Donald L. Tapp of Colstrip passed away on May 12, 2015 at his temporary home at Lakeview Assisted Living in Colstrip where he was cared for by a very special group of ladies. Don was born on October 2, 1927, in Jennings, Kansas to Arthur and Alma Tapp. He spent his early years growing up on his grandparents’ farm. He met and married Eileen Kirwin in Chicago’ they celebrated 60 years of marriage prior to her death on February 28, 2009.
Don spent most of career working with electronics and instrumentation. He enjoyed building and flying radio controlled air craft. He also enjoyed gardening, camping, and working with audio/video computer equipment.
He and Eileen lived in Chicago, Denver, Billings, and made their home in Colstrip beginning in 1983. They had 3 children, Donna, Tom, Steve (Diane), 7 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.
Don was a member of Colorado Arapahoe County Sheriffs Posse, a member of United Community Church and serving on the session and as church treasurer for many years. He was active in the Colstrip Senior Citizens (past president) and served on several committees in the Colstrip Community. His faith guided him in all he did. He was a faithful servant and we know that he is resting in his heavenly home.
In 2009 he met his dear friend Dixie Cozzens and they shared their lives for the past 6 years. Their time together was a special gift, and it showed as they spent their time out and about in the Colstrip/Forsyth areas, and enjoyed many short trips together.
Don was preceded in death by his wife Eileen and his grandson Daniel. He is survived by his children Donna, Tom, and Steve (Diana); his brother Larry (Sharon) Shorey; dear friend Dixie Cozzens and her children Mike (Tammy) Cozzens, Macque (Mike) Bohleen, Mark (Bobbie) Cozzens and their families who were very special to him.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at United Community Church, 408 Water Avenue, on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. There will be a luncheon served following the service. Memorials may be sent to the United Community Church of Colstrip or the charity of your choice.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these arrangements and condolence may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Debbie says
Dixie & to all of Don’s loved ones. You have my deepest sympathy.
DEATH leaves a heartache no one can heal
LOVE leaves a memory no one can steal
author unknown
pat & george riedel says
Dixie and Don’s family:
so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. He was so fun to chat with at the store and he will be missed.
TJ Cape says
Dixie, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers are with you.
Bill Denice Hedges says
Dixie and Don’s family: So very sorry to hear of don’s passing. I did not know him well, but could see he brought a smile to your face! May God wrap his arms around you and guide you through the coming days without Don. Hugs, love and prayers from us to you.
Connie Brown says
Dixie and Don’s Family,
I am sorry for your loss: we all look for the good days and not the sad ones. It is hard to lose those we love even knowing they are Christians and now in God’s hands. I pray for strength for each one of you in the days ahead. Our own faith and memories are what keeps us strong! My prayers are with you.
Lu Shomate says
Dixie & Don’s Family – I am saddened to hear this news. We are thinking of you and sending thoughts, prayers, and love your way. God be with you….Lu & Dave
Lloyd & Norma says
DIXIE & DONS FAMILY__ WE ARE SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. WE WILL KEEP YOU IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
Sandi Van Pelt says
Dixie and Don’s family..I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Berta and Leo Conner says
Dixie and Don’s family, I am saddened by the loss of a such a fun loving guy!! My prayers and thoughts are with you and his family. May god comfort you and give you strength during this difficult time
Carol Larsen says
Dixie, I just saw this and was so sorry to hear the passing of your friend. He was a
special person. May God help all of you have comfort in knowing Don is in his
arms and well again.
Dorthy Ley says
Dixie & All of Don’s & your family as your family thought the world of him as well, he was so funny to be around made us all laugh & especially you Dixie, may he rest in pease. Call anytime. Love Dorthy & Jerry.
Wayne Strange says
I remember many pleasant lunches at the Colstrip Senior Center with Don and Eileen. Don was a great asset to Colstrip. He was a leader and a good man.
Jackson Craig says
Dixie and All of Don’s and your family, He is remembered as wonderful friend and great gentleman by so many in the Colstrip, Forsyth community to even Billings area the adventures occurred. God knows your sorrow and He will be with you. A loving God is with you now so place your trust in Him. For faith will be your guiding light that time can never dim, And through His mercy you will find that He will lead the way, To His own special promise a new and brighter day. As we celebrate his life and precious moments remembrance.
Ken Stokes says
Sorry to hear of Don’s passing. I worked with Don for several years at the plant and always considered him a friend. Don always had a smile and a kind word. Don was one of the “Good Guys”. He will be missed by his family and friends.
Peggy Redman & Earl Mortensen says
Dear Dixie and Don’s family,
Earl joins me in extending heartfelt sympathy to you in Don’s passing. May you find comfort and strength in knowing others care. We are thinking of, and praying for you at this difficult time. May warm memories help soften your sorrow, and may faith help you face each tomorrow.
Terry/Joyce Angell says
Don and I worked many Years together…. Don was a great friend. Don always called me Squirrel, So Don was always Squirrel one , and I squirrel two. You were loved by many, and I am proud to have called him my Friend. Smile On Squirrel One…….Prayers to your family and friends… (Squirrel Two)
Terry Angell.
Bob and Naomi Rusdal says
Hi Dixie and Dons Family
Sorry to hear of Dons passing. You and family ate in our prayers at this sad time.
With Sympathy
Naomi and Bob Rusdal