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Eugene Sarja, a cherished resident of Swan River, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on December 22, 2024, at the age of 91.

Born Carl Eugene Sarja on January 12, 1933, in Cloquet, Minnesota, he was the beloved son of Carl and Ida Sarja. Eugene spent his formative years in Wawina and Swan River, ultimately graduating from Grand Rapids High School in 1950. Following graduation, he bravely served in the U.S. Army before returning to his roots, where he took over the family farm in Swan River – a cherished piece of heritage which has now has been in the family since 1903.

On July 13, 1957, Eugene joyfully married Mary Ann Kangas in Cloquet. The couple then moved to the Swan River area, where Eugene led a life marked by hard work and dedication. He excelled in various roles throughout his career, including logging, gravel hauling, operating a sawmill, and raising beef cattle. A skilled worker, he dedicated over 29 years to Blandin, retiring in the late 1990s to enjoy life at home.

Eugene was a devoted member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Warba, where he contributed selflessly by serving on the church council and sharing his voice in the church choir. His commitment to his community extended    beyond the church, as he served as the Sago Township supervisor for more than 40 years, earning respect and affection from those he served. A man of many talents,   Eugene found joy in playing the accordion, a gift he cherished throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann.

He is survived by his three daughters: Stephanie (Alex) Pochucha of Champlin, MN; Christine Sarja of Shakopee, MN, and Catherine Sarja of Shakopee, MN; one son, Kevin Sarja of Swan River, MN and special friend Deborah Filipiak. His legacy continues through his two grandchildren, Michelle (Jordan) Danielson and Michael Pochucha, as well as his great-grandson, Maverick. Eugene is   further survived by his dear sisters, Ingrid (Archie) Heikkila and Karen (Joseph) Aalto, sister-in-law Kathy Kangas; brother-in-law Larry Johnson; and numerous nieces & nephews who adored him.

Eugene Sarja lived a life filled with love, commitment, and community spirit. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church in Warba, MN followed by the 1:00 p.m. Funeral Service. Rev. Mark and Brenda Wagner will officiate. Burial will be at Sago Cemetery, Sago Township, MN.

Please keep Eugene's family in your thoughts and prayers.

Please click on link below to view Eugene's Memorial Folder

/fh_live/12200/12288/media/Eugene-s-Memorial-Folder.pdf