land and businesses operating at York Meadow Farm and the countless lives he touched. His unwavering commitment to his family and the joy he brought to the community will always be remembered.
Bob Kaiser is survived by his loving wife, Denise, their three children, and a community that will forever be grateful for his vision and dedication to delicious, healthy, and probiotic-rich fermented foods. Bob Kaiser, the Kraut Guy from York Meadow Farm, will be greatly missed but never forgotten. His passion, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his craft will continue as his son continues the tradition and recipes he created.
May his legacy remind us all of the impact one person can have and the importance of family and community.
A funeral mass will be held at Saint Raphael Catholic Church, 525 Dover Center Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140 on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 10:30am followed by a reception and luncheon in the Community Room.
In lieu of flowers, financial Tribute Gifts can be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve on behalf of Robert J. Kaiser, Jr.
Bob’s official obituary can be seen here: https://www.waitefuneralhome.com/obituary/robert-kaiser
Many thanks to Kate Schoen (Kaiser) for such a beautifully written memorial.
