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Arlynn "Arly" Elray Goplen, age 94, of Hettinger, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the Western Horizon's Care Center in Hettinger.

Arly was born on April 15, 1932, in Wanamingo, Minnesota, to Martin and Marie (Greseth) Goplen. Following the heartbreaking loss of his mother, Marie, Arly moved to the Erickson family farm 20 miles north of Hettinger at an early age. The Ericksons welcomed him into their lives, and he grew up on the farm, later becoming a dedicated, lifelong farmhand whose hard work and deep commitment to the land were valued by the family for decades.

Arly was a proud member of the NRA and liked to hunt. On weekend nights, he could always be found in town shooting pool with friends, enjoying a good game and steady companionship. He cherished his roots and looked forward every year to traveling to Zumbrota, Minnesota, to attend his family reunions.

His faith was a quiet cornerstone of his life. Arly regularly attended Richland Church services, where he found great joy and a sense of purpose in being part of the weekly offering, specifically the passing of the collection plate to the congregation. Arly lived a life marked by simple pleasures, resilience, hard work, and a kind, generous spirit that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, close friends and neighbors who shared in his life's journey. Arly was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Marie Goplen, and his siblings: Frank and Edith Goplen, Philip and Elsie Goplen, Ruby and Les Johnson, Sherman and Ethel Goplen, Edith and Bud Hollibaugh, and Maynard and Louise Goplen.

Arly's memorial service is scheduled for Friday, September 25th, at 10:00 a.m. at the Centennial Chapel in Hettinger, ND. A graveside service for Arly's ashes will be at the Hettinger Cemetery following the service, and a second burial for Arly's ashes will take place at a later date in Zumbrota Cemetery in Minnesota.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider planting a memorial tree or making a donation to a local charity of your choice in Arly's honor.