Arthur Popkes, 73, George, Iowa, also of Lake Benton, died Monday, Feb. 3, 2003, at Tyler Health Care Center in Tyler.
Services were Friday, Feb. 7, at Bethel Reformed Church in rural Ellsworth. The Rev. Dan Haggar officiated. Burial was in Evergreen Lawn Cemetery, George.
Arthur "Art" Popkes was born to Popke "P.L." and Anna (Huisman) Popkes on July 24, 1929, in Ellsworth. He attended rural school and high school in George.
He married Betty Jean Jansen on Aug. 3, 1950, at Bethel Reformed Church near Ellsworth. After their marriage they farmed near Magnolia for six years. Then they lived in Sioux Falls, S.D., for two years and in Worthington for a year. In 1960 they moved back to George and farmed there until they retired in 1985. In 1976 they bought land on the lake at Lake Benton, developed Benton Shores Estates and sold residential lots. After their retirement they spent most of their time at their home at Lake Benton.
Mr. Popkes was a lifelong member of Bethel Reformed Church near Ellsworth. His hobbies included woodworking and making furniture for his friends and family.
Survivors include his wife, Betty Popkes, George; one son, Gene (Margie) Popkes, Mission, S.D.; four grandchildren, Laura (Paul) Winckler, Lake City, S.D., Toni (Jason) Praus, Gillette, Wyo., Eric (Kate) Popkes, Larchwood, Iowa, and Jack Popkes, Wright, Wyo.; two great-grandchildren, Benjamin Winckler and Garret Popkes; one sister, Patricia Eeten, Pipestone; and four nieces and nephews.
Mr. Popkes was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Dale, on June 2, 1985.
Roste Funeral Home, Rock Rapids, Iowa, was in charge of arrangements.
