Theodore Stephan Propotnik

Theodore Stephan Propotnik, 80, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 5, 2015 at Cottagewood Senior Community. Theodore was born October 5, 1935 in Hibbing, MN to Albert and Dolores (Nobens) Propotnik. He was a 1954 graduate of Rochester Senior High School. He studied Mechanical Drafting in College and later worked as a contract Draftsman for companies such as 3M, Honeywell and McNeilus.He later worked for McNeilus MTM and later as a machine operator at Crenlo for 20 plus years. Theodore proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Army and served as a member of the Armys Honor Guard and participated in the burial services of many Veterans in Presidio California. He was a member of Pax Christi Catholic Church in Rochester for many years and passed his belief in Christ onto his children. He loved skiing, motorcycles, antique cars, tinkering with machinery and motorcycle racing. Theodore enjoyed traveling, he was especially fond of California and visiting his daughters while they were in residence there as well as friends he enjoyed there.He enjoyed gold mining in Idaho and he enjoyed several trips to Florida with his family pursuing Space Shuttle launches, a program he was particularly fond of. Above all, Theodore loved spending time and making memories with his family. Theodore is survived by his children, Jackie (Ed) Nelsen of Stillwater, MN, Erik (Andrea) Propotnik of Rochester, Briana (Matt) Beatty of Woodbury, MN; grandchildren, Ariel Larsen, Sophia Nelsen, Kellan and Keira Beatty, Ava and Olivia Propotnik; sister, Linda Lee of Rochester; brothers, Tom (Peggy) Lee of Pine Island, MN, Bobby Lee of LaCrosse, WI, Larry Propotnik of Rush City, MN; his former spouse and good friend, Janice Larsen of Rochester and numerous nieces and nephews. Theodore was preceded in death by his mother, Dolores; father, Albert and by his stepfather, Robert Bob Lee. A memorial service will be held 10:00am Friday, January 8, 2016 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Friends and Family are also invited to join his children at Whistle Binkies North, Fireside room, to celebrate Teds life at noon.Interment will occur at a later date with Teds family at Preston Veterans State Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Theodore to the Alzheimer Association. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901