James R. Kraay, 77, of Owatonna, died Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at Homestead Hospice House. He was born September 3, 1934 in Hollandale, Minnesota the son of Cornelius and Susie (Aartsen) Kraay. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1952. He then began farming with his brothers in Hollandale. Jim married Darlene Nelson on May 30, 1955 at the United Methodist Church in Albert Lea. On June 7, 1955 he entered the United States Army and was honorably discharged on June 6, 1957. In 1957, the couple moved to Owatonna where he and his brothers did vegetable farming as Kraay Brothers Inc. until his retirement in 1992. Family was the most important thing in Jim's life. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling. He especially enjoyed spending time at the cabin and winters in Florida. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Owatonna, Elk's Club and Eagles. He is survived by his wife, Darlene Kraay of Owatonna; three children, Mary (and Terry) Barker of Waterville, Doug (and Dana) Kraay of Mound, and Julie (and Mike) Fineran of Eagan; six grandchildren, Kristin (and Bruce) Velzke, Amy (and Nick) Cram, Jack and Max Kraay, and Kayla and Noah Fineran; two great granddaughters, Briley and Alix Velzke; two sisters, Gertie Silvis of Morago, CA, and Sue Veldman of Hollandale; brother, Bob (and Till) Kraay of Owatonna. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Jason Barker, sister, Eva Posthumus, and two brothers, Ralph Kraay and J.C. Kraay. Visitation will be at United Methodist Church on Saturday, February 25, 2012 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM . Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 2:00 PM at United Methodist Church with The Reverend Loren Olson officiating. Memorials are preferred to Homestead Hospice House, United Methodist Church or donor's choice. Michaelson Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Visitation: 02/25/2012 13:00 02/25/2012 14:00 Service: Owatonna 02/25/2012 14:00