Emery Krech

Emery Adolph Krech was born Sept. 8, 1923, at Inver Grove Heights, MN to parents Edward Minna (Wachter) Krech. Emery graduated from South St. Paul High School in 1940. He enlisted in the Navy Air Corp and served from 1942-1945. He enrolled at Hamline University and later transferred to the U of M where he graduated in 1950 with a B.S. degree in agriculture education. He later received his Master's Degree from the U of M. He started his career as an agriculture teacher in Okabena, MN, in 1950, where he met his wife Bonnie. They married in 1952 and moved to St. James. He taught agriculture and adult education in St. James from 1957 to 1975. Emery initiated the Viking Vocational School in Hanska and served as director from 1975 until his retirement in 1984. After his retirement he started growing trees which soon evolved into Krech Evergreen and Nursery which he worked at, managed and enjoyed for 20+ years. His hobbies over his lifetime included farming, gardening, bridge, golf and spending time with his family and friends. Emery is survived by his wife Bonnie of St. James, daughter Mary Jo (Martin) Sandvik of Eagan, sons Paul (Carolyn) Krech of Lakeville, Jack (Elaine) Krech of St. James, grandchildren Ben Sandvik, Dane Sandvik, Andrew Krech, Anna Krech, Sam Krech, Sarah Krech, brother Ernie (Delores) Krech and sister Hazel (Andy) Schultze both of Inver Grove Heights. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters and 2 brothers.