Daniel Koupal

Dates

Obituary

Daniel Koupal, 95, passed from this earth at his home on the lake with those who loved him on Monday, January 12, 2026. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 AM Friday, January 16, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Mitchell, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Mitchell.

Daniel James Koupal was born to William and Helen Koupal on April 25,1930, and was raised in Lesterville, SD along with his two brothers, Gene and Bill. Baseball was a big part of life for all of them with many days and nights spent on the field. Dan graduated from Scotland High School and USD, planning on becoming a math teacher and coach.

He married the absolute love of his life, Patricia Walsh, on September 11, 1954, and they had many adventures together raising their family and traveling the world. Pat was not keen on the teacher/coach thing, so Dan started his first business with American Family in a little office above Johnson Furniture. He then branched out into a successful career in real estate and many other business adventures.

Dan served his country in the Korean War as an artillery instructor and as a longtime member of the SD National Guard, retiring at the rank of Major. He took seriously his role in his community and served in many organizations and on many boards. Dan was also a hunter, a steward of the land, and proud of his Czech heritage. He, his dad and brothers all had beautiful voices and would harmonize on songs from their culture during the holidays. A highlight every year for Dan was the trip to Canada to fish for northern and walleye with his sons, family members and friends.

While all these things were part of Dan, the most important things were his family and his faith. He and Pat created many wonderful memories at the lake house and the family cabin in the Black Hills for their children and relatives. Christmas Eve always came with prime rib and houska, and the Fourth of July with homemade ice cream.

Dan is survived by his children: Karen Koupal, Dan (Mona) Koupal, Katy (Marc) Olson, John (Karen) Koupal, Trish Koupal, and Bill (Pam) Koupal; his ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren who he loved having around in his later years; his brother, Bill; as well as the extended Koupal and Walsh clans.

Going before him are his beautiful wife, Patricia, on March 13, 2012; his parents; brother, Gene; and two grandsons.

Dad, we will miss you so much, but are comforted in knowing you are with your beloved Pat. Love you, your family.

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