Edward M. Kalal

Edward (Ed) Milton Kalal, age 82 of Crystal, MN, strummed his last song and took his last ride on December 19th, 2023.

Ed was born on Sept 18th, 1941, in New Prague, MN to parents Frank and Mary Jane (Steck). After graduating high school in Prior Lake, Ed earned a bachelor’s and master’s from the University of Minnesota in Education. He taught 5th grade in the Robbinsdale School District for 34 years, interrupted only by military service in Vietnam. Ed served as an Executive Secretary in the Army’s Casualty and Medical Evacuation Division, for which he received commendations.

Throughout his life, Ed loved people and was a selfless friend. He also loved riding his Harley and making paintings and crafts. Ed taught himself guitar, which he would bring anytime he had an audience. At Christmas, the children always looked forward to seeing Ed as Santa Claus and singing Christmas songs.

As Ed’s health deteriorated, he was able to stay at home thanks to loving care given by Judie, Trinka, Antoine, Aubrianna, Brooks, Hezekiah, Sue and others. It may have been his last ride, but it was never about the destination; it was always the journey.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Joann. He is survived by partner Judie Swenson; children Betsy Vinopal (Craig) and Nathan Kalal (Amy); brother Loren; grandchildren Nick, Jack, Samantha, Kelsey and Bradley; extended family Shanna Sundeen (Aaron), Kaiya and Kade, Skip Swenson (Mary), nieces, nephews and friends.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Please meet at assembly area #6 at 10:45. Click on the map information below to view additional information

At the request of the family, Please, no flowers or tree's. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to MN chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America preferred.