Kenneth “Ken” Krejce, age 70, of Savage, MN, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 2, 2024.
A prayer service will be held on Saturday, February 10, at 12:30 pm, with a visitation starting at 11 am, at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 4565 Pleasant Street SE, Prior Lake. Father Tom Walker will preside. A lunch will follow celebrating Ken’s life. Memorials are preferred and will be distributed in his memory by the family.
Kenneth James was born on August 20, 1953, in Farmington, MN. He was the oldest of five children born to Anthony and Geraldine (Gerardy) Krejce. Ken always said, “He was born a MAN!” Being the oldest, his younger siblings and cousins looked up to him. Growing up, Ken was always doing something with his siblings and cousins, and often found himself in a bit of mischief along the way.
Ken attended Catholic grade school, graduating from Lakeville High School, in 1971. He furthered his education at a trade school, where Ken learned to work with his hands. For most of Ken’s career, he worked as a carpenter, eventually owning his own construction company for a while. After retiring from construction, Ken remained dedicated and committed to working hard, and never missing a day of work. He took on a position fulfilling multiple roles at the local auto auction.
On June 16, 1973, Ken married Lorelei Swanson. They were blessed with two children, Ryan and Jessica. The Krejce’s enjoyed camping and exploring the Midwest. Ryan and Jessica fondly remember the road trips to Wisconsin Dells, Mount Rushmore, Paul Bunyan Land, and the North Shore. In 1978, Ken took his love of building and working with his hands and built a beautiful home for his family in Savage, which he enjoyed until his passing. Eventually, Ken and Lorelei parted ways. In the years to follow, he became a grandpa to three amazing grandsons, Brayden, Gavin, and Ian.
Ken lived a simple life. He enjoyed the open road on his motorcycle, socializing with his long-time neighbors, watching and discussing NASCAR racing, and being the neighborhood dog’s best friend. Ken was a history buff and knowledgeable about music, and he was an intelligent man. Ken was most content being surrounded by his friends, and he had such a welcoming smile and personality. Ken never turned away anyone in need. His selfless attitude was benefited by many people through the years.
Ken is survived by son, Ryan (Shellie) Krejce; daughter, Jessica (Gregory) Fahr; grandchildren, Brayden Krejce, Gavin Fahr, Ian Fahr; siblings, Jo Ann Puri, Toni (Mike) Zitek; brother-in-law, Jim (Lynn) Hobson; other loving relatives and friends.
Greeting Ken home in Heaven are his parents, Anthony and Geraldine; sister, Pamela Hobson, and brother, Daniel Krejce.
