John Trana

John Trana was a highly esteemed coordinator and QB coach for football teams throughout Europe. His experience includes stints in Italy, Sweden and Russia.

He is survived by his wife Kristin (Olsen) Trana of Brookings, SD; daughters Sydney and Shelby; as well as many extended family and friends. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him best.

Early Life and Education

John Trana was born in 1865 to Rasmus Mortensen Trana and Johanna Mortensen Trana of Minnesota, USA.

Over time, he achieved success as a lawyer, developing his reputation and building an impressive name for himself.

He directed Documented, a documentary feature film that explored his undocumented journey. Broadcasted on CNN and streamed on Netflix, the movie earned an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Documentary in 2015.

Wally enjoyed his years in Idaho, but the lure of the Pacific Northwest called him back. He settled near Mukilteo, WA and founded Sea Port Controls which has since expanded to include offices in Portland and Seattle. Many of Wally’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren still reside nearby.

Professional Career

John Trana was an acclaimed professional in both finance and music. He served as portfolio manager for Bernardi Securities Inc., in addition to producing and directing Documented, a documentary feature film.

In addition to his many professional accomplishments, he is a father of two daughters and husband to Kristin Olsen. Survived by his parents Marvin and Judith Trana as well as brothers Matthew and Steven, he leaves behind many loving family members.

John was a high school football coach who won several state titles and guided Thunder Ridge HS to 4A competition. As coordinator and QB coach in Europe, John was an influential force as he guided teams such as Zagreb Patriots, Moscow Patriots and Limhamn Griffins to European success. Now back home in Australia, John serves as head coach of Melbourne University Gridiron Club.

Achievements and Honors

John Trana was a celebrated pianist and organist, as well as being an outstanding leader in Corteva Agriscience’s digital crop protection program.

He was a loving father and husband who made himself an invaluable member of the Minnehaha County community. His daughters learned how to be independent and self-sufficient while building their lives and careers with him by his side.

On April 19th, his academic accomplishments and exceptional service to his peers and community were recognized at an Honors Day ceremony in Benedict Auditorium to a near full house. He was presented with the Hilda and Morris Betten Award in recognition of his academic success, dedication to studies, as well as outstanding service to peers and community.

Personal Life

John Trana is an acclaimed professional in the football coaching field. He has held coaching posts with teams throughout Italy, Sweden and Australia.

He was renowned for his ability to develop talented players. Additionally, he had a deep faith in God and was always willing to work hard and do whatever it took for his team to win.

John was born in Alexandria, Minnesota on April 2, 1980 and married to Kristin Trana (Olsen). Survived by his parents Marvin and Judith Trana; two daughters Sydney and Shelby; brothers Matthew and Steven as well as numerous extended family members and friends, John will be deeply missed by his family members and friends forever.