The news forced me to pull over from the highway and have a moment. I was stunned, to say the least.

I just picked Joe up at his house and had breakfast with him about a week ago. He showed me his new shop that he just finished and all his new toys. He was very proud, as he always is. Joe and I spent the morning just catching up with each other and came up and spent the rest of the morning with me on the Rum River property going over the project. In fact, Joe wanted to do some of our concrete work on the project.

Joe Karpen, taught me everything about the Mille Lacs ice business and what to do in certain circumstances with the roads on the ice when I was running Appeldoorn’s (Formerly Karpen’s Sunset Bay Resort). He was always ready and willing to lend a hand or give me advice at anytime. Although Joe was not exactly happy with the new direction the resort was going, and regardless of what the conditions were at that time. Joe was always there for me when I was running the resort and asked for his help. And for that I am forever thankful to Joe.

In fact, I know to be exact that Joe was still helping out at the resort up to the day he passed. The resort was his life and so was Lake Mille Lacs.

He was one of the toughest but gentle guys I‘ll ever know in my lifetime. Joe Karpen, would literally give you the shirt off his back if he thought you truly needed it. He had a heart bigger than anyone I have come across in my life. He was truly a gift given to all of us.

He was not a good man. He was a great man. He always fought for what he believe to be the right thing to do. I know that I will miss him dearly as will many others, that had the privilege to have know Mr. Joe Karpen.

To Joe’s family, I am so sorry that I was out of town and missed his services. My thoughts and prayers are with Joe’s family.

I am very proud to say I knew Mr. Joe Karpen. God rest his sole.

Joe’s grand-kids were his pride and joy. Passing on his fishing heritage to the grand-kids was very special to Joe. He was never happier than when those kids were winding in walleyes. Kids–proudly remember your grandpa! And keep catching those walleyes for him!

Joe–thanks for the memories and especially for all the unprecedented effort on behalf of Mighty Mille Lacs.

Steve Fellegy
North Shore of Mille Lacs

He will be greatly missed.

Prayers and condolences go out to Marty, the boys and the other extended family I have had the privilege of knowing and meeting from those great years at Karpons Resort.

Thanks Joe.