Donald Godfrey

DONALD R. GODFREY July 31, 1953 - October 15, 2015 Donald R. Godfrey, age 62, of Ponsford, MN formerly of Fallbrook, CA, was unexpectedly called home to be with his Heavenly Father on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at his home with his mother at his side. Don was born on July 31, 1953 in Oskaloosa, Iowa to Everett and Virginia (Jellum) Godfrey. At the age of 6, Don moved with his family to California where he lived through his boyhood years. Later his family returned to Iowa where Don graduated from the Roosevelt High School in Des Moines with the Class of 1971. Don entered the United States Army in January of 1972. He served four years of active duty both in and out of country and then spent another 9 1/2 years in the Army reserves, retiring with numerous commendations. Don was very gifted mechanically and was an excellent and exceptional welder. Therefore, he used those talents throughout his life working in maintenance. He invested over 25 years of his working career employed by his older brother, Tony, in his nursery business, The Olive Hill Greenhouses located in Fallbrook, CA where Don worked as the maintenance supervisor. In 2002, Don moved to the family homestead near Ponsford, MN where he enjoyed the outdoor beauty of Northern MN. Don then gained employment with the J&B Grocery Store and later St. Joseph's Hospital both in Park Rapids until his retirement. Don loved the outdoors and especially enjoyed observing nature. He enjoyed working with his hands creating woodworking projects of all kinds. He was very active and faithful in the leadership of Gethsemane Lutheran Church where he had served as the Congregation President and was currently serving as head elder. Don had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews who he loved dearly. During the years of his retirement, Don devoted himself to looking after his mother and stepdad, Virginia and Jeff Swenson who lived nearby and was very helpful to his mom following Jeff's death on August 30th. Don will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Virginia Swenson of Ponsford; his two brothers: Tony (Sue) Godfrey of Fallbrook, CA and Bob (Brenda) Godfrey of Crest Hill, IL; his three precious nieces and one nephew and a special friend, Myra and her children; as well as other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Everett in 1973; his sister, Virginia Kay who died at birth and his step father, Jeff Swenson. Funeral services will be held 11 AM Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at the Gethsemane Lutheran Church of Snellman, MN with Pastor Scott Muehlberg officiating. The organist will be Helen Laine. Casket bearers will be friends: Lorenz Sunram, Carl Sunram, Jon Swenson, Daniel Breitbach, Wes Hall and Corman Larson. Interment will be held at the State Veterans Cemetery at Ft. Ripley, MN. The Star Of The North Marine Corps League will provide full military honors. Visitation will be held beginning at 10 AM at the church on Wednesday. Following the funeral service, the Gethsemane Lutheran Church will host a lunch for all. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. To leave on line condolences or to view the video tribute please visit www.jonespearson.com