Philip Jacob Kupser , 74, Minot and formerly of Karlsruhe died on Friday, September 12, 2008 in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Phil was born on October 17, 1933 in Karlsruhe, ND to Philip and Margaret (Gefroh) Kupser. He was raised in the Karlsruhe area and attended Catholic School prior to graduating from Karlsruhe High School in 1953. As a young adult he began his career with the Burlington Northern Railroad. He was employed as a switchman and conductor for more than 40 years prior to his retirement in 1996. In addition, he owned and operated Minot Sprinkler and Irrigation for more than 25 years, was a partner in Eastside Enterprises LTD for nine years and built several houses for family and friends.

Phil married Sheron Fimreite on October 27, 1958 at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Minot. They made their home in Minot and had resided on El Rio Drive for many years.

Phil was a member of St. Leo's Catholic Church - Minot, Knights of Columbus and Moose Lodge. He was a member and three term President of the Rolling Stock Investment Club and especially enjoyed yardwork and playing pinochle at the Moose Lodge.

Phil's loving family includes his wife of almost 50 years Sheron; children: Kathy (John) Younker of Hazen, Karla McDonald of Minot, Kristi (Cory Kressin) Kupser of Minot and Konnie (Glen) Hardy of Minot; grandchildren: Annette (Jay) Van Dyke, Jacob and Andrew Younker, Kendra Haugen (Mike Neff) and Levi Haugen, Anna and Leah McDonald, Ross, Jenna and Elsie Hardy; great grandchildren: Ava Van Dyke and Liam Neff; sisters: Elizabeth Job and Cecilia Meyer both of Rugby and Eva Feller of Karlsruhe and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings: Katherine, Adeline, Ludwig and Edward Kupser; Theresa Keller, Magdalena Schaan, Regina Abel, Margaret Horner, Rose Mary Steagall and Veronica Simon.

Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday September 17, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. in St. Leo's Catholic Church - Minot.
Rosary with Vigil Prayer Service: Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home - Minot.
Visitation: Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home - Minot.
Interment will be in Rosehill Memorial Park.
Memorials are preferred to St. Leo's Church and Trinity Hospice.