SSGT Timothy Brian Poppenger

Timothy Brian Poppenger was born May 9, 1948 in Van Nuys, California and passed away on November 20, 2009, at his residence in Belton, Texas. After months in hospice care, he was released from his pain and suffering.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army for many years, including service in Vietnam, and retired as a Staff Sergeant.

On the day after Thanksgiving, over two dozen Patriot Guard Riders gathered at shelter two of the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery to honor this hero. A line of American flags was formed around the shelter to welcome SSGT. Poppenger’s family and friends for interment services.

After the family and friends gathered, full military honors were rendered, by an Army Honor Guard, including the firing of three volleys of fire by the rifle detail and the playing of taps. The American flag was folded into a tight triangle, and presented to his daughter, Tammy.

The family then carried his cremated remains to a nearby burial site, and SSGT Poppenger was laid to rest on the gentle slope of the hill, atop which the American flag was flying at half-staff in his honor.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, two sons, 11 grandchildren and many other dear family and friends.

Life on earth for you was no longer meant to be,
It was time to go with God so he could set you free.
God saw you getting tired as your fight was at its end.
So he took you in his arms and whispered, “come with me my friend”.
Our hearts quickly filled with great sadness and sorrow,
Because we can no longer have you for just one more tomorrow.
So we will miss you dearly as you lay down to rest,
but now we know you are with God and he is the best.

Anonymous

With thanks to the Temple Daily Telegram for biographical information.