Donald E. Lammers

Donald E. Lammers, 87, died on January 9, 2013, at Villa Maria in Fargo, ND. Donald was born at home on October 20, 1925, to John and Anna Hoppe Lammers near Sabin, MN.

Donald grew up on the family farm near Sabin where he enjoyed working and helping with the daily chores. Donald’s father passed away when he was 20, at which time he became more involved in the family farm while his older brothers were serving in the military.

On November 12, 1949, he married the love of his life, Barbara Jean Gess, whom he celebrated 63 years of marriage with last November. They made their home in Moorhead, MN until they moved to Fargo in 1959 when Donald started his career in the Community Health Department for the City of Fargo. Donald retired in 1990 after dedicating 40 years to Community and Health Services both for the City of Moorhead and Fargo. Donald and Barbara had 2 sons, 3 daughters and a niece who he considered his own, and Donald was the only father she knew. Donald had six grandchildren.

Donald enjoyed playing baseball and fast-pitch softball in his younger years in Sabin and coaching his son’s team in his later years along with many years of being part of a bowling team. Some of his other favorite past-times were spending time at their lake home playing cards and dominos. Donald also enjoyed playing and listening to music. He particularly enjoyed listening to his sons’ band for many years.

Donald fell in December and was in rehab at the Villa Maria. He had passed his final tests on January 9, and was going to be released to go home but God had a different plan….he called him to his heavenly home. Donald was one of the most compassionate, caring and kindest men. He always had a twinkle in his eye, a heartwarming smile and a funny joke or story to tell. His children niece and grand children were his greatest accomplishments.

Donald is survived by his wife Barbara, sons, Donald Keith Lammers, Fargo, ND; Doug Coty Lammers, Glyndon, MN; daughters, LaVonne Tim Tuck, New Kent, VA; Kim Robert Nerby, Moorhead, MN; Denice Barry Johnson, Zimmerman, MN; Teresa Mark Buth, Fargo, ND; his six grandchildren; Matthew Tuck, Steven Nerby, Bryan Lammers, Logan and Bailey Johnson and Bryton Buth; sister Lorraine Edwards; and sister-in-law, Grace Lammers.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Lorentein Pake, and brothers Clarence and Leonard Lammers.

Visitation: Friday, January 11, 2013, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., in Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN, with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral: Saturday, January 12, 2013, at 1:00 p.m., in Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 613 16th Street South, Fargo, ND.

Interment: Elmwood Cemetery, rural Sabin, MN.