David Koopman

DAVID EUGENE KOOPMAN went home to be with Jesus on July 5, 2022 in Maplewood, MN. He was 75. Dave was born Feb. 25, 1947 in Chester, SD to Al and Harriette (Peterson) Koopman of Ramona, SD.

He attended 2 country grade schools near Yankton, SD as well as grade schools and high school in St. Paul, graduating from Monroe High School in 1965.  Dave enlisted in the US Air Force in Feb. 1966 and was assigned to the 460th TRV-FMS (Tactical Reconnaissance Wing-Field Maintenance Squadron) at Tan Son Nhut Airbase in Saigon, Viet Nam. During his tour, he helped maintain the GEJ79 jet engines on RF-4C Phantom II Air Craft and analyzed engine oil in the S.O.A.P lab to predict engine wear.  He reached the rank of Sargent before his discharge in Dec.1969.

Dave married Jane Ellen Crum on January 11, 1969. They were married 53 years. After his military service, he became a clerk, letter carrier and mail handler for the USPS until his retirement. Dave enjoyed reading, computer work, operating his ham radio with the call letters WBOYDI, as well as archery and target practicing with his collection of guns. He was a highly valued and loved member of the Tan Son Nhut Association (tsna.org). Dave’s Viet Nam experiences are posted on the TSNA website and through his Facebook profile page.

Dave is survived by his wife Jane, children Kristen Williams, Mike (Mollie) Koopman, and James Koopman, three grandchildren: Michala Williams, Alex and Katie Koopman; his sister Connie (Charles) Pettersen; nieces Karin (Grant) Jordahl and Katie Pettersen and two great nieces Autumn and Violet Jordahl. He was preceded in death by his parents.

“I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Jesus Christ, is calling us.” Philippians 3:14

RIP Airman Koopman and welcome home.