Donovan Noetzelman, 71

Donovan Edward Noetzelman, 71, Alexandria, died Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at his home.

Donovan was born April 10, 1937 to Edward and Alpha (Brockopp) Noetzelman in Effington Township, Otter Tail County. He grew up in Otter Tail and Douglas counties and attended school in Miltona. He graduated from Central High School in Alexandria in 1955.

Following his education, he served in the U.S. Army in Germany from 1955-1958. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Alexandria where he worked in sales with John Deere equipment. He became a licensed insurance agent and worked with Lincoln National Life. He worked with National Farmers Union for most of his career and retired early in 2003, when he began to experience significant health concerns.

Donovan was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where he served as an elder for many years. He taught confirmation and Sunday school at Good Shepherd, as well as at other churches. He was a member of the Eagle’s Club and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Posse. He was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous where he mentored new members and was proud of celebrating 26 years of sobriety. He spent many years coaching, playing and umpiring softball and was an avid Twins fan. He enjoyed deer hunting with his family, writing, playing cards with his buddies and finding bargains. Don loved spending time with his family and was very proud of his grandchildren.

He is survived by a daughter, Dawn (Greg) Kortuem of Waconia; two sons, Todd Noetzelman of San Francisco and Lane (Jackie) Noetzelman of Alexandria; two brothers, Warren (Karen) Noetzelman of Alma, Arkansas and Del (Penny) Noetzelman of Sartell; and eight grandchildren, Jordan, Charlie, Kensey, Tommy, Ben, Allie, Eric and Joey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Dwaine; brother, Roger; sister, Geraldine; and nephew, Trevor.

Funeral services were held January 12 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Alexandria with the Rev. Wade Meyer officiating. Music was provided by organist, Sue Nelson. Burial was at Parkers Prairie Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers were his grandchildren.

Arrangements were with Lind Family Funeral Service with chapels in Miltona and Parkers Prairie; www.lindfamilyfuneralservice.com.

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