Gary Kopperdahl Jr.

Gary Kopperdahl Jr. was called home by Creator unexpectedly on April 18, 2024, in Billings.

Gary was born on June 8, 1959, to Janet Rose Feathers and Gary Kopperdahl Sr. in Wolf Point. He was a proud member of the Spirit Lake Sioux tribe in North Dakota. He grew up in Fargo, North Dakota, and attended West Fargo High School until he transferred to Box Elder Job Corps, where he earned a certification in culinary arts. He loved to cook and passed this down to his children and grandchildren, as meals were a focal point in family gatherings.

Not long after finishing Job Corps, he met Debra Willis and, shortly after marriage, welcomed two children, Jennifer and Cory. Unfortunately, they parted ways in 1984 and he later met Gwen Connell and they had two children together, Jessi and Gary III “Buddy.” Gwen and Gary separated in 2001.

Gary started work for Food Services of America (US Foods) at this time, where he worked the docks for over 30 years. Here, he became a members of the Teamsters Union. He had such a strong work ethic and never missed much work until his sudden retirement in 2022.

Gary grew up with a passion for hockey (his team was the UND Fighting Sioux). He also had a passion for old-school muscle cars, and grew up racing cars with his family. He loved music, NASCAR, visiting his grandkids and daughter Jessi in Missoula (where she attended UM) to go to the Griz football games with his family. He loved classic rock music and purchased his son Gary “Buddy” his first electric guitar at 11, which led to a life of music that they shared together over the years.

He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, something he took great pride in. His grandkids are Alycia, Izaiah, Breanna, Hailey and his newborn granddaughter Anastasia. His great-grandchildren are Josiah and Kaylani.

Gary is survived by Jenni Brockel (Andrew), Breanna, Hailey, Jessi Kopperdahl (Nick), Alycia, Izaiah, Anastasia, Gary “Buddy” Kopperdahl III, Carol Pohlman (Rick), Marshall Pohlman, Shawn Baumgarten, Dale Kopperdahl, Felicia Kopperdahl, Jerrica Kopperdahl, Ronald Kopperdahl, Jamie Lindburg, David Kopperdahl, Gary Kopperdahl Sr., Shane Hurley, Cody White, Jonni White; and his friends and coworkers at US Foods.

He was preceded in death by his mom, Janet Rose Feathers; his brother, Wayne Kopperdahl; and his old best friend, Bob Ballard.

Memorial services to be announced at a later date for Billings, Montana, and Fargo, North Dakota.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local animal shelter or humane society.

Gary was generous to a fault, even when he had nothing left to give. He always found a way. He was selfless until the end of his illness and always cared about everyone. He always donated to charities on his birthday. His big heart and old school humor will be terribly missed. We love you, Dad.

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