A Frederick County native and Frederick High School graduate, Dick Krantz was a pole vaulter in high school and began at the YMCA to establish his many swimming records. Krantz attended Baldwin-Wallace College, where he participated in track as a pole vaulter and was on the swim team, setting records in the 100- and 200-meter butterfly, and was a member of the undefeated freestyle medley relay teams. In 1964, Krantz began his career at Rock Creek Center, working with mentally and physically challenged students. He was instrumental in creating programs designed to help these students adapt to physical activity, improve physical ability, and appreciate the benefits of sports. As a coach for swimming, volleyball, and track in a variety of arenas, he ensured inclusion of disabled students in physical activity throughout the county.