James Oraskovich

James G. Oraskovich, 73, of Pequot Lakes, died at his home Wednesday, January 13, 2016. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, January 18, 2016 at St. Christopher's Catholic Church in Nisswa. Family and friends are invited to gather Sunday afternoon from 2-4 PM at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Pequot Lakes and at the church Monday morning beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at a later date at the Lutheran Church of the Cross Columbarium.

James was born April 20, 1942, in Duluth, MN, the son of George and Edna (Maunu) Oraskovich. He graduated from Barnum High School and dedicated his life to education. He attended the University of Minnesota - St. Paul Campus and Bemidji State University and received his teaching degree. He taught for eight years in Pine City before attending St. Cloud State University to earn his Master's in Education. He was the Assistant Middle School Principal in Milaca for five years before accepting a position with the Pequot Lakes School District in 1979 where he was a K-8 principal for many years. During this time he attended St. Cloud State University for his Specialist Degree. At the completion of his schooling, he served for 10 years as the District's Superintendent. Jim was instrumental in the construction of Eagle View Elementary School, as well as being active at St. Alice Church, Bean Hole Days, and Lakes Area Restorative Justice Project. Jim was recognized for his contributions in various organizations: Administration of Excellence - Region 5, Rotarian of the Year, Minnesota Principal Award, Past President of the Pequot Lakes Lions Club, and Treasurer of the Pequot Lakes City Council. He was a proud member of AA for many years, served on the Board of Directors for LAMDA and RSVP, as well as being the Chairperson for the Patriot Foundation.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors - especially gardening, fishing, and hunting. He was very proud to be involved with two Governor's Fishing Openers. He also liked cars, his favorites a 1970 Pontiac LeMans. He was proud of his John Deere Tractor. He was involved with 4-H and also enjoyed making maple syrup.

Jim will be missed by many and is survived by his wife of 44 years, Charlotte (Auten); children, Kelly Oraskovich, of Brainerd and Sadie Oraskovich, of Maple Grove; sister, Barbara Hammitt, of Barnum; brothers, Vernon, of New Prague, Larry, of Sturgeon Lake, David, of Waseca, and Kenneth, of Clearbrook; sister-in-law, Dorothy Yonke; and brother-in-law, Bill Auten. He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to donor's choice.