Obituary of Donald Soodsma

Donald Eugene Soodsma was born December 26, 1929 to Corneal and Anna (Ruigh) Soodsma at Praire View, Kansas. He was the fourth of five children. Don began school in 1935 at the age of 5 1/2. Don said he thought it was a place to sleep and wondered why he had to go back the next year. He finished 8th grade but did not go to high school. Don said he knew as much as his teachers and has been waiting for them to catch up so he could go back. He completed his GED in March 1989. Don entered the army in September 1951. He took his basic training at Camp Chaffee Ark. He was sent to cook school but did very little cooking while enlisted. He served our country in Korea and was on the first ship to dock in Seattle after the truce was signed. Don worked at the Kansas State Hospital in Norton for 33 years. He said he worked 7 years in the dietary department and did everything except cook. The remaining 26 years were spent in maintenance and grounds keeping. Don married Sarah (Allmer) on January 13, 1984 in Kansas. They shared over 20 years together before she passed away. Don and Sarah moved to Rocky Ford, Colorado for 9 years and then to Limon, Colorado where they remained. Don worked at various different jobs in Rocky Ford and Limon. Don will be remembered for his big smile and always positive attitude. He will also be remembered for his love of walking, no place was too far to walk for him. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sarah, three sisters and one brother. Don is survived by three stepchildren, Kenneth and wife Sandy Sample, Grace and husband Ben Johnson and Mary Alice and husband Harold Croissant. Also by 2 nieces, 1 nephew, numerous cousins and “grandkids” May his untiring spirit go with us to carry on his memory he went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 8, 2013.