Steven John Pothen

Steven John Pothen, age 78, of Wadena, formerly of Murdock, died unexpectedly Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Astera Health in Wadena, Minnesota. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock, Minnesota, with a rosary being prayed at 4:45 p.m. Visitation will continue from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Murdock, Minnesota. Zniewski Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

Steven John Pothen was born March 27, 1946, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Frank Mathias Pothen and Blanche Young Pothen. He grew up in Murdock, Minnesota, and attended Murdock High School. Steven attended North Dakota State School of Science in Whapeton, North Dakota, from 1964 to 1966, pursuing his degree in Diesel Mechanics.

Steven loved flying and acquired his private aircraft pilot license. He rebuilt several small airplanes including a Stearman Biplane that he purchased in pieces. He completely rebuilt the Stearman to its original condition and later sold it to a Hollywood Production Company who used the plane in the TV Series “Black Sheep Squadron” that aired from 1976 to 1978.

Until his retirement in 2012, Steven worked in road construction for numerous companies. He maintained his interest in airplanes and enjoyed local fly-ins, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and lived a quiet rural life with his dog in Wadena, Minnesota.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Blanche Pothen, brothers Jim Pothen and Francis Pothen, and brother-in-law Francis Kappel.

Steven is survived by his children Brian Pothen of Wadena, MN and Stephanie Pothen of Wadena MN, and his siblings Carol Pothen Kappel of Winsted MN and Joseph (Sandra) Pothen of Faribault MN.