Emil G. Kucera

Emil Kucera passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 27, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with Multiple Myeloma. He was 87 years old. Emil is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Angeline ("Angie"); his cherished daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Mike Schulz and Christine and Mark Kalla; his beloved grandchildren, Sydney and Nolan Potts and Olivia Kalla; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim and Pat Kucera, Joseph Kucera, Jr., Fred and Judy Kucera, and Eugene Kucera. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Tillie Kucera.

Emil was born outside of Cadott, Wisconsin, on May 31, 1938, where he lived and worked on his family's turkey/dairy farm growing up. There he learned the value of hard work and resilience, as well as the economics of running a small business. As a young man, Emil was a fast-pitch softball pitcher with a nearly unhittable pitch, and the sport remained a lifelong passion he enthusiastically followed and discussed. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserve from 1960 to 1966.

Emil was formally educated at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and the University of Minnesota, focusing on business and accounting. He worked for 21 years at American Hoist & Derrick in various financial positions, ultimately becoming President of Bros, its road construction equipment division. With lifelong business partners and friends, he later founded MinnPar, a leading construction and industrial equipment parts supplier, where he served as President and Chairman of the Board until he sold the company and retired. In addition to being a brilliant and shrewd businessman, Emil gave back to the community by serving on multiple boards, including the HealthPartners–Regions Hospital Board and the Regions Hospital Foundation Board (honorary lifetime member). He was appointed by Governor Perpich to the Prisons Industry Board, by Governor Dayton to the Watershed District Board, and by Governor Anderson to the Regions Hospital Board.

Above all, Emil's greatest joy and proudest achievement was his family, along with the enduring friendships he cultivated throughout his life. Emil and Angie loved their time living on Lake Josephine and becoming "residents" of Arizona in their retirement. Emil treasured his time with his family—boating on various Minnesota lakes, cruising around Europe, vacationing in Hawaii (beach walks, whale watching, and Mama's Fish House were favorites), providing advice to his grandchildren, and golfing with anyone willing to take him on.

Emil was a formidable competitor in everything he did and immensely enjoyed a good debate. He fashioned himself a "provocateur" and had a wickedly sharp and witty sense of humor. He was also very independent (some may say stubborn) and a creature of habit. He especially loved: Fox News, financial journals and newspapers, jumbo blueberries (his last meal), cereal for lunch, the Minnesota Twins, adult beverages at sundown, and the view from their Savage home. Emil will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by the many people whose lives he touched.

Emil's immediate family members will celebrate his life in a private ceremony. If interested, the family invites you to honor Emil’s memory and the exceptional health care he received by donating to the Mayo Clinic or a charity of your choice. Thank you to Emil’s family members, friends, and healthcare providers for your support.