Rosholt fair building campaign gets boost from family’s memorial gift

By Patrick Lynn

ROSHOLT — Some 14 years after losing their son unexpectedly, a Rosholt couple is honoring his memory by helping build something they hope will serve the community for generations.

Mark and Kris Kranski have donated to the Rosholt Fairgrounds Building Project through a legacy fund established in memory of their son, Brian C. Kranski, who died unexpectedly in 2012 at the age of 24. The gift will help fund a new year-round community event center at Fair Hill.

For the Kranskis, the project is about more than a building.

Both grew up in Rosholt and have attended the Rosholt Fair every year since 1968. They started dating as sophomores in high school and spent evenings together on Fair Hill, where they watched the stars. Now, after 47 years of marriage, they say the fairgrounds remain one of the places that best represents their hometown.

“It’s heartwarming for us to give the gift of Brian’s legacy,” Kris Kranski said.

Mark Kranski also spent 10 years on the Rosholt Fair Board, helping organize bands, run concession stands and grow the annual fair.

After Brian’s death, the family established a memorial fund through the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin. Rather than immediately choosing a project, they allowed the fund to grow until they found one that felt right. They said the planned event center at the fairgrounds was an easy choice.

The project is part of the Rosholt Fair’s 100th anniversary celebration in 2026. Organizers are raising $1.7 million to construct a modern facility that can host community events year-round, including weddings, fundraisers, youth activities, live entertainment and public gatherings.

Plans call for climate-controlled event space, modern restrooms, catering facilities, a stage and covered outdoor gathering areas. Campaign organizers say just over $1 million has already been raised.

“This new building on top of the hill is a symbol of growth,” Mark Kranski said. “This is an investment in the future.”

The Kranskis said they hope their family’s gift encourages others to support the project as well.

“There’s no gift too small,” Kris Kranski said. “Every dollar counts.”

To learn more about the project, or to contribute, click here.