James Avron
James Odell Avron, the son of the late Odin and Martha (Wettestad) Avron, was born on January 13, 1952, at Roseau, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church of Thief Lake, near Middle River, and was a life-long member there. James attended grade school at Gatzke and high school at Middle River. In August of 1973 James enlisted with the United States Army. He proudly served his country during Vietnam. James was honorably discharged in 1976 and returned to the family farm at Thief Lake. From 1978 until 1983 he was employed by Chanlin Inc., where he was an excellent welder, dependable, and fun to be around. His co-workers could always be found around “Chooch” during their breaks because of his colorful nature. James was employed at Polaris Industries in Roseau from 1993 until retirement in 2006. James was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting deer, bear and trapping. Every year he planted and tended to a large, beautiful garden. James was a member of the Middle River American Legion Post #444 of Middle River, the Sons of Norway, and was Treasurer of the Setesdalslaget of America. He visited Norway six times, spoke Norwegian fluently, and was proud of his Norwegian heritage. Those who knew and loved James, Jimmy, Jim, Chooch, can attest to his playful character. He will be greatly missed. James passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday morning, April 15, 2018, at the age of 66 years, 3 months, and 2 days. James is survived by his sisters and brother, Renie Kezar of Thief River Falls, MN, Gordon (and his wife, Judy) Avron, of Contoocook, NH, and Susan Brown of Strathcona, MN; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, great great-nieces and great great-nephews; many special cousins, relatives, wonderful friends and neighbors, and his faithful companion and baby, Maybe. He was preceded in death by his parents, Odin and Martha, and his sister, Betty Zolondek. Funeral services celebrating the life of James Avron were held at 11am on Saturday, April 21, 2018, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church of Thief Lake with Pastor Bob Dahlen officiating. Pat Hanson was the organist and special music was provided by Lois & Lois and Diane Johnson. All who were present at the funeral were honorary casket bearers, especially Gary Pearson, Chuck Chaplinski, Glenn Orpen, Charles Rice and Kyle Anola. Casket bearers were Chester Zolondek, Lowell Zolondek, Paul Zolondek, Jack Zolondek, Chip Avron, Mark Avron, Jeff Kezar and Scott Brown. Interment took place at Our Savior’s Church Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by the Middle River Legion Post 444. Arrangements with Collins Funeral Homes. An online guest book is available at www.collinsfunerals.com