Holland, MI - Bradley Robert Kraywinkel, well-known as Brad to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve December 24th, 2025 at home, after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was born on February 28, 1964 in Winnebago Village, MN to Robert and Charlotte Kraywinkel. After graduating from Minnesota Lake High School, Brad studied and earned a Bachelor of Art degree from Gustavus Adolphus College, MN. He spent some time in the UK and later worked as an Editor at the Minnesota Newspaper. Last 25 years of his career, he was a long-term Federal employee at SSA in both Minnesota and Michigan offices.
He enjoyed hunting and target shooting; he found solace through hiking, walking, long drives in the countryside, and attending antique shows and Ducks Unlimited banquets.
Brad is survived by his devoted wife, Ann Lan; his parents, Bob and Char; his brother, Mark Kraywinkel; several aunts and uncles, cousins and countless nieces and nephews in Minnesota and Michigan. Although he lived in Michigan for over 20 years, Brad remained a loyal Vikings fan. The Vikings and the Lions football games had always sparked intense and fun rivalries between Brad and his Michigan friends.
Bradley's life was a testament to the power of faith. He was a recovered addict of 39 years and served as a mentor to others who coped with addiction. Brad was an active member of The BLVD Church and was also actively involved in the Men's Bible Study group at Embody Church in Holland, MI. His devotion to God was carried out through his life of service and building relationships, connecting people: anonymously paying meals for elderly or disabled people at resturants: handing out gas cards to long-distance commuters, helping neighbors with yard work. He never missed an opportunity to explain, share, or pass along his love of faith and God, his struggles through addiction and the final battle with cancer. Throughout his journey, he strongly believed in God to the last message, "My Faith remains strong. I have experienced miracles in my life." His "social butterfly" personality shone bright in his community. He touched many lives with his kindness, built a life full of meaningful friendships and memories that will endure with people from all walks of life. Those who knew Brad will forever cherish his weekly messages of gratitude, encouragement, his love of God and his contagious laughter.
Memorial contributions may be given to Celebrate Recovery, through Central Wesleyan Church. https://pushpay.com/g/wecentralholland. Please specify "Celebrate Recovery".
Celebration of Life will be February 7th, 11:00-2:30 (Saturday)at Hilltop United Methodist Church, 108 Manitou Drive, Mankato, MN
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bradley, please visit our floral store.
Holland, MI - Bradley Robert Kraywinkel, well-known as Brad to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve December 24th, 2025 at home, after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was born on February 28, 1964 in Winnebago Village, MN to Robert and Charlotte Kraywinkel. After graduating from Minnesota Lake High School, Bra
Published on January 10, 2026
Saturday, February 7, 2026
11:00 am - 2:30 pm
In Memory of Bradley Robert Kraywinkel