DONALD JAMES ARFSTEN

Donald James Arfsten peacefully passed away on July 7, 2023, at the age of 85.

He was born in Hugo, Colo. on January 7, 1938. He grew up in Limon, Colo. Don was the second of five children to Clifford and Jeanette Arfsten. He attended Limon High School and was very proud to be a Badger. His father managed the Shamrock truck stop on old I-70 going through Limon. Don spent time as a teen working at the truck stop.

Don excelled in sports and earned an athletic and scholastic scholarship to Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colo. It was there that he met Margaret Ann Weigel, who he later married. Don and Margaret went on to attend college in Greeley where they both received degrees in Education.

They moved to Longmont in 1960 where their son, Greg Alan was born on July 21, 1961, followed by their daughter Michelle Aleen, December 16, 1966. In Longmont, Don taught physical education and coached at several schools in the St. Vrain Valley School District and during that time he earned his Master's degree in Education.

Most of his career was spent at Longs Peak Junior High where, under his leadership, he led the Rams in many successful seasons. Don loved coaching! He retired after 35 years as an educator. He had so many good memories of the students, athletes and staff.

After retiring in 1993, Don went from being known as “coach” to being known as “Papa”. He was equally successful in both roles! He took great pride in his grandchildren and loved to spend time with them. He wrote each of them a song and built each one a unique play table.

Don enjoyed traveling and family gatherings. Margaret and he were blessed with many friends, and Don loved to spend time with them golfing, going to local high school games and out to breakfast. He loved playing cards and games with (and usually beating) his friends and family. Don volunteered at the food bank and as a communion minister at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, where he and Margaret attended for many years.

Don and Margaret spent their retired years as “snowbirds,” traveling between their homes in Longmont, Colo. and Chandler, Ariz. Don was committed to attending family reunions, birthdays, weddings, graduations, sporting events, plays, recitals and many trips!

Don is preceded in death by Margaret, his wife of 63 years. Survivors include their son Dr. Greg (Lori) Arfsten of Littleton, Colo. and their daughter, Michelle (Brad) Tatman of Gilbert, Ariz.

Margaret and Don have five grandchildren, Jennifer Arfsten, 29; Sean Arfsten, 26; Samuel Arfsten, 23; Shane Tatman, 19; and Megan Tatman, 12. Godchildren include Bob Angelo, 38; Brennan Ramos, 31; Dominic Mills, 31; Bob Debus, 62; and God family, Bonnie and Louie Ramos.

Don was preceded in death by his brother Dale and has three surviving siblings, Dennis (Ilene) Arfsten, Judy Halford and June White. Don’s in-laws include Norma (George) Debus, Pete (Myrna) Weigel, Joyce Lamb and Sandy (Don) Selchert. Don had many nieces and nephews and each one held a unique and special place in his heart.

Don was a devoted husband for almost 64 years! He was a very loving and supportive father, who always showed patience and strength. He deeply loved his family and friends and was a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. He is remembered lovingly by all.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.

A joint celebration of life for Don and Margaret Arfsten will be held at: Howe Mortuary, 439 Coffman St., Longmont, CO 80501 on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2023, at 2 p.m.

To leave condolences for the family, please visit Howe Mortuary at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/

Memorial donations may be made to Colorado Youth Sports Foundation at: https://coloradoyouthsportsfoundation.com/