Vernon A. Oraskovich, 78

Vernon A. Oraskovich of New Prague, Minnesota, died peacefully at his home on February 26, 2024, at the age of 78. Vernon was born in Duluth, Minnesota, to George and Edna (Maunu) Oraskovich. Vernon is survived by his loving wife and best friend Cindi of New Prague; survived by his former wife, Carrol Oraskovich and their children: Lisa Carlson of Young America; Michael Oraskovich of Davenport, Iowa; Deanna (Mike) Logelin of Lakeville; siblings Barbara Hammit (Ronnie), Larry Oraskovich (Donna), David Oraskovich (Gwen), Ken Oraskovich (Bonnie), the late Jim Oraskovich (Char); grandchildren, Aaron Carlson, Patrick Carlson (Alex), Ashley Carlson, Whitney Ober (Greg), Chase Logelin, Cade Logelin, Cole Logelin, Carson Logelin, Megan May, and Trevor May; great-grandchildren, Sean Carlson, Rhylin Carlson, and Griffin Ober; Cindi’s children, Kjerstin Moody (Edward Lee and his daughter Dooni), Anton Moody (Brienne), their children Eero Moody and Hiver Moody; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Vern grew up on a very successful 340-acre dairy farm in Carlton County. His parents kept up on the latest technologies and resources. They utilized University of Minnesota Extension Educators and specialists to implement practices on their dairy farm. As a youth, he loved caring for the herd and was known for showing quality purebred and grade Holstein dairy at county fairs, regional dairy shows, and the Minnesota State Fair. He graduated from Barnum High School in 1963. One of his highlights was playing Tom Sawyer in the Junior Class Play.

His experiences were very positive, which influenced his decision to attend the University of Minnesota and major in Dairy Science. What he didn’t know then was that his major required four quarters of chemistry…what a challenge, since he had no chemistry in high school. Vernon received his B.S. in Dairy Science, Minor in Agricultural Economics in 1967 and his Master’s Degree in Ag Education with an emphasis in Dairy. Upon graduating, he served as an Extension Educator in Goodhue County, followed by nine years in Olmsted County and approximately 20 years in Carver County. In his last ten years he served as regional dairy specialist.
He was very instrumental in developing new dairy programs for the University of Minnesota. Examples include a program to improve profitability, productivity, and quality of life on dairy farms (DPEP). He provided leadership to the task force for milkhouse and feedlot waste. He traveled extensively throughout Minnesota, Australia, New Zealand and Russia as a resource person to assist in the development of commercial dairy management programs. Vern has been recognized with the following awards: Silver Pitcher Award – American Dairy Association; Public Information Award – Minnesota Association of Extension Educators; Distinguished Service Award – National Association of Extension Educators; National Dairy Shrine Award; and the National Dairy Science Award.

Vernon had been a devout member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and had previously served as a lector at Ascension Church in Norwood.

Vern’s sense of humor and quick wit will be missed. We’ll miss this caring, gentle and loving man.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, March 11, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday from 4-7 PM and Monday morning from 8:30-9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home. Lunch will follow Mass at Ridges at Sandcreek Golf Course. bruzekfuneralhome.com