Donald Kostka

Donald E. Kostka died on October 17, 2015, at his home in Fargo, ND, surrounded by family. He was born on August 11, 1921, in Blomkest, MN, to Mathilda and Charles Kostka. Donald married Dagney Larsen on October 9, 1945. They enjoyed 70 wonderful years together and raised five children, Donna, Gail, Greg, Byron, and Del. Donald served his country in the Army and was in the Battle of Attu Island in the Aleutians during WWII. Donald was an agent for Western Fruit Express and retired in 1981.

Don was a hard-working man of integrity and honor. He was devoted to his family and never let them down. No matter what the need or the situation, his family could always count on him to set things right

Don looked for the positive in people and in situations. His wise assessment often was "It could be worse". He taught others that looking at the positive side of every situation made life more enjoyable.

By Don's example, his children all found their way in the world. Because of his love, they could always find their way home and that is something they did often. Don was a man of few words but he had a way of letting people know how much he enjoyed their visits. Visits often included card games, and it seems Don nearly always won. He loved and looked forward to those card games, especially if there were a few coins at stake. He'd sing a little song as a precursor to showing us his winning cards; and he laughed when other's luck was bad or when they carelessly played the wrong card.

Don's sense of humor was legendary to all who knew him. He never told off-color stories or belittled anyone to get a laugh. We all loved to see him laugh too, sometimes to the point that tears ran down his face.

Don loved nature. He liked maintaining the yard and trimming the dozens of trees he planted at his lake cabin. He enjoyed spending time on the lake and fishing. He loved the many dogs in his life and in later years he enjoyed feeding a wild rabbit that visited the courtyard at the condo.

Don was a loyal friend to the men who served with him in the Army and to neighbors at the lake home. If help was needed, people knew Don could be depended upon to do whatever he could to help. His strong influence and love will continue to provide strength to his wife, his children, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Don is survived by his wife; children; five grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; sisters, Lillian, Dorothy, Gladys, and Edith; and brother Leroy.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Lottie; and brothers, Harold and Thomas.

Donald worked hard to provide for his family of whom he was very proud. His steady devotion to his wife and children will always be remembered. With love and respect, the family said goodbye at a private service on Saturday, October 24, 2015, at Korsmo Funeral Chapel, Moorhead, MN.

(Korsmo Funeral Service, Moorhead, MN)