Dennis James Poni Cappo Jr.

Dennis James Poni Cappo Jr., “Wambdi Sapa” (Black Eagle) of Warwick, ND passed away on Friday, June 14, 2019 at his home in the loving care of his family.  He was 49 years old.

Dennis James was born on November 14, 1969 at Devils Lake, ND the son of Dennis J. Poni Cappo Sr. and Jeanette M. Herald. He grew up in the St. Michael area, attending school at Sweetwater Elementary and Central Middle School in Devils Lake, and graduated from Four Winds High School in Fort Totten.   

For 20 years, he worked in shipping and receiving at the Spirit Lake Casino and Resort. Dennis also worked in the kitchen at The Ranch Steakhouse and later Darrell’s Bar in Warwick until being diagnosed with Stage 4 colon, liver and lung cancer in January of 2019. 

Dennis was famous and well-known under the many names of the successful concession stands he and Michelle with family operated at many events throughout the state and part of Minnesota.   People were always on the lookout for the blue truck serving the many delicious creations from Dennis and Michelle.

Dennis worked hard to support his family but he took time to have fun with family and friends too. He loved fishing, camping, cook-outs, bon fires and Ranger (ATV) rides around the country.  Spending time with family and friends who were closest to him were the best of times.

Dennis was a die-hard Vikings football fan and attended several Def Leppard Concerts. “Livin On Love” by Alan Jackson was his theme song.  Dennis married the love of his life, his soul mate Michelle Christofferson on July 15, 2000 at the Warwick Lutheran Church and they have made Warwick their home through the years.  He was so thankful for the love and support of Michelle and his extended family and many dear friends. 

Dennis is survived by his loving family. His wife of 18 years Michelle Christofferson; mother Jeanette Herald; step mother Sharon Martin; mother-in-law Donna (Gordy Harding) Christofferson; daughters Latasha Berg and Latisha Longie and grandchildren Scarlett and Veronica; children Chris Christofferson, Crystal Christofferson, grandchildren Kiah, Jordan and Kion and step daughter Allyssa (Nate) Flom and step granddaughter Gracie; siblings Janel Herald, Denise Poni Cappo, Jarrett (Jamie) Smith, Lorinda (Brett) DeMarce, Cali DeMarce, Nevesa (Dominic) Little Owl, Memory Poni Cappo, Crystal Poni Cappo, Christopher Poni Cappo, Cecelia Poni Cappo, Dorette Poni Cappo; sister-in-law Monica Christofferson; very special and dear aunt, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins who were so very special to him.

He was preceded in death by his Dad, Dennis; brothers Gabriel Edward Smith Jr., Wambdi Shaw (Red Eagle) and Christopher DeMarce; grandparents William Herald, James Kakenowash and Rose Poni Cappo; nephew Forrest Evan Weber; cousin Dennis “Puff” Wilkie; father-in-law Milo Christofferson; daughter-in-law Amber Langstaff.