Daniel E. Kratochvil

Daniel E. Kratochvil, age 95, of Grand Forks, died Saturday, May 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Visitation will be held 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Amundson Funeral Home Chapel in Grand Forks, North Dakota, followed by a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Dan was born April 13, 1930, in Lankin, North Dakota, to James and Caroline (Bina) Kratochvil. He spent his childhood on the family farm attending Lankin schools. Following his graduation in 1948, Dan furthered his education at the University of North Dakota, where he earned his bachelor's degree in accounting and completed the ROTC program. Dan honorably served in the United States Air Force.

On October 19, 1950, Dan was united in marriage to Elaine Kaste at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Mahnomen, Minnesota. As a supportive wife Elaine moved with Dan to various locations during his Air Force career; eventually moving back to Grand Forks where they raised their family and pursued his career.

Dan dedicated 35 years of his professional life to Brady Martz & Associates (MBA). He began his career as a certified public accountant and was instrumental as a managing partner in the merging of the two companies, Brady with Martz, to form MBA. Where he eventually retired in 1990. Dan also held many distinguished leadership positions regionally, nationally, and internationally. He had the honor of being appointed by the Governor of ND as President of the State Board of Accountancy for a five-year term in 1983.

Dan was a charter member of the Optimists Club serving as President and a two-year term as District Lieutenant Governor. He was also a devoted charter member of Holy Family Church. In addition, he enjoyed annual camping trips with his family. He was also a loyal supporter of UND athletics, a shrewd poker player, an avid golfer, bowler, fisherman, and cherished traveling with his wife. Together, Dan and Elaine designed and built their family compound on lake Kabekona near Walker, MN where they hosted countless gatherings with family and friends. Dan’s love for his family will be deeply missed.

Daniel is survived by his wife of over 74 years, Elaine Kratochvil; sons Keith (KrisAnn) Kratochvil and David (Amy) Kratochvil; daughters Karla (Myron) Scott, Diane (Daniel) Smith, Dawn Holweger, and Kristi (Joel) Ross; 21 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; 6 bonus great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Baird; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Caroline; daughter, Karen Ward; brother, Harold (Carol) Kratochvil; and many beloved family members.