Remembering Thomas Anthony Kraeutler

Many ASHI members were deeply saddened when they learned that former ASHI home inspector and longtime ASHI booster, Thomas Kraeutler, passed away. Kraeutler hosted the Money Pit radio show for many years, did remotes at early InspectionWorlds, and always recommended people have an ASHI Certified Inspector when they were considering buying a home, according to Steve Gladstone, ASHI Past President 2004. “While ASHI memory and history is often foggy, Tom never forgot the organization in his life. He was kind to me over the years, and we were guests on each other’s shows promoting ASHI,” Gladstone recalled. 

ASHI Executive Director James Thomas also remembered Kraeutler fondly.  “He was a very influential person in the space. He even interviewed me for The Money Pit when I first started at ASHI,” Thomas said. 

Gladstone shared his obituary, which can also be read below: 

Thomas Anthony Kraeutler

7/12/59 to 2/2/25

Tom Kraeutler, 65, of Oakhurst, New Jersey, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025. A beloved husband, father, brother, son, scouter, media personality, and trusted voice for countless listeners and viewers, he left behind a legacy of knowledge, warmth, and service to his community.

Born in Neptune before moving into the family home in Oakhurst, Tom was a graduate of Ocean Township High School and held a BS in Industrial Arts from Trenton State College in addition to completing an international studies program in architecture at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

He began his career as a woodshop teacher and then home inspector but is best known for co-hosting The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show, which is heard on more than 460 stations around the world, and its associated podcast. Tom was a household name for many who sought advice on making their homes safer, more efficient, and beautiful. His practical tips and down-to-earth guidance made him a trusted advisor to generations of homeowners.

Tom’s impact went beyond his work in radio. He served as chairman of the National Marketing Support Committee of Scouting America. In this role, he provided invaluable strategy and guidance to the executive leadership of scouting. He was a leader of the national media teams for four national jamborees and the World Scouting Jamboree. In 2022, he was awarded the Silver Antelope, one of scouting’s highest awards to adults for outstanding service to youth. He was an avid supporter of Troop 71 in Oakhurst. Whether on-air or off, he touched the lives of all who were lucky enough to know him personally.

Tom is survived by Susan, his loving wife of 35 years; his children, Thomas, Sara and Trevor, of whom he was immeasurably proud; sisters, MaryBeth and Lisa; and mother, Josephine. He was predeceased by his father Kenneth. He is also survived by many treasured nieces and nephews.