Gordon R. Boatman

Gordon Boatman, 69, of Alsen, ND passed away Saturday, January 10, 2015 at his home in Alsen.
Gordon “Gordy” Ray Boatman was born February 9, 1945 to Nathan and Elizabeth “Betty” (Gurley) Boatman in Devils Lake, ND. Gordy grew up and worked on the family farm near Hampden. He attended Hampden Public School and graduated in 1964. Shortly thereafter he joined the Air Force serving in the Vietnam War. During his tour of duty he was a jet engine mechanic for B52 bombers and KC135 tankers. He was stationed at Minot, ND until being reassigned to Anderson Air Force Base on Guam. Gordy was Honorably Discharged on March 21, 1969 with the rank of Sargent.
Upon his return Gordy attended NDSU for a year. While living in Fargo he received his private pilot’s license. He was employed for Pan Am Construction when the ABM (Anti-Ballistic-Missile) sites were created during the cold war. Later his desire for driving trucks and semis became a reality, and he maintained this occupation for many years. Gordy resided in Alsen from 1987 to present time. In 1992 he began working for Mike and Terry Roppel in Alsen. He passionately loved farming and was capable of driving any implement and loved tinkering in the shop. He semi-retired in 2010 but loved it too much to totally give it up.
He was part of the Hampden American Legion Post #226 where he played taps for several years. He also was chaplain of Langdon American Legion Post #98. He was very involved with Veteran’s Day celebrations. Gordy was very honored to serve his country.
He enjoyed farming, playing guitar and harmonica, fishing and hunting, camping, horses and dogs. Most recently he was in a band named General Public who performed at many functions. Gordy had a great big smile for everyone. He had a fabulous sense of humor and was someone who would do anything for anyone.
Gordy attended Swiss Mennonite Church at Alsen and enjoyed bringing smiles while playing guitar for special music.
Gordy’s survivors include his children: Darlene (Tim) of Fargo and Monica (Paul) of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Emily (16) and Bryn (10) Donaldson, Elizabeth (13), Carter (7), and Sydney (5) Robinson; sisters: Mary Jane (David) Rose of Weaver, AL and Debbie (Mike) Roppel of Alsen, ND; brothers: Paul (Patsy) Boatman of Grand Forks, ND and Donn (Phoebe) Boatman of Florence, KY; and several nieces and nephews. Lastly Gordy leaves behind his best buddy, Digger, the Dachshund.
Preceding him in death were his father Nathan, mother Betty, and sister Shirley Ann.

Services will be held Monday, January 19, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at Swiss Mennonite Church in Alsen, ND.
Visitation will be held Sunday, January 18, 2015 from 2-4:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m. at Brooks Funeral Home of Langdon, ND. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to service time at the church on Monday.