Preston John (Shabaiash) Lassman Sr.

Preston John Lassman, Sr. age 59 of Cass Lake walked onto the Spirit World on August 28, 2025. He was born in Duluth on June 7, 1966 and adopted by parents, Lonnie and Carolyn (Stottlemeyer) Lassman.

A man deeply rooted in his traditions; Preston cherished his Native ceremonies and found healing and strength in the sweat lodge. He carried those teachings into his work as a youth chemical dependency counselor for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, where he guided and supported young people with patience, compassion, and honesty. His ability to listen and his steady encouragement made a lasting impact on all who turned to him.

Before his call to help others, Preston spent many years working with his hands as a mechanic. He was fiercely proud of his Ford trucks, often seen under the hood or on the road, with a grin that said he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Above all, Preston loved his family. The later years of his life were highlighted by receiving custody of two of his grandchildren, Jayden and Matthew Hvezeda.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie & Carolyn; biological mother, Donna Gilmore; and brother, Tony Shabaiash.

Survived by his children, Devon, Samantha, Tamera, Preston Jr., and Tyler; several grandchildren; and numerous family and friends.

Wake Service will be held in the Sawyer Community Center, 3243 W Moorhead Rd, Big Lake, MN 55780 over Labor Day weekend.