Alphuns "Al" J. Kurkowski was born February 8, 1926, at Watauga, South Dakota, to Bernard and Leocardia (Zalinski) Kurkowski. He was baptized as an infant in Watauga. He moved with his family to Rush City, South Dakota, at the age of 10. Al attended school and was confirmed in Rush City. He joined the U.S. Army on May 12, 1944. He was a machine gunner in Company 1-70th Division 274 Infantry with battles in Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. He acquired the nickname "Lucky" while in the service. He was honorably discharged on June 15, 1946. Al married Jane Hanson in Rush City on September 9, 1947. Together they raised three children. In the early years of their marriage, they ran a hog and dairy farm. Due to Al's allergies they moved from the farm to Boyd, Minnesota, and owned and operated "Al's Tavern" and "Al's Garage" for eight years. In 1960 Al and Lance Orr formed the business of Central Light and Fixture Co. He remained in that profession until his death. He considered his customers as good friends and enjoyed their relationships very much. Al enjoyed deer, pheasant and duck hunting as well as fishing, camping, rodeos and other outdoor activities. He was a member of the Boyd American Legion, VFW and Disabled American Vets. In his earlier years he was a member of the Boyd City Council and Boyd Fire Department. He also was a Scout Leader. He was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Dawson, Minnesota. He passed away suddenly Sunday, January 10, 2010, at the Granite Falls Hospital at the age of 83 years and 11 months. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jane, and children: Sharon (Gene) Kockelman of Clarkfield, Minnesota, Marilyn (Ron) Sammons of Atwater, Minnesota, and Greg Kurkowski (friend Constance) of Wyoming, Minnesota. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Jeff (Salena) Kockelman, Jade (Marlana) Wadsworth, Tristen (Angie) Wadsworth, Jesse (Carrie) Wadsworth and Misty Pursley; four step grandchildren: Aaron, Nikki and Robert Sammons, Jennifer Smith; and seven great grandchildren: Ashley, Madison, Ben, Blake, Matthew, Dallas and Lili; brothers Vince and Joseph Kurkowski; sister Ann Peak; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers Ben, Clarence and Francis; sisters Marge and Gert; and one infant brother. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them. Blessed be his memory. In Loving Memory of Alphuns J. Kurkowski Visitation Thursday, January 14, 2010 9:00-10:00 a.m. St. James Catholic Church, Dawson, Minnesota Mass of the Resurrection Thursday, January 14, 2010 ~ 10:00 a.m. St. James Catholic Church, Dawson, Minnesota Clergy Officiating, Fr. Jim Dvorak Organist, Joan Zaiser Special Music, Carol A. Bakker "How Great Thou Art!" "On Eagles Wings" Casketbearers Don Hutt ~ Lynell Leasman Vern Lien ~ Gary Nagel Larry Nilson ~ Ordell Zietlow Military Rites Boyd American Legion, Oien-Horgen Post # 198 Final Resting Place Ft. Snelling National Cemetery Minneapolis, Minnesota Friday, January 15, 2010 ~ 11:30 a.m Arrangements by Lynner Funeral Home Since 1891 Clarkfield Minnesota