Frank A. Kroiss

Frank "Ol Bean" Arthur Kroiss, 82, of Darboy passed away on March 15, 2025 peacefully with his family by his side. He was born on October 1, 1942 in Appleton, the son of the late Frank and Mary (Wittmann) Kroiss.  On November 6, 1970, he was united in marriage to Carla (Evers Reinke) in Combined Locks.  

A proud, lifelong resident of Darboy, USA.  Frank was a graduate of both Holy Angels Grade School and Kimberly High School (to the surprise of many) and went on to work a long and fulfilling career with The Boldt Construction Company as a crane operator for 43 years.  He had many memorable moments at work and always had a story to tell about those days.  He had a terrific sense of pride in working for Boldt and made lifelong friends through his work and hobbies.    

He was awarded the Civilian Service Certificate for helping to save a woman's life with his quick thinking and skillful actions in spite of the danger to which he was exposed.  This shouldn't surprise anyone who knows him.    

Frank had a skillful hand in concrete work, helping to pour driveways and slabs for all of his family and friends, likely pouring half of all the driveways in Darboy.  He took such pride in doing all of his work, could operate a bobcat like a champ, had a love for wood working and stone creations.  His work ethic ran deep. 

Beyond his work life, Frank had a deep love for bowling, pool, bottle collecting, and photos of all types.  Frank achieved the perfect bowling score of 300 six times, though in his words he only remembers the 297s. If you are a bowler that sentiment will ring true.  He made his bowling TV debut appearing on Strikes and Spares for cash, making a haul of $50 (we don't really know, but we know he was upset for not having one of his best outings).  

He and Carla enjoyed spending their winters in Arizona where he had a knack for looking for rare rocks in the wash.  They enjoyed their hikes in the mountains, dinner and drinks with their friends, and welcoming visitors with open arms.    

Frank cherished the time spent with his wife, Carla Babe, his kids and grandkids.  He especially enjoyed watching and attending his grandkids sporting events and special occasions.  He loved sponsoring and supporting his kids in many softball and volleyball leagues and tournaments, probably his dearest were the mud volleyball tournaments in Kimberly and Light the Lights softball in Menasha.    

Frank's faith guided him throughout his life.  He was a parishioner of Holy Angels Catholic Church and St. Paul's Catholic Church.  Frank was a lector and communion distributor to those in our community for years.  Even in his final days, his faith never waivered which continues to be a source of strength for his family.

Those Frank leaves behind to cherish his memory include his wife, Carla; three children: Robert (Julie) Reinke, Jodi (Tim) Schumacher, Tami (Jeremy) Morrow; his grandchildren: Brett Reinke, Haley (Nick) Johnson, Hanna Reinke (Roman Buss), Megan Reinke (special friend Kevin Liu), Samantha Schumacher (special friend Josh Zeff), Tristin Schumacher (special friend Lindsey Luchsinger), Alex Morrow (special friend Teagan Joyce), Carlie Morrow (fiance Brekkan Spens); his brothers: Kenneth (Vicki) Kroiss, Dan (Chris) Kroiss; brother-in-law, Mike Frahm; sisters: Mary Kay Kroiss, Peggy (Randy) Conrad; and sister-in-law, Lori Kroiss; as well as many nieces, nephews and special friends who he held dear.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Susie Frahm; brothers: Richard Kroiss and Mike Kroiss; sister-in-law, Nancy Kroiss; and niece, Amie Giese.      

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Compassus Hospice, nurse Kara and CNA Ashley.  They provided wonderful support to all of us during the last few months of Frank's life.  Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home provided a source of strength for all of us as we prepared in the celebration of his life.  In addition, we would like to thank Dr. Michael Warner and his nursing team as they developed a very close and supportive relationship with Frank throughout the last few years.  Finally, we would like to thank our mom, her care and support of Dad during the past year has been extraordinary.  We are so grateful for the example you have set for all of us.

Frank's family will greet family and friends at St. Paul Catholic Church, 410 Wallace St, Combined Locks, on Saturday, March 22, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m.  Father Bob Stegmann will officiate the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in Frank’s name. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.