Brian Kratzer Obituary, Cause of Death – Acclaimed Photojournalist and Professor Dies at 56
Brian Wayne Kratzer, 56, of Columbia, Missouri, died on September 13, 2026, following a short battle with cancer. He leaves behind a lasting legacy as a photojournalist, educator, mentor, husband, father, and friend.
Born to Robbin and Valerie Kratzer in Akron, Ohio, Brian spent his early childhood in McPherson, Kansas, where his passion for photography began at a young age. When his father built a darkroom in the family’s basement, Brian spent countless hours learning how to process negatives and develop photographs alongside him. Those early experiences helped shape a calling that remained central to his life: becoming a photojournalist.
Brian often credited his high school journalism teacher, Jackie Engel, for believing in his abilities. He also remembered Tom Throne, managing editor of the McPherson Sentinel, who hired him as a staff photographer when Brian was only 14.
He attended Lincoln Elementary in McPherson, McPherson High School, Kansas State University, and the University of Missouri Graduate School. During high school, he worked as a photographer for the McPherson Sentinel. While attending college, he completed numerous photography internships that helped establish the foundation for a career spanning professional newsrooms and higher education.
Brian began his full-time career as photo editor at the Moscow-Pullman Daily News in Idaho. In 1996, he joined the Columbia Daily Tribune in Missouri as a staff photographer and photo editor.
In 2005, Brian became director of photography at the Gainesville Sun in Florida. He later returned to Columbia, where he became director of photography for the Columbia Missourian and an assistant professor of journalism. He eventually attained the rank of full professor and also served as director of the Missouri Photo Workshop.
A Career Built Around Photography and Teaching
Photography and journalism remained at the heart of Brian’s professional life, but teaching became an equally important part of his legacy.
As a professor, Brian was remembered as a mentor and friend who shared his knowledge, experience, and passion for meaningful journalism with generations of students. His influence extended beyond technical photography skills; he encouraged students to approach their work with care, purpose, and dedication.
His family said Brian lived a fulfilling life and demonstrated an enduring lesson through his example: discover what you love, pursue it wholeheartedly, do it well, and inspire others along the way.
Family and Survivors
Although Brian dedicated much of his life to photography and journalism, his family said the role he cherished most was being a father.
He is survived by his children, Kedzie, Zoe, Owen, and Zackery, all of Columbia; his wife, Renee Martin-Kratzer; his parents, Robbin and Valerie Kratzer of Wichita, Kansas; his sister, Kelly Kratzer (Josh Rezac) of Encino, California; his half-sister, Kelley Jo (Steve) Adams of Grove City, Ohio; his niece, Elsa Rezac; five nephews; several in-laws; and his beloved dog, Charlie.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Leland and Helen Kratzer, Robert Foster, and Betty Wargo, as well as his uncle Randolph Kratzer and aunt Rudeen Kratzer.
Brian Wayne Kratzer Cause of Death
Brian Wayne Kratzer died on September 13, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri, following a short battle with cancer. He was 56 years old.
Funeral and Memorial Service
Visitation will be held October 2, 2026, at St. John Newman Catholic Church in Columbia, Missouri. A rosary will follow, with Mass afterward. Brian’s family has invited friends and loved ones to join them for a meal following the Mass.
Memorial contributions may be made in Brian’s memory to the University of Missouri School of Journalism.
Brian Kratzer’s life was defined by his devotion to photography, journalism, education, and family. Through the photographs he created, the students he mentored, and the people he loved, his influence will continue long after his passing.