Jerry L. Kral

1943 - 2018

Jerry L. Kral, cherished husband, beloved father, proudest grandfather, and respected educator, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018. Jerry was born in Hastings, Nebraska, on Dec. 13, 1943. He grew up in Denver and attended St. Vincent De Paul School, Regis High School and UNC. In 1967, he began a career in Cherry Creek School District that spanned more than three decades. He began his teaching career at Cherry Hills Elementary as a sixth grade teacher with a passion for math. His first opportunity as a principal came at Walnut Hills Elementary. One of his favorite professional experiences was working with the Cottonwood community to plan and eventually open Cottonwood Creek Elementary in 1976. Jerry returned to Cherry Hills Village Elementary School as principal in 1984 and retired from the district in 1999. In "retirement," Jerry was a substitute teacher, substitute principal, GT math teacher, and mentor for future teachers in the UNC at Lowry program. Always active in the community, Jerry participated in Leadership Denver. He was a president for Wellshire Cooperative Preschool and Skyline Acres Swim and Tennis Club. He loved to agitate political leaders to prioritize education and opportunities for children and families. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Creighton and Dorothy Kral; his brother, Tom Kral; and sister-in-law, Amy (Steve). He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Midge; his daughter Maggie Kral Deeks (Nate) of Portland, Oregon; his son Bill Kral of Denver; his sister Debi Knuth (Mike) of Great Falls, Montana; his brothers Steve Kral and John Kral of Denver. He was the proud "Pop-Pop" to granddaughter Delaney Beatrice Deeks. Jerry touched many people during his life and loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at 3-6 p.m. Oct. 13, 2018, at the Washington Park Dos Chappell Bathhouse, 600 S. Marion Parkway. This will be a time to share "Jerry" stories, of which there are many. Jerry would want us to remember two of his favorite wisdoms: #1. Policy is a substitute for thinking. #2. Never begin a sentence with "me" or end a sentence with "at." Last, but not least: Be kind.