Bradley R. Kraywinkel

Bradley Robert Kraywinkel, well-known as Brad to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve December 24th, 2025 at home, after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was born on February 28, 1964 in Winnebago Village, MN to Robert and Charlotte Kraywinkel. After graduating from Minnesota Lake High School, Brad studied and earned a Bachelor of Art degree from Gustavus Adolphus College, MN. He spent some time in the UK and later worked as an Editor at a Minnesota Newspaper. Last 25 years of his career, he was a long-term Federal employee at SSA in both Minnesota and Michigan offices. He enjoyed hunting and target shooting; he found solace through hiking, walking, long drives in the countryside, and attending antique shows and Ducks Unlimited banquets. Brad is survived by his devoted wife, Anh Lan; his parents, Bob and Char; his brother, Mark Kraywinkel; several aunts and uncles, cousins and countless nieces and nephews in Minnesota and Michigan. Although he lived in Michigan for over 20 years, Brad remained a loyal Vikings fan. The Vikings and the Lions football games had always sparked intense and fun rivalry between Brad and his Michigan friends. Bradley's life was a testament to the power of faith. He was a recovered addict for 39 years and served as a mentor to others who coped with addiction. Brad was an active member of The BLVD Church, and was also actively involved in the Men's Bible Study group at Embody Church in Holland, MI. His devotion to God was carried out through his life of service and building relationships, connecting people: anonymously paying meals for elderly or disabled people at restaurants; handing out gas cards to long-distance commuters, helping neighbors with yard work. He never missed an opportunity to explain, share, or pass along his love of faith and God, his struggles through addiction and the final battle with cancer. Throughout his journey, he strongly believed in God to the last message, "My Faith remains strong. I have experienced miracles in my life and I have witnessed miracles." His "social butterfly" personality shone bright in his community. He touched many lives with kindness, built a life full of meaningful friendships and memories that will endure with people from all sorts of life. Those who knew Brad will forever cherish his weekly messages of gratitude, encouragement, his love of God, and his contagious laughter. A Visitation will be held at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E 16th Street - Holland, MI 49423) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00pm. A memorial service will be held at The Boulevard Church (238 W 15th Street – Holland, MI 49423) on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 1:00pm. Memorial contributions may be given to Celebrate Recovery, through Central Wesleyan Church. https://pushpay.com/g/wecentralholland. Please specify Celebrate Recovery.

Tributes

Bradley R. Kraywinkel

February 28, 1964 - December 24, 2025