Edwin “Butch” J. Pogatschnik, 82, Avon, MN

Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Avon, for Edwin “Butch” J. Pogatschnik, age 82, of Avon, who died on Saturday, August 25, 2012 at Cherrywood Advanced Living, Richmond, surrounded by his loving family. Rev. Blane Wasnie, OSB officiated and burial followed in the parish cemetery.

Butch was born March 12, 1930 in St. Joseph to John and Bertha (Schloemer) Pogatschnik. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp. Butch married Mary Ann Chock on September 21, 1954 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, St. Anna. He owned and operated Avon Elevator from 1959 to 2007. Butch served on the Board of Directors for Avon State Bank for over 40 years, and served on the Avon City Council. He was a member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church; attending many of the church social gatherings throughout the years, and serving one term on the parish council. Butch is a member of the Avon Legion, and life member of the Holdingford VFW #5160. He is a 22 year retired Avon Fireman, and was very proud to have three generations involved in the fire department. He was most proud of his family and grandchildren.
Butch is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Mary Ann of Avon; children, Bob (Karen) of Cold Spring, Rick (Sharon) of St. Anna, Dan (Sue) of Avon, Laurie (Mark) Swenson of East Grand Forks, MN; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, John; sisters, Magdalene, Lorraine, Evelyn, Esther, Yvette, Mel; and grand-daughter, Anna.