Donald Kamphenkel

Don was born December 6, 1925, on the family farm south of Long Prairie, to Frederick and Anna (Martens) Kamphenkel. He was baptized and confirmed at Evangelical and Reformed Church in Round Prairie Township. Don attended kindergarten through eighth grade at Country School District 124. After graduating from Long Prairie High School in 1943, Don farmed with his parents until he entered the United States Army in 1950.

While he was in the service, he married Patricia J. Ricketts on May 12, 1951, at the Methodist church in Long Prairie. Don was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant in 1952. He worked at Hart Press/Banta Corporation for 36 years until his retirement. Don was very active in the American Legion Post 12, serving as gambling manager 15 years and enjoying being an active member long after stepping down. He served on the Evergreen Cemetery Board of Directors for 45 years, 27 of which as president. He also served many years on the church board of the Zion United Church of Christ in Long Prairie.

Don was an avid bowler and fisherman. He enjoyed playing dominoes and card games, wood-working, horseshoes, and visiting with family and friends.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Patricia; children: James (Robin) Kamphenkel of Sauk Centre, Donna (John) Alvarez of Mandan, ND; grandchildren: Wade (Jacque) Alvarez, Casie (Chris) Aufenthie, Jaime Kamphenkel, Briana Kamphenkel, Brady Kamphenkel; great grandchildren: Thomas Alvarez, Faith Alvarez, Piper Aufenthie, Elayna Kamphenkel, Taryn Kamphenkel; a grandchild by marriage: Taylor (Gretchen) Lambrecht and their daughter, Finola; niece Karen (Marty) Jenkins and nephew Allen (Cheryl) Rosenow.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Ralph, twin sister Dorothy Rosenow, and nephew Bruce Rosenow.

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