Harvey L. Krage

** Please see service information. All Services are being held Sunday April 7**


On March 27th, 2019 Harvey L. Krage peacefully passed from this world with his family by his side. Harvey was born and raised in Winona, and lived his entire life in the Winona and Minnesota City area with his wife of 55 years, Mary (Keller). Together, on their hobby farm within the bluffs of beautiful Corey Valley, they raised their 6 children.

Harvey loved the outdoors, but even more, loved to share his passions with family and friends by his side. These passions and interests over the years included his flower and vegetable gardens, fruit trees, raising animals, bee-keeping, cooking/entertaining for others, cheering for his Green Bay Packers, antique cars, hunting/fishing, line dancing, playing cards, and most proudly- land stewardship. To Harvey, it wasn't the work or project at hand, but the fact we were together "figuring it out", getting it done, and then enjoying time together, with a meal followed by cards or bean bags.

In their earlier years, Harvey and Mary enjoyed raising and showing Great Danes, a hobby passed from her parents. Their love of travel took them on several cruises and trips around the US. Together they traveled to Montana many times to visit Mary's sister and her family; to immerse themselves in Anaconda life each time. They loved collecting art and RS Prussia, dancing, and cooking side by side. Over the years they shared a special bond with the neighboring farm families (Scharmers, Coreys, and Krages); learning farm practices while at the same time being welcomed into the valley as family. For this gesture Harvey and Mary have forever been grateful.

The love of the land led Harvey to learning more about land conservancy and its importance. Through the Minnesota Land Conservation agency and the "Reinvest in Minnesota" initiative, Harvey and Mary submitted acreage of the farm to remain undeveloped for many years to come. With the help of family and friends this included tree plantings, prairie restorations, and eradication of invasive bluff species. As well, Harvey's interest in the spring water supply for the farm led to water testing and recording for many years, initiated by the Minnesota DNR. This interest ultimately led to his participation in the Rural Climate Change Dialogue at Winona State University in 2016, followed by a published NPR radio interview and article regarding his environmental views and opinions related to climate change.

Harvey's work life included 42 years with Brad Ragan Tire of Winona, where he proudly earned his Boiler's License. Harvey also earned his CDL and ended his career at Brad Ragan as a delivery driver- his favorite position because he could get out and see the country side while working. Later, he would drive again part-time for HyVee in Winona, making home deliveries of flowers and medications to those in need.


Harvey, born on December 28, 1943, is survived by his wife Mary(Keller), their children Kim (Jeff) Wilson, Daniel (Valerie), Martin (Kristin), Trish (Kim) Rine, Michael (Jennifer) Spindler-Krage, and Charlotte (Gareth) Orsmond, as well as 19 beloved grand children and 3 great-grand children, his sister Helen (Frank) Lightfoot, in-laws Michael Keller and Anita (Tim) Hamm, and numerous close nieces/nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by parents Elmer and Elizabeth Krage, and brother Harry Krage.

All friends, family, and neighbors are welcome Sunday, April 7th at Hoff Celebration of Life in Winona from 1p-4p with a ceremony of sharing beginning at 3p, and lunch to follow. All are encouraged to share favorite stories and memories for others to hear, laugh and hold dear...to truly celebrate.

Harvey's final gesture was to donate his body to Mayo Clinic's Anatomical Bequest Program in Rochester, MN for the purposes of medical education, research, and surgical training, and the development and testing of new surgical devices and techniques.