Jan Kankrlik

Jan Kankrlik, 68, of Bozeman, MT passed away January 4, 2012. He was born in Plzen, Czechoslovakia to Frank and Josephine Kankrlik during the time Communists were trying to take control of the country. Not wanting to be part of the Communist regime, the family gave up everything and escaped to Germany, making sure they were #8220;caught#8221; by American Soldiers. They immigrated to the United States, getting passage on an American Destroyer. His Dad was a Master Chef and various opportunities brought the family to Dallas, TX. Shortly after his arrival in Dallas, he met Margaret. She was 9 years old and he was 11. Their initial friendship grew into something stronger as they dated through their high school and college years. They were married in September, 1969 and have enjoyed 42 years of married life together. Jan received his Bachelor#8217;s Degree from Southern Methodist University, his Master#8217;s Degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, and his Doctorate from Pacific Western University. His expertise in neurophysiology and biomedical engineering enabled him to have a very interesting and successful career developing products for government systems and specialized technology for the military. He grew up with a fascination and appreciation for cars and enjoyed building his car collection and participated in many car clubs and their events. At age 46 he discovered Scottish Highland Games, decided to participate, worked hard on the Caber Toss, 42 lb. weights for height and distance, heavy and light hammer throw, and Braemar stone, and won the inaugural National Championship in the Master#8217;s Class in 1995. Retirement brought the Kankrlik#8217;s to Bozeman, Montana in 2001 where they have enjoyed the beautiful scenery, wildlife, and warmth of the people. Thanks to Doctors Blair Erb and John Robbins and the wonderful nursing staff at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital for adding nine years to his life. Jan is survived by his wife, Margaret, in-laws Margaret Neitzel, Margaret Hardin, Charlotte Neitzel, Stockton Baker, Robert and Karen Hardin, Gloria Hardin, Michael and Amanda Hardin, Michelle Johnson, grand niece, Charis Johnson and grand nephews Brandon Johnson, and Noah, Jacob, and Caleb Hardin. A celebration of life will be held January 13, 2012 at 11:00 am in the Kankrlik home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Adopt A Sox, P.O. Box 6113, Bozeman, MT 59771, or to a charity of your choice.