Donald Poppen
April 23, 1929 ~ June 4, 2012
Donald Leo Poppen, 83, of Fargo, ND died on Monday June 4th, at the VA Hospital under the care of Hospice and surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Don was born on April 23, 1929 in Hankinson, ND, to Anna and John Poppen. He was the youngest of 3 children. He grew up in Dwight, ND, and then moved to Wahpeton, ND. Don attended school in Wahpeton.
Don entered the Navy in 1946 and served 6 years before being honorably discharged.
Don met Arlene Matheson in 1953 and they married on June 18, 1954. The couple moved to Fargo and made their home there ever since. He repaired typewriters at Gaffney’s for several years, as well as bartending at the Nestor and Bismarck Tavern in Fargo.
He was an avid reader of Westerns and Crime Stories. He also enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Don and his family went on many vacations together and Don loved to take Arlene shopping, and waited patiently for her.
Don is survived by his wife, Arlene; children: Richard Poppen of Nevada, Debbie (Bruce) Reiter of West Fargo, Kevin (Barb) Poppen of Moorhead, Bob (Sandy) Poppen of West Fargo, Kathy (Jerray) Lang of West Fargo; 7 grandchildren: Amy (Donny) Journey, Kasey, Kayla, and Breanna Lang, Priscilla Poppen, Ryan and Candace Poppen; 2 great grandchildren: Miranda Journey, and Noah Lang; as well as several other relatives.
Preceded in death by his parents, one brother Harold, and one sister Wilma.
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Thoughts and prayers to the entire family. Praying you find peace in your loss and knowing Don is now at peace as well.
With Sympathy,
Wendell and Jean Loe and family
princeton minnesoatdear Babe and Family Just a note to send my symphathy at Dons passing. It seems you have had several difficult days of late. I remember Don and his quiet manner and we little girls knew how handsome he was. What lovely memories you all must have of him. Love to you all Saundra
out thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. take comfort in the memories of better times.
Sandy Lake MBSo sorry to read of Don’s passing. I remember working with him at the Nestor. I learned a great deal about dealing with people from him. He was always professional while being fun a very unique combination.