A Celebration of Life for Jason will be on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at the Scranton Community Center from 2-6. A time of Prayer and stories will begin at 3:30pm.  All are welcome.

Jason Dean Kromarek, 51, of Scranton, ND, passed away on November 6, 2024, in Bismarck, ND.  Born on a frosty day in Hettinger, ND, February 16, 1973, to Allan and Donna Kromarek, he joined siblings, Debbie and Scott.  Debbie always thought he made too much noise, but then was right there if he made a little noise.  Scott was not impressed, as he couldn't even play tractors with him.

Jason grew up on the farm south of Scranton.  As a child, he enjoyed fishing and swimming in the river and sledding down the hills in the wintertime.   He loved critters—from minnows and water snakes to frogs and toads, from injured birds and baby mice to cuddly kittens and face-kissing puppies.  He attended school in Scranton from kindergarten through graduation in the spring of 1991.

After graduation, he moved away from home for a number of years, working as a pipefitter installing fire suppression systems.  He also tried sheet metal work, welding, and retail sales and service.  The open skies and country living drew him back to the farm, where he helped his parents with the farming and livestock.

Jason met Stacy Sargeant in 1994, and they brought 2 sonsinto the world, Jaric and Devin. Jaric and Devin became the center of Jason's world.  Jason shared his love of gaming, animals, music and the Green Bay Packers with the boys, and his sons developed similar passions as they grew.

Jason loved music and enjoyed playing the guitar.  He and the boys would spend hours jamming to CD's or jamming out on guitars.  It was amazing how he could listen to a tune, grab his guitar, start picking the strings, and play the song, with no help of sheet music.  As his father's health declined, Jason spent many nights sitting on the floor at his feet.  He would randomly strum his guitar or play a country song.  This seemed to calm his dad's agitations and brought peace and pleasure.

Jason married Julie Bjorness, in June of 2012, in Medora, ND.   Their wedding vows blended 2 families, adding son, Damian and daughter, Adia.  As the kids grew and moved away from the farm, Jason turned to gardening and his household pets for enjoyment and relaxation.  Though he toiled laboriously with his flowers, strawberries and vegetables, it never seemed to fail that the deer and rabbits reaped the rewards of his efforts.  Over the years, he had numerous housecats and dogs, and it was common for them to trail after him, rub lovingly against him, or share the chair with him for an afternoon snooze.  Many phone calls with his mother entailed stories of crazy, goofy antics performed by one of his furry buddies.  Jason became a grandfather a little over a year ago and loved to tell others about granddaughter, Reagan, citing her growth, sweet actions and overall cuteness.  Jason would have welcomed a new grandbaby this upcoming March, but will now instead become their guardian angel.

Jason is survived by his loving wife, Julie Kromarek; sons, Devin Kromarek, Jaric Kromarek, and Damian Cowley (wife Trisha); his daughter, Adia Valloff (husband Vance and grandchild Reagan); his mother, Donna Kromarek; his sister, Debbie Croker (husband James); and his brother Scott Kromarek (wife Deni). He is also survived by his father-in-law, John Bjorness.  Friends and neighbors, in-laws, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins are also left to grieve the loss of Jason.  His family remembers him as a dedicated father, husband, brother, and son whose presence enriched their lives immeasurably.  His wit, humor and smirks will be greatly missed.

Jason was preceded in death by his father, Allan Kromarek; his paternal grandparents, Pete and Eloise Kromarek; his maternal grandparents, Earl and Alvina Hansen; and his nephew, Tanner Kromarek.  He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Jim Bjorness and mother-in-law, Evelyn Bjorness.

Jason's life was one of quiet dedication, a trait that extended into all his relationships and endeavors.  During a rough time in his life, Jason questioned, "Why is it so easy to say, 'I Love You', but so hard to show it?"  As a tribute to Jason, please remember that a hug or a smile can mean a lot to a person facing problems.  Don't hesitate to show your love each day.