JOHN P. PAVKOVICH

John P. Pavkovich, 57, of Washburn, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012 at his home.

He was born Nov. 20, 1954 in Duluth, the son of Anthony and Maria (Onorato) Pavkovich.

John graduated from Morgan Park High School in Duluth, in 1973 and later graduated from Mankato State University in 1977. He worked as an intern at the Environmental Learning Center in Isabella, Minn., and as a naturalist for Three Rivers Park District in the Twin Cities before beginning his career with the National Park Service. He worked for the National Park Service in several locations including; the Apostle Island in Bayfield, North Cascades National Park in Washington State, Yellowstone National Park, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway in Trego, Wis., Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Grand Marais, Mich., and again at the Apostle Islands in Bayfield before retiring in 2010.

He married Rachel Floran on Oct. 24, 1987 in Bennett, Wis. John enjoyed bird hunting, remodeling their home, gardening, cross country skiing, spending time outdoors and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Rachel Floran of Washburn; two sons, Anthony Pavkovich, Washburn and Joseph Pavkovich, Washburn; three siblings, Steve (Jane) Pavkovich, St. Cloud, Minn., Tonci (Bruce Romanish) Pavkovich, Vancouver, Wash., and Vince (Faith) Pavkovich, Big Lake, Minn.; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his twin brother, Joe.

MEMORIAL MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, 2012 in the St. Louis Catholic Church in Washburn with Fr. Kevin Gordon officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Friday in the church. The Bratley Funeral Home in Washburn is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established.

To view this obituary online, sign the guestbook or express online condolences, visit us at www.bratleyfamilyfuneralhomes.com

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