David J. Praska

David Joseph. Praska, 85 a long time resident of the Park River area passed away on Friday, October 9th, 2015 at his home of Park River. David J. Praska was born July 24th, 1930 near Pisek, ND the son of the late Frank and Julia (Jarus) Praska. He grew up and graduated from Park River High School in 1948. He was united in marriage to Betty Novak on May 14, 1952 in Lankin, ND. Dave enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1953 with an honorable discharge in 1955. The couple then made their home in Lankin and Adams before settling in Park River in 1964 where they raised five children. Dave started his working career as a grain elevator employee in Adams, ND. Later, he worked as a federal grain inspector for the Department of Agriculture in which it became his life long career. Dave was very involved in his church and community. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Park River American Legion, the Knight of Columbus and in later years a city council member for the City of Park River. Dave was active as an Amateur Radio Operator, a member of the Walsh County Amateur Radio Club, a charter member of the Valley Czech Singers and served as an EMT with the Park River Ambulance Service. Dave enjoyed spending time with friends and family. He loved to play cards and was active in the area whist club. In 2011, Dave was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and was treated at the University of Minnesota Medical Center. Dave was able to continue his retirement until this year when his health began to take a turn for the worst. He remained at home under the care of his children until the time of his death. .Dave is survived by his children: Doug (Sue) Praska, Grafton, ND; Debbie (Lynn) Nelson, Minot, ND; Guy Praska, Park River, ND; Mary Peenie (Scott) Rand, Thief River Falls, MN; six grandchildren: Shawn (Julie) Praska, Jeremy Praska, Jason Nelson, Julie (Bill) Moser, Justin (Audrey) Kachena and Josh Rand. He is also survived by several great grandchildren and many wonderful friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, his parents, brother, Paul Praska and daughter, Julie Praska. Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Visitation will be Tuesday, October 13, 2015 from 5-7 PM with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at the Tollefson Funeral Home of Park River, ND. Friends may also call at the church on Wednesday for one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery, Park River, ND. Military rites will be provided by the Paul Farup American Legion Post and the North Dakota National Guard Honor Guard.