Date : 02 May 2009
Location : Peace Lutheran Cemetery, Finlayson, MN
Raymond "Bud" Laska died Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at Pine Medical Center in Sandstone, at the age of 90 years. Bud was born in New Brighton, MN on Sept.1, 1918 to Vincent and Anna Laska. The family moved to the Big Pine Lake area when Bud was a child. Bud always had a love for music, and as a teenager started trapping, saving the money he received for the pelts to purchase his first accordion, along with about five lessons in Duluth. Throughout his life, he played accordion and with other local musicians, formed the “Bud Laska Orchestra” which played at local gatherings, dances, weddings, and often traveled to the St. Paul area to play at the Prom Ball Room and other dance halls.
Bud worked at various jobs including farming, over the road trucking, construction worker, and as foreman for Barton Contracting Company in Maple Grove. He enjoyed all things outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and trapping. He always enjoyed playing baseball, and was a devout follower of the Minnesota Twins. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge and his life’s experiences with others. He belonged to the Men’s Club and was a former Elder of Peace Lutheran Church. He was also a former member of the Finlayson Sportsmen Club.
Bud married Bertha Sprandel on Sept. 10, 1942. They had been married over 66 years and were blessed with two daughters, Judy (Leslie) Richardson and June Hill. Bud is survived by his wife, two daughter’s seven grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.
Funeral services for Raymond "Bud" Laska were held Saturday, May 2, 2009 at 11 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in Finlayson with Rev. Matthew Vrudny officiating. Organist was June Hill. Casket bearers were Kirk Richardson, George Richardson, Ray Richardson, Mark Richardson, Keith Laska and Eric Jensen. Interment was at Peace Lutheran Cemetery, Finlayson.
Arrangements by Methven Funeral Home, Sandstone, MN.
Askov American - May 7, 2009
