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Emil Kark Obituary
June 12, 1936 - May 21, 2025
LA CROSSE - Emil E. "Bud" Kark, 88, of La Crosse, passed away May 21, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Health Care-Sparta. He was born June 12, 1936, in Blue Earth, Minn., the son of Flora (Bowman) and Emil Kark.
Bud joined the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1970. He graduated from St. Olaf College with a business degree. Bud was the president and retired from the family business Kark Rendering Co., in Chatfield, Minn. He married LaVonne Pretasky in 1985.
Bud loved horses and was the state champion in wrestling at St. Olaf College. He enjoyed singing in the Giving Hearts Choir and was a member of the American Legion Post #284 in Holmen.
Bud is survived by his wife of 40 years, LaVonne; children, Laurie Jo (Greg Goossens), Kari, Greg, John; two grandchildren, Casey Jo and Haley. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Lori, Kelly (Troy), Mark (Kris), Paul (Jennifer), Andy (Maly); step-grandchildren, Mandi, Alea, Max, Sydney (Cory), Jack, Porter, Kody, Luke, Joey; and Bud's brother, Robert. He is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Lorene, Don, Art and Beverly.
No services will be held at this time.
Memorials can be made to: Coulee Region Giving Hearts Choir
P.O Box 443, Onalaska, WI 54650
or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4141 Mormon Coulee Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Emil Kark
3 Entries
John Hempstead
May 27, 2025
Luv! Bud and I joined the Giving Hearts Choir about the same time. His memory was enough better then that he said he remembered visiting our farm when his business serviced it. He was always the most upbeat person in the choir. Thanks for faithfully bringing him to spread his cheer!
Lorene Miller
May 25, 2025
Lavonne, my deepest sympathies. Bud was such a great man. Mel (and I) enjoyed knowing him. My prayers for God's peace for you and the entire family. Lorene Miller
Mirella Huss
May 24, 2025
My condolences to LaVonne and the whole family, for the loss of such a kind, happy person. May you all find peace in your hearts soon, and may Bud rest in peace!
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