LeRoy Peter Kulla

LeRoy P. Kulla, age 89, of Blaine, MN, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025. He was born on August 14, 1935, on the family farm (reportedly behind the grainery) in Elmdale, MN, to John and Helen (Schichta) Kulla. LeRoy left the farm as a young man to work aboard an iron ore boat on the Great Lakes, where he discovered a love for cooking while assisting the ship's chef. In 1955, he was called to active duty and proudly served in the U.S. Navy until 1957. After his service, he returned to Minnesota and worked at the Peavey Grain Elevator in Minneapolis. He later held positions at John Morrell Meats and North American Van Lines Moving & Storage, where he became known for salvaging unique treasures-many of which he donated or sold at his legendary rummage sales. LeRoy was proud of his Polish heritage; he spoke the language and cooked traditional foods for his family. LeRoy met the love of his life, Leona Skwira, at a dance in Elmdale. They were married on June 29, 1959, in Opole and made their home in Blaine, where they raised three daughters. LeRoy willingly helped maintain the household while Leona worked evenings, taking care of the grocery shopping, cooking meals, and looking after their daughters, an uncommon role for men of his generation. Affectionately known as "Chicken Pete," LeRoy had a passion for collecting ceramic chickens. He was also an avid gardener, proudly canning the fruits of his labor each fall. He enjoyed polka music, pulling tabs, and a cold beer shared with friends and family. Many cherished memories were made during family vacations and holiday gatherings. The grandchildren especially looked forward to playing bingo and shaking dice with Grandpa at his bar in the basement, moments filled with laughter and joy. Even as he faced the challenges of dementia, LeRoy never lost his quick wit, playful spirit, or his talent for making the unique noises that brought smiles to everyone around him. LeRoy was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus for over 50 years, volunteering at their Sunday bingo and the Concertina Bowl. He was also a member of the Bowlus American Legion and served faithfully as an usher at the Church of St. Paul for many years. LeRoy is survived by his wife Leona, daughters Renee (Steve) Gossen, Joan Kindt, Wendy (Mike) Dochterman, grandchildren Kelsey (Mike) Whelen, Adam (Amanda) Kindt, Lexy (Brandon) Kindt, Taylor (Elizabeth) Gossen, Carter Dochterman, Callie Dochterman, Five great-grandchildren Olivia and William Kindt, Maisy and Jonah Whelen, Adalyn Gossen, and brothers Ron and Bill. He is preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Dan Kindt, and his siblings Dorothy, Richard, Alfred, Virgil, Floyd, Genevive, Bernadine, and Howard. The family finds comfort in knowing that LeRoy's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught them, the love he shared, and the memories they will cherish forever. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Epiphany Memory Care, where LeRoy received loving care during the final years of his life.

Tributes

LeRoy Peter Kulla

August 14, 1935 - June 24, 2025

Tributes

LeRoy Peter Kulla

August 14, 1935 - June 24, 2025

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