By Watertown Current - March 17, 2026 in 
Kevin Kranz, 78 of Kranzburg
Kevin Eugene Kranz was born December 04, 1947, in Watertown, SD, to Eugene “Gene” and Helen Agnes (Dupont) Kranz. He grew up in rural Watertown and remained deeply connected to the community throughout his life.
Kevin graduated from Waverly High School and went on to attend Dakota State College, formerly known as General Beadle College, where he earned a four-year degree.
On August 30, 1969, he was united in marriage to Jenifer Matteson at Immaculate Conception Church in Watertown. Together, they raised two children, building a life centered on family, service, and community.
Kevin worked as a firefighter with the Watertown Fire Department, rising to the rank of Captain before retiring in 1999 after 24 years of service. In addition to firefighting, he also coached physical education, basketball, baseball, and other activities, positively impacting many young lives.
Kevin proudly served in the National Guard from 1970 to 1976. He was also a member of the Watertown American Legion. He was also on the town board for Kranzburg and served as the town Mayor.
Later in life, Kevin worked at Codington County Soil Conservation, first as a technician and later as a manager. His work included planning and planting trees for farmers, helping to preserve and protect the local environment. In recognition of these efforts, Kevin was honored as South Dakota Soil Conservationist of the Year in 1999.
Kevin had a deep love for the outdoors and sports. He excelled in athletics throughout high school, college, and into adulthood. An avid sportsman, he spent many years enjoying countless fishing trips to the river and countless hunting trips. He was a longtime member of Pheasants Forever and maintained food plots on his land to support wildlife.
He also served for many years as a member of the Search, Dive, and Rescue team, continuing his lifelong commitment to helping others.
Kevin truly lived life to the fullest. He never missed an athletic event for any of his grandchildren and cherished the many summer weekends spent camping and fishing with his family. His family meant everything to him.
A person strong in faith, he was a member of the Catholic community.
Blessed to have shared his life were his wife of 56 years, Jenny Kranz; children, Chad Kranz of Watertown, South Dakota, and Jeff (Vicky) Kranz of Watertown, SD; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and siblings, Philip Kranz of Sioux Falls, SD, Virginia Klatt of Aberdeen, SD, Greg (Brenda) Kranz of Apple Valley, MN, Noel Kranz of Sioux Falls, SD, and Ray (Julie) Kranz of Watertown, SD.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Lloyd Kranz and Edwin Kranz; and sister, Maureen Kranz.
