Under the Red Roof: Don Croall and the Opening of Granger's Der Wienerschnitzel
Donald Croall: helped open the Der Wienerschnitzel on 3500 south.
Donald Croall’s life was defined by perseverance, dedication, and quiet strength. Born on August 26, 1934, in Boring, Oregon, Don’s early years were marked by change and courage. After his parents separated, he moved with his mother and stepfather to Provo, Utah. When his mother passed away at just 24 years old, five-year-old Don made a brave solo train journey from Provo back to Portland, Oregon, to live with his grandmother. There, he was raised on a strawberry farm, developing the strong work ethic that would define his entire 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 instilled discipline, humility, and service—traits that remained hallmarks of his character.
After returning home, Don built a wonderful life with Kristeen Jensen, whom he married in the Logan Utah Temple on June 30, 1967.
Don was a man who never shied away from hard work. Early in his career, he was a Salt Lake City police officer, where he served his community with integrity and calm strength. Later, Don stepped into the world of business, helping to open Blimpie’s in downtown Salt Lake City.
Then he helped open the Wienerschnitzel in Granger over 50 years ago, a restaurant that still serves the community today. His involvement in bringing Wienerschnitzel to the area reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and his belief in helping communities grow. That early West Valley location became a local favorite and remains a nostalgic piece of the city’s dining history—a lasting reminder of Don’s vision and work ethic.
Eventually, Don began a long and successful career in transportation, working for UTA for 23 years. A highlight of his time there was achieving one million accident-free miles—a milestone few ever reach. He also drove for LeBus & Lewis Brothers in Salt Lake City and LTR in Las Vegas, earning respect everywhere he went for his reliability and professionalism.
Outside of work, Don found joy in simple, meaningful pursuits. He loved sports—cheering for the Utah Jazz, BYU Cougars, Utah Utes, and Dallas Cowboys—but his true hobby was his yard. Don’s home and yard were a source of pride and beauty, recognized by West Valley City’s Yard Beautification Award on three separate occasions. Neighbors fondly remember seeing him outside, broom in hand, sweeping the street and gutter in front of his home—an image that perfectly captures his quiet dedication and love of order and care.
In church service, Don was equally devoted, faithfully serving in many callings, including Executive Secretary for five bishops. His humble nature, patience, and ever-present smile made him a source of comfort and steadiness to all who knew him. Even as Parkinson’s Disease challenged him later in life, Don continued to serve and attend the temple as long as he was able.
In 2018, one of the highlights of Don’s life was participating in the Utah Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., alongside his son Jeff—a fitting tribute to a man who had served his country and community with quiet honor.
Donald Croall will always be remembered as a man of devotion—to family, faith, country, and community. His legacy lives on not only through his loving family but also through the tangible marks he left across West Valley City—from a thriving Wienerschnitzel still serving locals today to the countless lives he touched with kindness, humility, and hard work.
