Ralph Pewaush “Zaagajiw”, age 86, a resident of Webster passed away on January 12, 2021.

Ralph was born in Cloquet, Minnesota on November 8, 1934 to Jack and Eliza Pewaush.

Ralph married the love of his life Delores Bearheart on July 20, 1954.

Ralph spent his life teaching Ojibwe at the LCO College, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and the St. Croix Tribal Center. He also served as a ceremonial drum keeper. In his free time, he enjoyed being outdoors hunting, fishing, feeding the birds and squirrels and harvesting medicine.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Eliza; daughters, Diana Pewaush and Mona Martin; infant grandson, Jason; grandsons, Anthony Jr, and Nathan; brothers, Donald Pewaush, Sr., Melvin Pewaush, Emery Pewaush, Charlie Pewaush; sisters, Laura Ann Bullchild and Virginia Bullchild; and uncle, Clifford.

He is survived by his wife, Delores; children, Tony (Crystle Bosin) Pewaush, Lorne (Laurel Sutton) Pewaush, Jackie (David) Shabaiash and Curtis Pewaush; grandchildren, Davien, Diana, Samual, Autumn, Tina, Melvin, Jessica, Nicole, Katelyn, Tyler, Cody, Lisa, Brian, and Derek Lee; along with many great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at the St. Croix Tribal Center in Hertel with Lee Staples officiating. Interment will follow at the Gaslyn Cemetery in Rusk Township, Wisconsin. Pallbearers will be Sheldon Schwensen, Brian Bearheart, Don Pewaush, Jr., Brian Burton, Kenneth Smith, and Brian Nickence. Honorary pallbearers are Timothy Hart, David Shabaiash, Sam Bearheart, Jr. and Davien Shabaiash. In honor of Ralph’s military service, honors will also be rendered at the cemetery.

Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster.

Last Update: Jan 17, 2021 4:33 pm CST