North Mankato, MN - Kevin John Kolander, age 67 of North Mankato, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on May 20th, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply, a house full of projects, and multiple "to-do" lists.

Born to Ahrles and Berniece Kolander, Kevin was raised with his brothers on a farm near Lakefield, MN. Kevin met his wife, Terry, at vocational school, and they were married for 46 years.

Kevin began his career as a farmer and later worked as an architectural draftsman, moving to North Mankato, where he helped design and establish the neighborhood where he and Terry raised their family. In later years, he worked as a maintenance supervisor. He was hardworking, practical, and the kind of person who believed nearly anything could be fixed with enough time, creativity, and random parts.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Terry; his children, Catie (Taylor) and Andrew (Kelly); three grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy; his brothers, Alan (Cork) and Bruce (Dawn); and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother James.

Kevin loved hunting, tinkering, building, fixing things, collecting things, and making regular trips to Menards, Home Depot, Cub, Mankato Honda, Schmidt's Meat Market, and C&S Supply. In what may have been his longest-running project, he spent the last several years "cleaning out" the garage and basement, though evidence of progress remains questionable.

He loved nature and noticed everything. Car rides with Kevin usually included excited announcements of "Eagle!" "Deer!" "Turkey!" or occasionally even "Broken combine!" delivered with equal enthusiasm. He loved sharing pictures of baby bunnies, cecropia moths, toads, and other wildlife.

Kevin made friends everywhere he went and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. More than anything, Kevin cared. He was there for family, neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. He was always willing to help, and you knew you mattered when he showed up in his truck full of tools.

We like to imagine Kevin now driving off into the sunset in a shiny new red pickup, probably pointing out wildlife along the way and stopping to help someone before he gets to where he's going.

He will be deeply missed, constantly quoted, and impossible to replace.

Visitation will be held at Northview Mortuary in North Mankato on Sunday, May 24th, from 3-5 pm.