Sulo Ojakangas

Sulo J Ojakangas, 98, passed away in Duluth, on July 20, 2013. Mr. Ojakangas was born in Gilbert, Minn. He was educated in local schools and proceeded to obtain Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees from the University of Minnesota. He taught vocational agriculture and adult farm management in schools at Embarrass, Toivola, Cotton and Cherry. He was an instructor at Hibbing High School for 24 years and an assistant director at Hibbing Technical Institute for 10 years. Mr. Ojakangas managed the St. Louis County Fair for 32 years, during which time he also served as a member of the Board of Managers for the Minnesota State Fair. He served as President of the Board of Managers for two years. Future Farmers of America presented him with its highest honorary award in 1988. Mr. Ojakangas served as a member, officer, and director of the Hibbing Junior Chamber of Commerce, Hibbing Curling Club, Minnesota Historical Society, Range Kiwanis Club and First Presbyterian Church of Hibbing. He was an active member of Mesaba Country Club, Hibbing Elks Club and Hibbing Chamber of Commerce. The second youngest of six children of Eric and Mary Ojakangas, he married Irma Ojakangas in 1941. Irma and Sulo recently celebrated their 72nd anniversary. In addition to Irma, Sulo is survived by two daughters, Sheryl and Marilyn. Sulo has two surviving grandchildren, Kaiya and Gerri; four surviving great-grandchildren, and 10 surviving nieces and nephews. Sulo will be remembered as a devoted family man, dedicated educator, agricultural scholar and innovator, community leader and friend to all with whom he was in contact. He was a kind and gentle man with a distinct sense of humor. He was proud of his Finnish heritage. PRIVATE SERVICE: will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Minnesota State Fair Foundation, 1265 Snelling Ave. North, St. Paul, MN 55108 or First Presbyterian Church, 2201 Second Ave. East, Hibbing, MN 55746.