Kevin James Kreger, 68, of New Prague, died November 2, 2015, in San Gimignano, Italy while traveling on a long anticipated vacation with his wife, Ann, and friends. Kevin was born April 10, 1947 in Lakefield, MN to Harry and Delores (Westby) Kreger. As a teenager he moved to Winona, MN and attended Cotter High School. He finished high school in Hastings, MN, where he met his wife Ann Olson. Kevin attended Winona State College and graduated in 1969. That same year he married Ann at St. Boniface Church in Hastings where began his teaching career as a fifth grade teacher and served as vice principal. In 1975 he moved to New Prague to teach English and Social Studies at the Junior High. Kevin taught every grade from 7-12, spending most of those years in the English department. He always said the three most important words in education are: Prepare! Prepare! Prepare!
In 2005, Kevin retired from New Prague High School after teaching thousands, and inspiring in many a passion for learning and literature. He read for enjoyment every day of his life, and even in retirement, never stopped teaching. His grandchildren benefited from his love of books and spent time with him each summer in Grandpa’s Book Club, or Wednesday homework help. After perfecting his cookie recipe, he always had homemade cookies in the cookie jar.
Kevin was a respected teacher, beloved husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by wife Ann, children Patrick (Tina), Rachel (Brooks) Harmon and Katherine, Grandchildren Amir Chraibi, Orion and Liberty Kreger, Emilyand Ben Harmon, brother Harry Jr., sisters Maureen Spawr and Mary. He was preceded in death by his parents Harry Kreger and Delores (Westby) Kreger; stepmother Josephine (Freking) Kreger; brother Donald.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, November 23, 2015, at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating. Visitation will occur at Bruzek Funeral Home on Sunday, November 22nd from 4 – 8 PM and Monday morning from 7:30 – 9:30 AM. Burial will take place at the church cemetery, followed by lunch at the Park Ballroom.
In lieu of flowers, consider bringing a favorite book to be donated to local schools and organizations in his memory. Memorials preferred to St. Wenceslaus School or the Retired Teacher’s Scholarship Fund in New Prague.
