* John B. "Jack" Connelly (1921-2001): While not born in Crookston, Connelly served as the city's mayor for 16 years (1962-1978) and was a significant figure in local politics. He was also a state senator and representative, leaving a lasting impact on the region.
* Steve Kelley (1961-present): Although not born in Crookston, Kelley, a nationally syndicated editorial cartoonist, grew up there. He's been a prominent voice in the world of political cartooning, working for publications like the Detroit Free Press and the Los Angeles Times.
* Larry D. "Butch" Otter (1949-present): While not born in Crookston, Otter, a former governor of Idaho, has deep family roots in the area and considers it his hometown. He attended high school in Crookston before embarking on a career in politics.
* Other Notable Mentions:
* Thomas B. "Tom" Berg (1942-2010): A former Democratic member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, Berg was also a successful businessman and was born and raised in Crookston.
* William "Bill" H. Peterson (1911-2005): An influential figure in the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, Peterson was born and raised in Crookston. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives and was known for his work on rural issues.
While these names are not household names, they represent the diverse and talented individuals that Crookston has produced. There are also many local heroes and unsung individuals who have made significant contributions to the community, enriching its history and culture.