Alex Kurak

Alex Kurak, PhD

Age 97, of St. Paul, Minnesota passed away peacefully on August 31, 2022. He leaves behind his children and stepchildren, Alexis McCarthy, Steven Kurak, Elizabeth Holman, Maureen Messer (Denny Peterson), Sharon Messer; and many grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vernelle Kurak; his daughter, Margaret (Meg) Vang; great-grandson Angelo Vang; his parents; and four brothers.

Alex was born in 1925 and raised in Chisholm, Minnesota. During World War II, he served in the US Army 96th Infantry Division “Deadeyes” in the Pacific. At age 19 he was injured in combat on Okinawa and subsequently received an honorable discharge and a Purple Heart.

Alex attended the University of Minnesota in Duluth and the Twin Cities, where he earned a PhD. He taught English, Philosophy and Logic in the University of Minnesota General College in Minneapolis for many years, and retired a full professor.

With his wife, Vernelle, he traveled widely including extended world travels while on sabbatical. They were avid gardeners, birdwatchers and nature lovers. They lived in Southeast Minneapolis and in Frederic Wisconsin before moving to The Wellington Assisted Living in St. Paul.

A memorial gathering will be held on September 20, 2022, 11 AM to 1 PM, at the Danish American Center, 3030 West River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55406.  Memorials are preferred, to The Nature Conservancy or to Minnesota Public Radio.