John Joseph Krolak, 82, of Stephen, Minnesota unexpectedly passed away at his home on July 29, 2017. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his four children, Terrance, Prior Lake, MN, Nicholas (Tracy), Shakopee, MN, Julie, Pacific Grove, CA and James, Plymouth, MN, and his many grandchildren.

John was born and grew up in Stephen. He is the son of Frank and Lucille Krolak. After receiving a bachelor's degree at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, John served in the army from 1958 to 1960. After serving, he returned to Stephen to take over the family business, Krolak Hartz Supermarket, which was started by his father in 1944. John devoted his life to the store, opening the store at 6:30 and finishing twelve hours later, working six and half days a week. He retired in 1999. At 66 years, Krolak Hartz Supermarket was the longest family owned business in the Hartz Supermarket chain. Upon his retirement, the supermarket chain offered him a seat on the board of directors. John was also given a key to the city of Stephen, which was only the second time a resident had been offered one.

John was very active in his local community. He was a volunteer firefighter, and he held several positions on the Stephen City Council.

He was an avid golfer and participated in the Men's Golf League. He won the all-league championship in 2001 and 2006. But probably his greatest accomplishment in golf was getting a hole in one. He was also a passionate Minnesota sports fan. His favorite teams were the Vikings, Twins, and Gophers.

More than anything, John will be remembered for his generosity, his devotion to his family, his service to his community, his friendliness toward others, and his value of hard work.

Funeral services will be held at St. Stephen's Catholic Church at 10:00 am on Thursday, August 3, 2017.  Visitation will be at the church on Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 with prayers at 7:00. Fr. Luis Buitron, presiding; St. Stephen's Choir and Marilyn Hanson, organist. Casket bearers will be Luther Johnson, Eugene Kuznia, Ted Rogus, Roger Kazmierczak, David Kuznia and Ralph Swendseid. Military honors accorded the the Stephen American Legion.