Byron E. Bjorge Jr., age 49, of Mahnomen, MN, died Wednesday, March 7, 2018.

Byron (JR) Bjorge, the son of Byron and Rita (LaVoy) Bjorge, was born on September 11, 1968, in Mahnomen. As a young boy, he attended Mahnomen Public School. After graduating with the Class of 1987, he attended Pipestone Meat Cutting School in Pipestone, MN. JR worked in Warroad as a meat cutter, before returning to Mahnomen and working at the Shooting Star Casino. Over the years, he held various positions at the casino, starting out as a Bartender, followed by Buffet Supervisor and Black Jack Dealer. JR had battled with health issues for several years, but always kept a positive attitude.

JR loved fishing and spent weeks at a time in the fish house. He also enjoyed playing Keno and spending time with his family, especially his Mom, Rita, who he loved very much. JR was a generous guy with a big heart and contagious smile. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

JR is survived by his mother, Rita Bjorge of Mahnomen, MN; three brothers: Bob (Jackie) Bjorge of Mahnomen, MN, Roy Bjorge of Roy Lake, MN, and Larry Nattress of Wisconsin Dells, WI; two sisters: Ruth (Tom) McArthur of Naytahwaush, MN, and Brenda Hanson of Mahnomen, MN; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Byron; and other extended family.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will be held in First Lutheran Cemetery, Mahnomen.