Under the Red Roof: Don Croall and the Opening of Granger's der Wienerschnitzel
Donald Croall: A Life of Service, Hard Work, and Community Pride
Donald Croall’s life was defined by perseverance, dedication, and quiet strength. Born on August 26, 1934, in Oregon, Don’s early years were marked by courage and resilience. After his parents separated, he moved with his mother and stepfather to Provo, Utah. When his mother passed away at only 24 years old, five-year-old Don made a brave solo train journey from Provo back to Oregon, to live with his grandmother. There, he was raised on a strawberry farm, where he learned the discipline and work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.
At age 17, Don enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving for eight years aboard the USS Bunting and the USS Greer County during the Korean War. His time in the Navy shaped his lifelong sense of service, humility, and responsibility.
After returning home, Don married Kristeen Jensen in 1967. Together they built a strong and loving family, raising three children—Randy, Jeff, and Shanna.
Don was a man who approached every chapter of life with purpose and integrity. Early in his career, he worked as a Salt Lake City police officer, serving his community with steadiness and respect. He later shifted to business, where he left a lasting mark on West Valley City’s history. Don played a pivotal role in acquiring the old Morrison Meat Pies A-frame restaurant building and transforming it into the area’s new der Wienerschnitzel—a red-roof landmark that still stands and serves the community today. Don not only helped establish the restaurant, he also managed it for several years, ensuring its success and creating a place fondly remembered by generations of locals. His work helped anchor a piece of Granger’s early business growth and culinary history.
Eventually, Don transitioned to a long and successful career in transportation, working for UTA for 23 years. He was known for his precision and safety, achieving one million accident-free miles, an extraordinary milestone. Always putting family first, Don chose the early morning shift so he could be home in the afternoons to greet his children when they came home from school—a quiet but profound reflection of his devotion as a father. He also drove for LeBus & Lewis Brothers in Salt Lake City and LTR in Las Vegas, earning admiration everywhere he went for his reliability and professionalism.
Don’s passions extended to his community and his home. He was an avid sports fan—cheering for the Utah Jazz, BYU, Utah Utes, and the Dallas Cowboys—but his true joy was found in caring for his yard. His dedication was evident in every detail, earning him the City’s Yard Beautification Award three times. As you drove down 3100 south you would probably see Don outside, sweeping the gutter and sidewalk in front of his home—an image that perfectly captured his pride, discipline, and love of order.
Deeply devoted to his faith, Don served in many church callings, including as Executive Secretary for five bishops, a role he especially treasured. He approached every assignment with patience, humility, and a ready smile. Even as Parkinson’s Disease later limited his abilities, Don continued to serve and attend the temple faithfully for as long as possible.
In 2018, one of the great highlights of his later life was participating in the Utah Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., accompanied by his son Jeff—a meaningful tribute to his service during the Korean War.
Donald Croall passed away October 2025 and will be remembered as a man of quiet strength and unwavering devotion—to family, faith, and community. His legacy lives on not only through his loving family, but also through his lasting contributions to West Valley City—from the beloved der Wienerschnitzel under the red roof, to the countless lives he touched with kindness and example. His story is a reminder that true community builders work humbly, serve faithfully, and leave behind footprints that endure for generations.
