James "Wimpy" Kranz

James "Wimpy" Kranz, age 83, a lifetime resident and longtime business owner in Hastings, died peacefully on Monday, December 8, 2014 at his home. James Anthony, the son of Charles and Appalonia (Gergen) Kranz, was born on June 30, 1931 in Hastings. After graduating from Hastings High School in 1949, he continued his education at St. Johns for a short time. Wimpy enlisted in the Minnesota National Guard at age fifteen and eventually received an honorable discharge as First Lieutenant. He was united in marriage to Rosemary McShane on August 7, 1954 inHopkinsville, KY. Wimpy first started working as a print operator at the Hastings Gazette before starting Kranz Printing/Graphic Design in Hastings, which is still operated by his family. He loved the opportunity to run his business in the Hastings community and cherished the friendships he gained. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Richard, Arthur, Charles, Jerry and Ray. Wimpy is survived by his wife, Rosemary of Hastings; his children, Thomas (Jeanne) Kranz of Hastings, Peter (Jackie) Kranz of Hastings, Larry (Jerry) Kranz of Scottsdale, AZ, Jerry (Denise) Kranz of Eagan, Mary Jo (Dave) Myers of Cannon Falls, Paul (Jason) Kranz of Hastings, and Michael Kranz of Robbinsdale; his twelve grandchildren and four great grandchildren; his siblings, Delores Wilke, Margie Kane, Father Stephen Kranz O.S.B. and John (Marlys) Kranz; his sister-in-law, Barbara "Bobbie" Kranz, and by many other relatives and friends. The Funeral Mass, officiated by Father Cole Kracke and Father Stephen Kranz O.S.B. will be held on Friday, December 12, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 West Fifteenth St, Hastings. Interment with Military Honors provided by the Hastings VFW Lyle Russell Post #1210 will be held at the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held 4 -8 PM Thursday at Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services, 201 East Seventh St, Hastings and one hour prior to service at church. Memorials are preferred to the Assumption Abbey in ND and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish. The family wishes to thank the dialysis nurses and drivers for the loving care and concern they provided.