Harold H. Krieger Dies Following Surgical Procedure at Age 62

Harold H. Krieger, a man whose life spanned from rural Minnesota to the jazz-filled nights of Atlanta, has died. He was 62. Krieger passed away in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on October 9, 2026, the day after a surgical procedure.

Born and raised in Rochester, Minnesota, Krieger spent his earliest years in the Historic Southwest neighborhood before his family relocated to an 80-acre farm west of Douglas. It was there that he developed the character and interests that would carry him through adulthood—a country lifestyle shaped by hunting, horseback riding, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

After attending John Adams Middle School, he graduated from John Marshall High School in 1982. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin, where he majored in International Studies and became an active member of the Alpha Iota Chapter of the Chi Psi National Fraternity. His peers from that era often recall his accomplished skiing, a pursuit that took him across the slopes of the Rocky Mountains long before he ventured south.

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From Atlanta Jazz to Family Care

Following his graduation in 1987, Krieger moved to Atlanta, Georgia. It was in the city’s vibrant music scene that he found a unique professional niche, managing the operations at Dante’s Down Under, an upscale jazz venue where he built a lucrative career for several years.

In the mid-1990s, following the passing of his father, Judge Harold G. Krieger, he returned to Rochester. His primary focus shifted toward the care of his mother, Pauline Krieger. He remained a devoted presence in her life until her death in 2024, at which point he relocated to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to begin a new chapter that was ultimately cut short.

Remembering a Generous Soul

Friends and family describe Krieger as a man of quiet generosity. His life was marked by a profound devotion to his extended family, particularly his nieces and nephews. He leaves behind a brother, Westscot G. Krieger; two sisters, Lisa Krieger and Jean Krieger; nephews Westscot H. Krieger and William Krieger; and nieces Kyla Jones Crispe, Kathryn Jones, and McKenna Kranz.

In alignment with his wishes, Krieger was cremated. Those who wish to honor his memory are invited to an open house celebration of his life, scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026. The event will take place from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Evergreen Room at Centerstone Plaza. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to the Disabled American Veterans, an organization Krieger supported during his lifetime.

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