John R. Oja

John R. Oja Lake Ozark, MO Age 68, passed away Thursday, January 31, 2008, at Lake Regional Health System, Osage Beach, MO. John was born on September 2, 1939, in Baraga, Michigan, a son of Rudolph and Helen (Karkanen) Oja. John graduated from High School in Okemos, Michigan in 1957 and served two years in the United States Army Reserves. He then graduated from Michigan State University in 1963 and from there worked in law enforcement for several years in Florida. John was united in marriage to Jeanette (Nadol) and to this union were born two children. In 1980 he and his family moved to Warrensburg, Missouri where he opened a Kentucky Fried Chicken Franchise. He had since owned and operated Kentucky Fried Restaurants including stores in Warrensburg, Sedalia and Clinton. Survivors include his wife, Jeanette of the home; one daughter, Lisa Oja of Warrensburg, MO; one son, John A. Oja and wife Lori Ann of Sedalia, MO; four grandchildren, Chance, Trustin, John Christian and Taileena Oja; his mother, Helen Winkel; two sisters, Margy Scott and Laurel Winkel; and one brother, Marc Winkel. John was preceded in death by his Dad, John Winkel. Memorial services will be held Thursday, February 7, 2008, 5:30 p.m. at the Calvary Episcopal Church in Sedalia, Missouri. The family will receive friends Thursday from 4:30-5:30, prior to services. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are under the direction of the Hedges-Scott Funeral Home, Osage Beach, Missouri.