Loving, kind, caring, honest, genuine
Zach Kritenbrink was a man whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of everyone he encountered. He could talk to anyone and effortlessly made friends wherever he went. He embodied the values of honesty, care, and kindness, always standing up for the underdog and extending his generosity to all people. From family vacations to trips with friends, Zach embraced life with gusto, creating lasting memories in Jamaica, Mexico, California, and Kansas City. He graduated from Ankeny high school and attended Kirkwood Community College and the University of Iowa.
Zach’s greatest joy in life was the time he spent with his beloved daughter Brynlee. Their outings to the park were cherished, filled with laughter and love, as they picnicked and played for hours on end. For Zach, his daughter was his greatest motivation and inspiration. His primary goal in life was to be sober so that he could be the best father possible for Brynlee.
Zach’s career at Wells Fargo was a great sense of pride and meaning, where he not only excelled professionally but also formed lasting friendships. His dedication to his work mirrored his commitment to his family and friends.
Zach’s passion for sports, particularly his lifelong devotion to the Kansas City Chiefs, was a defining aspect of his life. He would talk about sports for hours, his enthusiasm infectious to all who listened. His knowledge of sports was legendary, and his ability to engage anyone in conversation about the latest game or player was unmatched.
Family and friends were central to Zach’s life. Zach’s mom, Natalie, states that he “had too many great friends to name.” He had two brothers, Alex and Luke, and his absolute best friend was Adam Lewis. In addition to his close-knit family and friends, Zach was in a relationship with Raschelle Steiner, the mother of his daughter Brynlee.
Despite his struggles with addiction, Zach’s loving nature never wavered. His struggle towards sobriety was marked by determination and courage, fueled by his love for Brynlee and his desire to be the best father he could be. While addiction may have clouded his honesty at times, Zach’s essence remained unchanged.
The impact of Zach’s love and kindness extended far beyond his immediate circle. In the wake of his passing, stories emerged of the countless lives he touched with his care and compassion.
Zach’s parents, Natalie and Scott Kritenbrink, provided the information for this narrative.
September 21, 1988-January 29, 2020: Age 31
Portrait Artist: C.J. Norris
Narrative Writer: Livia Cohen
