Obituary of David Ojanen

Dave was born on May 24, 1952 and died peacefully surrounded by family on November 10, 2023. Dave grew up in Proctor and moved back a few years ago. He was a proud “Proctor Boy.” Dave graduated from Proctor High school in 1970. He served in the Army for 2 years and was stationed in Germany at the time of service. He married his wife Lou (Louise) Kurtovich on June 21, 1977. They have 2 sons Dan and Tom Ojanen. Dave worked for many years in the sanitation field, retiring in 2010.

Dave loved to spend time going to the races, especially the dirt tracks. If you knew Dave you know that he also loved talking and talking about NASCAR racing and anything to do with racing. He was named “Pitman of the Year” with the Jim Eliason racing team. Dave was an avid bowler in Duluth in the 1970’s and 80’s and won many tournaments throughout his bowling career. He loved watching his boys in baseball and bowling. Dave also loved to deer hunt and always hoped for that big buck.

Dave was preceded in his death by his parents Al and Violet Ojanen, his brother Gary Ojanen and his furry friends Kelly, Kasey and Katie.

Dave is survived by his wife Lou Ojanen, sons Dan and Tom (Christie) Ojanen and granddaughters Mia, Thea and Lucy, brothers Don (Paulette) Ojanen and Ed Ojanen as well as numerous sisters and brothers-in-law.

The family would like to thank Essentia Health Hospice team and the Solvay House for all the wonderful care Dave received. A special thanks to Anne Skwira-Brown APRN, CNP.

There will be a celebration of life held at the Buffalo House restaurant banquet building on Sunday November 26, 2023 from 12 PM to 4 PM, 2590 Guss Rd, Duluth MN 55810.