Joseph “Joe” Kralicek, Jr., 86, Dickinson, died Wednesday, January 23, 2019 at St. Benedict’s Health Center, Dickinson, surrounded by family. Mass of Christian Burial will 10 a.m., Monday, January 28, 2019 at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Dickinson with Fr. William Ruelle as celebrant. Entombment will take place at the Dickinson Mausoleum. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Ladbury Funeral Service with a rosary and vigil at 6 p.m. with Deacon Leonard Krebs presiding.
Joseph “Joe” Kralicek, Jr. was born July 22, 1932 to Joseph and Mary (Dvorak) Kralicek, in Dickinson. He grew up on the family farm north of Dickinson and attended country school and Model High in Dickinson.
Joe married Josephine “Josie” Jablonsky, September 18, 1951 in New Hradec. They purchased the Kralicek family farm and raised Hereford cattle for seven years before daughter, Darla arrived and then four years later son, Kelly. In 1993 Joe and Josie retired from the farm and moved into Dickinson.
Joe loved music. He played the trumpet and sang as a member of the Jolly Czechs, Sodbuster Band, The Czech Singers and Queen of Peace choir. They played for many events including Joe’s favorite polka masses.
Joe enjoyed sports, attending as many activities he could in which his kids and grandkids participated. He also supported the Green Bay Packers of which family members have continued.
Joe volunteered for many things over the decades, but was especially proud of the years he spent on various Trinity committees. He was a member of the Elks, KC, Catholic Workman and church member of St. Patrick’s until Queen of Peace was founded.
Joe’s five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren (+1 due in February) were his most beloved. Patience was not Joe’s best virtue except when it came to the “grands”. He cherished each precious minute with them whether it was carving pumpkins, playing catch or even just holding their hands. They all love their “Papa Joe”.
Joe is survived by his wife of 67 years, Josie; daughter, Darla (Larry) Kuntz, Dickinson; son, Kelly (Connie) Kralicek, Dickinson; grandchildren, Dana (Brock) Oukrop, Bismarck, Dallas (Kelli Krieg) Kuntz, Dickinson, Deedra (Mike) Weidner, Dickinson, Brock Kralicek, Dickinson and Joshua (Brit) Kralicek, Dickinson; seven great-grandkids; sister, Lillian Moore, Ore.; brothers-in-law, Laudie Kostelecky and Wilfred Kovash, both of Dickinson; and sisters-in-law, Bertha Kralicek and Martha Kostelecky, both of Dickinson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary; brothers, Tony, Albert and George; sisters, Edith V. Kostelecky, Hattie (Anton) Kostelecky, Martha (Melvin) Watkins, Emily (Vince) Ficek, Rose Kralicek, Anne (Val) Schmidt, Dorothy (Edmond) Kostelecky; and brother-in-law, Jerry Moore.
