Rodney L. Poppema

    Rodney L. Poppema, age 82, of Worthington, died Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Luverne. Rodney was born on July 28, 1943 in Ashton, IA to William and Nettie (Westerman) Poppema.

    Rodney married Sandy Briggs at Good Sheppard Lutheran Church in Lake Wilson, MN, on October 1, 1966. Together they had three children: Tim, Todd, and Tricia. Rodney served in the army for two years active duty from 1963-1965, followed by the reserves from 1966-1968. Rodney began his career in 1969 of route sales and marketing. He worked with Oak Grove Dairy, Worthmore Ice Cream, Jimbo’s Frozen Foods, and in 2009 he retired from Deli Express. Along the way he earned many awards for top sales. Rodney enjoyed retirement while doing what he loved. He spent his time camping, going for walks, and caring for his pets, especially Buddy, his last dog.

    Rodney is survived by his wife, Sandy Poppema, Worthington; three children, Tim (Jane) Poppema, Lake Crystal; Todd (Darcy) Poppema, Worthington; and Tricia Mulcahy, Menlo Park, CA; nine grandchildren, Dustin Poppema, Brandon, SD; Rachel (Lukas) Riewe, Janesville, MN; Amanda (Cody) Reese, Worthington, MN; Matthew (Alysia) Poppema, Aurora, CO; Courtney (Tom Koeppl) Poppema, Shakopee, MN; Colton Poppema, Denver, CO; Aiden Mulcahy, Menlo Park, CA; Emma Mulcahy, Menlo Park, CA; and Ahna Mulcahy, Menlo Park, CA; and eleven great-grandchildren, Carter, Declan, and Daxton Poppema; Teddy and Claire Riewe; Sawyer Laikyn, Bryer, and Raya Reese; and Wrenley and Graham Poppema.

    Rodney is preceeded in death by his parents; brother, John Poppema; and sister, Henrietta DenHartog.

    In his final years, he found comfort and companionship while living among fellow veterans at the Luverne Veteran’s Home. He was deeply grateful for the exceptional care he received there, often expressing his appreciation for the kindness and dedication from the staff. He enjoyed passing the time playing bingo, coloring, and visiting with both caregivers and fellow veterans, forming meaningful connections that brought him joy and a sense of community.

A private family service will take place at a later date with the Dingmann Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Worthington.