Brian K. Koranda, 68

Blue Earth – Brian Kenneth Koranda, age 68, of Blue Earth, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 25 at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Fr. Jeff Dobbs officiated. Visitation was on Friday and one hour before the service at the church. Burial took place at Calvary Cemetery in Blue Earth. Online condolences can be left and the service can be viewed at www.pattonfh.com

Brian was born in Baudette, on June 10, 1955 to Kenneth & Margaret (Alich) Koranda. He grew up in Moorhead. Brian practiced psychology in southern Minnesota for almost all of his adult life, until his retirement in 2021. Quiet and kind-hearted, Brian would listen to any story a friend or family member had to offer. If they were willing to wait, they would get the chance to hear one in return. Brian loved the outdoors, and spent many summer hours hiking and kayaking and winter days snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. His binders of genealogical research show his passion for history and the connections of the past. With his wife, a child, or a grandchild, you could often find him working on a puzzle, or challenging someone to a match of Scrabble, cribbage, or peanuts. There is not a child who entered Brian’s home during the holiday season who won’t remember him for the event of the year: baking and decorating gingerbread cookies.

Brian is survived by his wife, Louise (Quackenbush) Koranda; children, Ellen (Eric) Vanden Eykel, Michael (Crystal) Koranda, Kathryn Koranda, and Allison Koranda; sister, Andrea Koranda; nephew, David (Molly) St. Denis; grandchildren, Jane, Sidney, Gage, and Seth; well as many other friends and extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Brian’s memory may be made to the Blue Earth Area Mentors (BEAM) or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).