Donald L. Trooien Sr

In loving memory of Donald L. Trooien Sr., born to Oscar and Cora in St. Paul on March 6, 1928. Don passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024, joining his wife Patricia on what would have been their 75th wedding anniversary.

Don enrolled at Macalester College on a football scholarship in 1945, but schooling was interrupted when he chose instead to enlist in the Navy as an air traffic controller during WWII. Don went on to join the City of St. Paul’s Police Force, serving for 35 years, rising from Police Officer, to Detective, solving numerous homicides, and finally retiring as Captain of the East Side Precinct. Don was well respected by City Leaders and his colleagues within the force. As a long-time member of Alcoholics Anonymous, Don inspired and guided many fellow officers to sobriety.

Don is remembered for his unwavering love for his family, quick wit, humble demeanor, sparkling blue eyes, and ready smile. His proudest accomplishment and greatest joy were his children and bountiful family. Please honor his memory by spreading kindness, understanding and compassion, each and every day.

Don was preceded in death by wife Patricia, his parents, brother Ozzie, sister-in-law Gerry, son-in-law John Slagle and many friends from his associations.

Survived by children Timothy (Gayla), Lawrence (Joyce Bowers), Victoria Slagle, Nan (Tom Johnson), Thomas (Chong Ok), Christine (Bill DeRose), Peter (Star), Susan (Roger Ferguson), Patricia (Jan Smith), and Donald Jr. (Denise). Grandchildren: Katie, Annie (Christian) Mike (Arianne), Ben (Alicia), Dan (Abby) Jonathan, Chris, Randy (Mary), Andrew (Ji Won), Jennifer (Patrick), Jeff, Tony (Molly), Mara, Ellie (Will), Dylan (Chrystine), Dara (Tony), Nikki, Luca, Liam, Spencer, Jack, and Abigail. Great-Grandchildren; Paisely, Oscar, Luna, Grace, Michael, Benjamin, William, Arthur, Hollis, Murphy, Taylor, Hailey, Lenora, Rudy, Madison, Lexington, Maxwell, Zayleah, Rivers, and Cohen.

A visitation will be held on August 12th from 4pm to 7pm at Wulff Chapel, 2195 Woodlane Dr. Woodbury MN 55125.

Mass will be held on August 13th at 10 am at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 8260 4th St. N. Oakdale MN 55128. A private burial follows at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Second Harvest, whose mission is ending hunger.