To view the livestream of the Mass of Christian Burial, please go to: https://www.sacredheartegf.net/live

Darral Joseph Altepeter, 77, of East Grand Forks, MN, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with cancer on November 13, 2023.

Darral was born on May 11, 1946, in Crookston, MN, the third oldest of seven children to Ambrose and Grace (Vary) Altepeter. He graduated from the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston. Later, he married Lorraine (Volk) in 1972, and together they raised five children east of East Grand Forks.

He started selling land through his own company before deciding that he belonged in the fields that he sold. Farming would be the only profession that brought him pure joy. Walking in the door for dinner, wearing an August day's worth of sweat, dirt, and a farmer's tan, his children grew up understanding the value of hard work. He continued to farm until he physically could not.

Darral was passionate about military history, he was loyal to John Deere tractors and Chevy pickups, and he unconditionally cheered for the Vikings. But above all, he cared deeply about his family, especially his grandchildren.

He loved visiting. He loved connecting with people and listening to their stories—and he loved telling his own story. Despite his failing health, his long-term memory was remarkable, his humor was sharp, his Catholic faith was strong, and he never turned down something sweet.

Darral's family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the many caregivers, especially to Dr. Kwon at the Mayo Clinic. Their unwavering care and compassion will never be forgotten.

Darral was preceded in death by his parents, Ambrose, and Grace Altepeter.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lorraine; his five children, Daniel (Ashley); Kristina (Jacob Thelen); John (Paula); Andrew (Andrea); and Steven—all residing in the EGF area. He continues to be loved on this earth by nine grandchildren: Sydney, Taylor, Ashtyn, Max, Jordan, Caleb, Grace, Hayes, and Lorraine. He is also survived by his siblings: Gloria Altepeter, Alan Altepeter, Gary Altepeter, Sandy Nisbet, Roger Altepeter, and Lori Monteith.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 18, 2023, in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, East Grand Forks, MN.
Visitation: 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, November 17, 2023, with a 6:30 p.m. prayer service in the Historic Norman Funeral Home Chapel.  Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the liturgy in the church on Saturday.
Burial: Resurrection Cemetery, East Grand Forks, MN.