Richard J. “Dick” Krava, 71

Richard J. “Dick” Krava, age 71, of New Prague, died peacefully with his family at his side on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at his home.  Dick was born on October 29, 1951 in New Prague to Clarence and Adeline (O’Connell) Krava.  He was raised in New Prague, attending St. Wenceslaus Catholic School and graduating from New Prague High School.  He attended 3 years at Mankato State College before attending Vermillion Community College and receiving an associate of arts and an associate of science degree. Dick married his best friend and bride, Lenore L. Giesen on September 19, 1975 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Union Hill.  They made their first home in Ely, where Dick worked initially in water and waste water management and then for Inland Steel in Virginia, MN.  About 9 years later, they moved back to New Prague, when the mining industry started its decline.  Dick worked with his dad building fireplaces before starting with ConAgra.  After retiring from ConAgra, Dick worked at perhaps his most joyful job – he drove a van for the New Prague School District and his little charges filled him with glee; he was devastated when his health forced him to give it up.

 Dick loved everything outdoors!  He was an avid fisherman and hunter and a member of various outdoor organizations.  He volunteered for the “Let’s Go Fishing” program, instilling a love of fishing in others.  He taught his girls how to love and enjoy the outdoors, going on regular camping trips with campfires, teaching them how to pitch a tent, paddle a canoe, shoot a gun, among many things.  He enjoyed crossword puzzles and coffee with friends.  Dick was a great conversationalist with the ability to talk to anyone.  He was kind and always made one feel like what they had to say was important.  He always dropped off his girls at school with the missive:  “Be nice to everybody”.  He truly lived what he taught and the smile on his face and the twinkle in his Irish/Czech eyes are a loss felt by so many.

 Dick is survived by his wife, Lenore, of New Prague; daughters, Katie (Tory) Johnson of New Prague, Jen Krava (Ethan McKnight) of Northeast Minneapolis, Liz (Eric) Alward of Northeast Minneapolis; granddaughters, Annie & Clare; siblings, Bob (Joanne) Krava of Battle Lake, Pat (Bill) Techar of Hibbing, Tom (Debbie) Krava of Norfolk, VA.  He is preceded in death by his parents.

 Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, February 27, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church in Union Hill with Father Eugene Theisen officiating.  Visitation will be held Sunday from 4-7 PM and Monday morning from 7:30 – 9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home.  Burial will occur at a later date.  Lunch will follow Mass at the KC Hall.  bruzekfuneralhome.com