Obituaries
     
   
     

Robert Martin Armstrong

October 29, 1950 - July 8, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Thursday, July 10, 2008 at 12:00 p.m.

 

Robert Martin Armstrong, 57, Sturgis, died Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at his residence in Sturgis.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. until time of services on Thursday.
Committal services will be 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2008 at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with Chaplains Randy Bradley and Charley Conger officiating. Friends may gather at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis prior to leaving for the cemetery.
Robert was born October 29, 1950 at Little Rock, AR, to Robert Martin and Gerata (Goss) Armstrong. He moved several times as a child before graduating from high school in Vandalia, OH. Robert joined the US Army and served his country honorably for six years. Upon leaving the service he found employment in North Carolina. He returned to Dayton, OH and attended community college and studied architectural engineering. He also attended a Sawyer College in Dayton where he became a certified police officer. He was employed as a private police officer in Dayton before moving to Washington and working in the Department of Corrections in the Washington State Prison System.
Robert retired in 1999 and moved to Sturgis.
He was a lifetime member of the DAV and was a leader in the Boy Scouts of America for 25 years.
Survivors include his partner, Terri Overweg, Sturgis; one daughter Katie Armstrong, Sturgis.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Lance S. Wald

March 12, 1961 - July 7, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, July 11, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.

 

Lance Stuart Wald, 47, Box Elder, died Monday, July 7, 2008 at his residence in Box Elder.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis on Thursday.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, July 11, 2008 at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis with Pastor Jim Harbert officiating. Burial will take place at a later date.
Lance was born March 12, 1961 at Linton, ND, to Clarence and Marjorie (Levi) Wald. He grew up in Eureka, SD where he graduated from Eureka High School. He was employed at a local grocery store as a meat cutter.
Lance married Kim Boschee and had three children.
He was hired by the State of South Dakota as a meat inspector and moved to Rapid City in 1987. He met Marcia Clarke in 1992 and the couple was married in 1993. Lance continued to inspect for the state and travelled Western South Dakota.
Lance was active in ASA Softball and umpired for many years. He also enjoyed bowling, auction sales and riding his Harley. He loved his hobby farm.
Survivors include his wife, Marcia Wald, Box Elder; three sons, Andre (Abby) Wald, Whitehall, NY, Tyson Wald, Rapid City, Brian (Chrissy) Clarke, Tucson, AZ; two daughters, Megan (Robert) Fees, Fayetteville, NC, Karin (Jason Krebsbach) Clarke, Rapid City; mother, Marjorie Wald, Eureka, SD; one brother, Landis Wald, Sioux Falls; one sister, Letty (Earl) Mehlhaff, Eureka; three grandchildren, Trynyty, Taylor and Becca.
He was preceded in death by his father and one brother, Lonnie.
A memorial has been established.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Ross Anderson Tennis

January 24, 1934 - July 6, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Thursday, July 10, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.

 

Ross Anderson Tennis, 74, rural Sturgis, died at his ranch on Sunday, July 6, 2008.
Visitation will be from 8:00 a.m. until time of services on Thursday at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.
Committal services will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis with Pastor Harold Delbridge officiating. Friends may gather at the funeral chapel prior to leaving for the cemetery.
Ross was born January 24, 1934, at Sturgis, SD, to Archie and Clara (Orr) Tennis. He attended school in Sturgis and after completing his education he returned to the ranch.
Ross married Donna Mae Grebner on October 28, 1961, in Sturgis. Together, they operated the ranch and dairy for 30 years. Ross had recently retired and started to enjoy the "Front Porch Club".
Survivors include his wife, Donna, rural Sturgis; two sons, Ronnie (Belinda) Tennis and Charles (Roslie) Tennis, Vale; one daughter, Sandra (Travis) Pokorney, Gillette, WY; one brother, Raymond (Joyce) Tennis Phoenix, AZ; and several cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.
A memorial has been established to the American Heart Association.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Farrell Clayton Nightwine

October 5, 1933 - July 5, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.

 

Farrell Clayton Nightwine, 74, Black Hawk, died Saturday, July 5, 2008, at the Black Hills VA Health Care Center at Ft. Meade, SD.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. until time of services at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.
Committal services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, 2008 at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with Chaplain Paul Lupkes officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard.
Farrell was born October 5, 1933 at Detroit, MI. He was raised by his grandmother and attended school in Detroit. He joined the US Army at an early age and served his country in Korea, Germany and Viet Nam. He was awarded numerous certificates and earned his GED. After his honorable discharge he returned to Ft. Campbell, KY. He lived in Clarksville, TN and worked for Integrity Security in Clarksville for many years. In the late 90's he moved to Black Hawk to be near his family.
Farrell was an avid collector and enjoyed a large collection of knives and other memorabilia.
Survivors include his son David (Lori) Nightwine, Black Hawk, SD; one daughter, Sheela (Dale) VanDamme, Gillette, WY; daughter in law, Pamela Nightwine, Marrionette, WI; brother Earl Robert Davison, Chicago, IL; one sister Daine Leonard, Cleveland, NY; also 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son Frederick James Nightwine and one daughter, Cecilia Nightwine.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Laura E. Grubl

October 16, 1914 - July 3, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday, July 7, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.

 

Laura E. Grubl, 93, Sturgis, died Thursday, July 3, 2008 at the Lippold Hospice Suite in the Sturgis Regional Health Care Center.
Visitation will be noon until 9 p.m. on Sunday with a rosary beginning at 5 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2 p.m. Monday, July 7th at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Sturgis with Father Arnold Kari officiating. Burial follows at the St. Aloysius Cemetery in Sturgis.
A memorial has been established to St. Aloysius Cemetery, St. Martin's Chapel and the Meade County Senior Center.
Laura was born at Volunteer, SD, on October 16, 1914 to George W. And Evalyn (Speer) Thein the youngest of seven children. She was married to Carl J. Grubl on November 27, 1930 at Bear Butte, SD.
Laura and Carl ranched on Alkali from the "Dirty Thirties" until they retired and moved to Sturgis in the fall of 1983.
Laura was a very active member of the community. She was a 4H Leader for over ten years, a charter member of the Alkali Busy Bee Extension Club that was organized in 1935, Alkali Community Club, Sturgis Hospital Auxiliary, Western Dakota Antique Club, Sturgis Senior Center, Black Hills Corral of Westerners, Butte County Historical Society, Arts Group at Senior Center, Past President of the Sturgis AARP Chapter, Past President and District I Counselor for the Sturgis Hospital Auxiliary and President at the time the Scholarship Program was set up to educate future health care personnel that would in turn benefit the Sturgis Health Care Facility and continued service on the Scholarship Board from 1966 to the present time.
Laura was the first employed director of the Meade County Senior Center and held this position from 1985 through 1989. She was County Chairman, Vice Chairman, Historian, Clothing Project Leader, Mental Health Project Leader for the Meade County Extension Clubs serving on many committees and also was an avid participant in compiling the Northwest Meade County History Book.
Laura is survived by her son Larry Grubl, Sturgis; daughters, Margery Haberman, Mesa, AZ, Betty Wells, Sturgis; 16 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband Carl, daughter in law, Jerilyn Grubl, son in law, George Wells, great grandsons AJ Frey and Lee Lehrkamp; parents; brothers, George, Earl and Clarence Thein; sisters, Agnes May, Clara Bachand and Ida Murray.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

George Leonard Erk

February 20, 1924 - June 26, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Tuesday July 1, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.

 

GEORGE LEONARD ERK

“Old ranchers never die, they just go to seed and new
life will spring from the seeds they planted.”
-Larry Gabriel

Born on February 20, 1924 George Leonard Erk was the third of five children born to Ludwig L. and Anna T. (Jestl) Erk. George was born in a farm home near Newell, SD, grew up on his father’s homestead approximately ten miles east of Castle Rock, SD, and spent his entire life on the windswept prairies of northwest SD.
George was baptized as an infant at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Newell and remained a dedicated member of the parish for his entire lifetime.
George attended grade school at the one room Deermont country school located 1.5 miles northeast of the family ranch. Going to school meant walking that distance each day, along with his siblings, whatever the weather might be. He graduated from the eighth grade there and went on to attend high school at St. Martin’s High School in Sturgis, where he graduated in 1943. While in high school George roomed at the Bruch family home in Sturgis, going home whenever possible. He enjoyed his high school years and learned to play the trumpet for the school band. This musical training made it easier to learn to play the accordion, which he later taught himself to do.
After high school George returned to the family homestead to continue in the work he knew and loved, sheep ranching. About 1948 he and his brother Joe moved a few miles north of the family homestead to the Mac Doody ranch home where they continued ranching on their own. Later, George married the love of his life, Helen Ruff, of Vale, SD on Aug. 16, 1950. They were married at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Rapid City, SD and then returned to the ranch where they settled in to raise three sons, Gregory, David and Mark. Joe remained with them for a year or so and then moved to his own farm.
In the 1950’s George and his brothers, Joe and John, partnered in the sheep industry and began raising registered Rambouillet sheep in an ongoing effort to improve the sheep industry by developing quality fine-wooled sheep. They began their venture by purchasing 13 registered ewes from a rancher in Wyoming. Through much hard work and careful selection of stock their efforts paid out. By 1978 the three brothers topped the market at the national Rambouillet Show and Sale in San Antonio, TX. George continued in the sheep and cattle business until just the past few years, when poor health and drought farm conditions caused him to sell off his livestock.
Over the years George experienced many changes in his ranch operation but his dedication and love for ranching never changed. Beginning in the 1960’s wheat farming and long hours in the tractor were just another part of what he enjoyed. Despite his failing health, he was still actively helping with the field work into the spring of 2007 and he still looked forward to seeing what this year’s bountiful rainfall would produce.
As a part of ranching George embarked on water conservation early on. He designed and built a dike / dam system to catch, hold and direct water runoff in an effort to get as much benefit from rains and snow as possible. Those early dikes and dams are still providing beneficial water conservation resources today throughout the ranch.
In his early days, George enjoyed playing his accordion in a small 4-piece band. The group provided music for local dances and other events. George loved to play the accordion for all the polka and country music lovers to dance to. He never lost his love for music and even in later years he would delight in playing his accordion for the cake walk during St. Mary’s annual Turkey Dinner event each fall. Although George spent most of his time working, he enjoyed the pastimes of hunting, trapping and fishing, as well as playing cards and cribbage. He was well-known for his dedication to Sunday afternoon card games at the Hoover Store, and he was always up to the challenge of a game of cribbage when one of his brothers-in-law stopped by. Family gatherings, whether for work or for fun, were welcome moments for him especially in later years. Despite his late introduction to the world of technology George developed a fascination with computers and email in his later years, which increased his contact with many people that he enjoyed.
George’s dedication to his rural lifestyle and his community could be seen in his involvement with local and national organizations. George was a founding and ongoing member of the Castle Rock Fire Department for 44 years. He also served one term as the President of the National Rambouillet Association in the 1970’s. George served as a Butte County Commissioner as well as a board member to the former ASCS Office. He was a member of Board of Trustees at St. Mary’s Church and was an active member of the Butte County Historical Society, assisting with the building and placement of many cement markers of historic post office sites in Butte County. Along with these activities George was an outspoken advocate for the right to life of unborn children.
After decades of heart problems and failing health in recent years, George L. Erk left the burdens of this life behind on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at the Sturgis Community Hospital surrounded by loved ones, including his wife of over 57 years. With the exception of spending the last two winters in Newell, he lived his entire life at the ranch and although the last few months were physically very challenging for him, his continued hope and dream was to return to the ranch he loved.
In looking back at the life of George L. Erk one sees the reflection of a man, dedicated to practicing his faith, providing for his family, and holding tight to the land and the work he knew and loved so well. For George, a cowboy hat, hard work and a man’s dignity were essential; vacations, undisciplined lives, and tennis shoes were unnecessary things to be avoided; a good joke or story was as appreciated as a big slice of pie; and a perfect day was seeing an inch of rain fall on the wheat field just AFTER all the docking or branding got done so that he and Helen could head off to church on a Saturday night.
“Good night, George. We’ll miss you always.”
George is survived by his wife, Helen, of Newell, SD; sons, Gregory (Reni) Erk, Aurora, OR; Dr. David (Phyllis) Erk, Casper, WY; Mark (Candy) Erk, Rapid City, SD;
2 sisters, Sr. Celine Erk, Rapid City, SD; Elizabeth (Neil) Chauncey, Denison, TX; 1 brother, John (Mary) Erk, Newell, SD; seven Grandchildren; nine Great-Grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
George was preceded in death by his parents, Ludwig and Anna Erk; and his brother, Joseph Erk.
Wake and Christian Prayer services will be 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 30, 2008 at the St. Mary's Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newell.
Funeral services for George will be 2:00 p.m., July 1, 2008 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Newell, SD with internment at the Newell Hope Cemetery.
Memorials have been established for St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, Castle Rock Fire Department, and South Dakota Right to Life.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Gabriel Valades

March 24, 1924 - June 27, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Wednesday, July 2, 2008, at 1:00 p.m.

 

Gabriel Valades, 84, Sturgis, died Friday, June 27, 2008, at the Fort Meade VA Medical Center.
Gabe was born March 24, 1924, in Edgemont, SD, to Catarino and Andrea (Uvalle) Valades. He grew up in Edgemont and graduated from Edgemont High School. He was proud that he was able to attend every class reunion. Gabe served in the US Army during WWII from 1943 until his honorable discharge in 1946.
Gabe was married to Helen M. Cordova in Deadwood, SD, on August 27, 1949. They lived in Glendo, WY, where Gabe taught school. They later moved their family to Sturgis where Gabe worked at Fort Meade as an Industrial Therapist for 30 years.
Gabe was a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the VFW. He was a Scout Master for 12 years and was referred to as "Mr. Scouting." Gabe was also active in the Little League program and coached many teams. He had a life-long love of the guitar, singing, and harmonica and encouraged the love of music to kids.
Survivors include his wife, Helen Valades, Spearfish; three sons, Joseph Valades, Spearfish, John Valades, Casper, WY, and David Valades and his wife, Marcy, Puyallup, WA; four daughters, Rita Valades, Rapid City, SD, Cathy Valades-Flynn and her husband, Bill, Laramie, WY, Andrea Valades, Sturgis, and Anita Valades, Rapid City; two brothers, Salvador "Chuck" Valades, Sturgis, and Father Reuben Valades, Rapid City; one sister, Inez Martinez, Chadron, NE; and six grandchildren, Shannon, Steven, Domenic, Kerry, Nicholas, and Marcus.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Gabe, one sister, and two brothers.
A memorial has been established.
Visitation will be Tuesday from noon until 9:00 p.m. with a rosary and Christian prayer service beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Arnold Kari officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Douglas Charles Rahe

June 17, 1958 - June 26, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday, June 30, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.

 

Douglas C. Rahe, 50, of Sturgis, died Thursday, June 26, 2008, at the Rapid City Regional Hospital after a lengthy illness.
Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2008, at the Black Hills National Cemetery with Pastor Randy Sturzenbecher officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard. Family and friends will gather at 1:00 pm at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis to leave for the cemetery.
Visitation will begin at noon Sunday, June 29, 2008 at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel and run until 8:00 p.m.
Douglas Charles Rahe was born June 17, 1958, to Leonard and Eunice (Rang) Rahe in Valentine, NE. He lived, attended, and graduated from grade school and high school in Hot Springs, SD. Doug then enlisted and served in the US Army. After his honorable discharge, Doug settled in Sturgis and worked for Crum Electric of Rapid City.
Doug is survived by his parents, Leonard and Eunice Rahe of Sturgis; two brothers, Mike (Mary) of Burt, IA, and Scott (Robin) of West Chesterfield, NH; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial has been established.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Arthur Gene Wilson

November 26, 1941 - June 25, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday, June 30, 2008 at 11:30 a.m.

 

Arthur Gene Wilson, 67, Sturgis, joined our Heavenly Father June 25, 2008, at home with his family after waging a courageous battle against lung cancer.
Arthur was born on November 26, 1941, on his parents' farm, south of Ree Heights, SD, to James and Corlena (Van Den Berg) Wilson. The family left the farm when he was six years old, but he spent time helping on his uncle, Harry Wilson, and great-uncle, Arie DeGest, farms.
He enlisted in the US Navy on March 28, 1961. He graduated with honors with I. C. Electricians, Class A, on October 6, 1961. He served on the Aircraft Carrier, USS Forrestal. He received his honorable discharge on July 15, 1964.
Arthur was united in marriage to Bonnie Kopecky on July 31, 1965, and to this union, five children were born.
He began his working career in 1955 at the local grocery store as a butcher's helper. His working experiences took him to Nebraska, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. In 1974, they purchased the Phillip processing plant. In 1977, he worked as an Electrical Engineer at Wyodak in Gillette, WY. In 1980, they owned and operated a logging business. After being injured in a logging accident in 1981, the family then started the S & W Bait business in 1983, which at the same time, they owned and operated a home for the elderly where he enjoyed cooking the meals.
After retiring from the Bait business in 2000, he enjoyed gardening, cooking meals, and baking for his family and friends and spending time with his dogs.
During his lifetime, he enjoyed boxing, where as a teenager, he won the honor of the most promising boxer and two years in a row, won the Golden Gloves Championship. He also enjoyed breaking horses, raccoon hunting, and hunting and fishing with his family, friends, and many of his nieces and nephews.
During the recovery period of the Rapid City flood, he and his dogs helped to recover lost loved ones for many families. His efforts were greatly appreciated and rewarded by the City of Rapid City.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Bonnie Wilson of Sturgis; three daughters, Tammy Halvorsen (Devin, Adam) of Black Hawk, SD, Tracy Wilson (Toby) and Terri (Bill) Roden, (Joshua, Alicia, Tanlynn, Justice) of Sturgis; two sons, Ted (Jenny) Wilson (Destiny, Anissa, Rylan, Jaeden) of Piedmont, SD, and Troy Wilson (Staysha) of Gillette, WY; one sister, Janet (Tom) Snyder of Rapid City, SD; and one brother, Leland (Betty) Wilson of Norfolk, NE.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, two sisters, two nieces, and two great-nephews.
A memorial has been established.
Visitation will be noon until 9 p.m. on Sunday at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis. Family will be present from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 30, 2008 at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis with Pastor Harold Delbridge officiating. Burial with military honors by the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard will follow at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Clifford C. Boice

November 21, 1924 - June 23, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Tuesday, July 1, 2008, at 11:00 a.m.

 

Clifford Claire Boice, 83, Sturgis, died Monday, June 23, 3008, at the Sheridan Manor in Sheridan, WY.
Clifford was born at Lead, SD, on November 21, 1924, to Mark and Hazel (Nash) Boice. He grew up and attended school at Galena, Trojan, and graduated from Lead High School in 1942. He served in the US Navy during WWII, receiving his honorable discharge on December 17, 1945. After the service, he lived in Spearfish and later in Wyoming where he worked as a farm hand. From 1954 until 1982, he worked at the Fort Meade VA Medical Center in nursing service.
Cliff was married to Beatrice Baker in Lead on May 8, 1948. He later married Dorothy Wetz in Sundance, WY, on July 20, 1968.
He was a lifetime member of the VFW and served on the Sturgis Honor Guard. Cliff was also a member of the American Legion and the Eagle's Lodge in Deadwood. Cliff also served in the National Guard.
Survivors include three sons, Philip of Sheridan, WY, Jeffery (Cherilyn) of Bloomington, MN, and Michael (Leesa) of Knoxville, TN; one daughter, Suzanne (Billy) Boykin of Bosier City, LA; two stepsons, Dan (Linda) Reuppel of Des Moines, IA, and Don (Debbie) Reuppel of Littleton, CO; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Dorothy, and one brother, Tom.
Visitation will be on Monday, June 30th from noon to 8:00 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Chaplain Herbert Cleveland officiating. Burial will be held Wednesday July 2, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery with military honors provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard.
A memorial has been established to the Sturgis VFW.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Jack B. Crowser

February 24, 1940 - June 25, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, June 27, 2008, at 11:30 a.m.

 

Jack B. Crowser, 68, Sturgis, died June 25, 2008, at Rapid City Regional Hospital.
Visitation will be Thursday from noon until 9:00 p.m. with the family present from 6 to 8:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Funeral services will be held Friday, June 27, 2008, at 11:30 a.m. at the First Wesleyan Church in Sturgis with Pastor Dwight Peterson officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery.
Jack was born in Custer, SD, on February 24, 1940, to Clifford and Dorothy (Olson) Crowser. The family moved to Tilford and later to Sturgis where Jack graduated from Sturgis Brown High School. He enlisted in the US Navy and served his country from 1958 until his honorable discharge in 1962. Jack returned to Sturgis where he worked with his dad who owned Cliff's Painting Service. Jack eventually took over the business and continued painting until his retirement.
Jack married Marlyn Dahlquist in Sturgis on February 27, 1965. They lived and raised their family in Sturgis.
He was a board member for Serenity. Jack was an avid bowler. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and dedicated a lot of his time to being with his family. Jack was always there for anyone who was in need. He served his Lord well.
Survivors include his wife, Marlyn Crowser, Sturgis; two sons, Judson Crowser and his fiancee', Sheri Hershey and Coy (Shelly) Crowser, all of Sturgis; two special sons, Jody (Cathy) Grubb, Belle Fourche, and Les Albertson, Sturgis; three brothers, Jim Crowser, Sturgis, Lyle (Holly) Crowser, Rapid City, and Linn Crowser, Sioux Falls, SD; seven sisters, Ann Ehlers, Sturgis, Betty Jo (Kay) Beckwith, Larned, KS, Dixie (Mike) Larsen, Sturgis, Bonnie Lehmann, Peggy (Bob) Hauk, and Penny Crowser, all of Rapid City, and Tami (Darrel) Hatzenbuhler, Sturgis; five grandchildren, Kyle Grubb, Kamber and KaSandra Crowser, and Daniel and Taya Crowser; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Voldey "Pappy" and Rosalie Dahlquist, Sturgis; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, two infant children, and one sister, Darlene Kinyon.
A memorial has been established.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Audrey Stenseth

January 21, 1916 - June 23, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Saturday, June 28, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.

 

Audrey N. Stenseth, 92, Sturgis, died Monday, June 23, 2008, at Sturgis Regional Hospital. Following her wishes, her body has been cremated.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Rev. Michael Fox officiating. Burial will be at a later date at the Ludlow Cemetery.
Audrey McCurdy Stenseth was born January 21, 1916, on a farm near Ludlow, SD, to Carl and Goldie (Luce) McCurdy. She was raised on her parent's farm near Ludlow. She married Bert Stenseth in 1933 and lived in Buffalo before moving to Sturgis in 1961. Her independence, hard work, and self-sufficiency enabled her to live a quiet life with pride and dignity. Her home spun qualities inspired confidence and well being in those who lived as her relative, friend, and neighbor. It's been said she was like a mother and role model to those who lived near her at Key City Manor apartments, where she lived for 25 years. She then moved to Key City Retirement Home in September 2005 where she received loving care.
Audrey was a volunteer at the motorcycle rally meals program sponsored by Grace Lutheran Church. She was also active at the senior citizen's store and the local blood drive. The community in turn, has been very helpful to her.
She is survived by a son, Carroll Stenseth, his wife, Marcy, one grandson, and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one son, Kyle K. Stenseth; her husband, Bert; and one granddaughter, Susan.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Kenneth D. Anderson

November 6, 1932 - June 18, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday, June 23, 2008, at 9:00 a.m.

 

Kenneth David Anderson, 75, Newell, navigated his final sortie peacefully on June 18, 2008, surrounded by his loving family in Piedmont, SD.
Visitation will be Sunday from noon until 9:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis with a rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel.
Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, June 23, 2008, at 9:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newell with Father Arnold Kari officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard will be held at Noon at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.
Kenny was born on November 6, 1932, to Carl D. and Olive C. (Mitchell) Anderson in Newell, SD, and was one of seven children. Kenny spent his youth on the family homestead south of Newell, learning the value of hard work and excelling in academics and athletics. He scored 19 touchdowns during his senior season of six-man football at Newell High School, a record that still stands today. It was in Newell where Kenny met the love of his life, Mary Kinghorn, where they were crowned as the first-ever Christmas Ball royalty in 1949. He graduated from high school before volunteering for the Air Force's Aviation Cadet Program in 1953. Kenny served his country around the globe until he married his Christmas Ball Queen, Mary, on April 30, `1960, in Huntington Park, CA. Mary was an incredible life partner who moved Kenny and the household 13 times in 18 years, provided loving support, and above all, was a mother to their four boys. Kenny served his nation in combat, navigating 110 missions over North Vietnam from 1967-68, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for gallantry under enemy fire. Other accomplishments include completing Air War College, duty at the National Military Command Center at the Pentagon, and finishing his 26-year Air Force career as the Director of Operations of the 57th Air Division at Minot AFB, ND.
Kenny was very active in retirement, serving as Quartermaster of Post 5807 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Newell, earning degrees in carpentry and cabinetmaking from Western Dakota Vocational Tech in Sturgis, and spending time with his immediate and extended families. He also participated in Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association activities and coached many of his boys' sports teams.
Kenny was comforted and cared for during his illness by his son, Scott, and daughter-in-law, Lori, who filled his final days with loving care and support.
Kenny is survived by his sisters, Mary Hade of Rapid City, Esther Fischer of Rhinelander, WI, Judy Gretschmann of Pierre, SD, and Jane Friedel of Sturgis; his sons and their spouses, Mike and Janet of Colorado Springs, CO, Terry and Pam of Honolulu, HI, Greg and Jennifer of Shorewood, WI, and Scott and Lori of Piedmont, SD; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary; his father and mother, Carl and Olive; his brother, Dale Anderson; and his sister, Catherine Satzinger.
A memorial has been established to St. Mary's Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newell.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Wayne L. Ryan

August 2, 1931 - June 17, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday, June 23, 2008 at 2:00 p.m.

 

Wayne L. Ryan, 76, Lead, died Tuesday, June 16, 2008, at the Fort Meade VA Medical Center.
Visitation will be 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis on Saturday, June 21.
Graveside committal services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2008, at the Mountain Lawn Cemetery near Lead, with Pastor Steve Agan officiating.
Wayne was born August 2, 1931, at Elmore, SD, in Spearfish Canyon just minutes after his identical twin brother, Duane Weslie Ryan, to Ralph and Lillian (Walker) Ryan. At the age of 16, Wayne and Duane followed their father to work for the Burlington Railroad. Duane died in an accident at the age of 18 in 1949. The family lived in the Kirk area near Lead.
Wayne joined the US Army at the age of 20 in 1951. He took his Basic and Infantry training at Ft. Jackson, SC. He served 13 months in Japan and Korea with the 6th Tank Battalion in the 24th Division. He was honorably discharged in 1958.
Wayne married Betty Mae Holt in Broadus, MT, on October 6, 1951. To this union, 4 children were born. They established their home in the Nevada Gulch area near Lead.
Upon returning home, he resumed his work with the C. B. & Q. Railroad at Deadwood until 1960 when he became employed in the timber industry. Since retiring in 1990, he and his sons have restored many antique tractors, trucks, and cars while residing at their home in the Nevada Gulch area with his wife of 56 years.
Wayne was a lifetime member of VFW Post 5969 in Deadwood. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and restoring guns and clocks. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Wayne was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and pet owner. He is survived by his wife, Betty Ryan, Lead; three sons, Wayne (Valerie) Ryan Jr., Spearfish, Steven (Margaret) Ryan, Lead, and John (Jolene) Ryan, Whitewood; one daughter, Gail Marie (Don) Clyne, Lead, SD; one brother, David (Wilma) Ryan, Lead; three sisters, Lillian Robinson, Citrus Heights, CA, Mary Davis, Roseville, CA, and Doris Rose, Eugene, OR; ten grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Connie Holt, Longmont, CO; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ralph and Duane; one granddaughter; and one great-granddaughter.
A memorial has been established to the Lord's Cupboard in Lead.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Verne Pickering Haas

February 1, 1914 - June 14, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Saturday, June 21, 2008, at 10:30 a.m.

 

Verne Pickering Haas, 94, died on June 14, 2008 at the home of his daughter in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
Verne will be buried in Pine Lawn Cemetery in Rapid City. Grave side services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 10:30 a.m.
Verne was born on February 1, 1914 at the Glenheim Farm home near Whitewood, South Dakota, the fourth son of Charles and Jennie Pickering Haas. Verne loved horses and cars as a child. Verne was home schooled through the eighth grade by his mother. Their home was the first private school in the state. One of Verne’s proudest possessions is his 8th grade diploma, signed by his mother just before she died. Verne graduated from Whitewood High School and went on to receive a diploma from the Hemphill Diesel Engineering School working with some of the first large diesel engines.
Verne married Thelma Mae Duncan on June 17, 1936 on top of Terry Peak in the Black Hills. They were married for 62+ years before her death in 1998. Their early married years were spent in Southern Nevada at the Desert Silver Mine where Verne worked as a mechanic. World War II shut down the mine and they moved to Utah where Verne was hired to build, and then maintain, the machinery at the Geneva Steel Mill near Provo, Utah. In those years, they had three children, Vernita, Donald, and Kerma. When the War ended, Verne followed his dream to build an auto repair shop and home in Rapid City. It wasn’t long before his former boss called, asking him to be Master Mechanic at the Cordero Mine in Northern Nevada. Verne worked his way up in Cordero Mining Company becoming Vice President of Operations before his retirement in 1971. He was instrumental in bringing electricity and television to Northern Nevada. Verne and Thelma both earned their pilot’s license while in Northern Nevada and had many fly-in breakfasts at the Cordero Mine.
Upon retirement, Verne and Thelma said they looked the world over and decided the best place to retire was back home in the Black Hills. Verne and Thelma built their dream home near Custer, South Dakota where the whole family enjoyed many years of family activities. Verne and Thelma helped develop the Custer County Courthouse Museum. Verne built a special display on the history of the Grange in the Black Hills, using family materials, for the High Plains Heritage Center Museum in Spearfish. His Mother was particularly proud of her membership in the Society of Black Hills Pioneers and Verne has carried on the tradition and passed on that pride to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Verne also worked with the Adams Museum in Deadwood, where his family had given many of their possessions. The Verne Pickering Haas Exploration Center was developed in the lower level of the Adams Museum telling the story of the Black Hills pioneers using the Charles and Jennie Haas family as an example. The Exploration Center includes a school room in memory of Verne’s wife, Thelma, where children’s programming for the Adams Museum is centered.
Verne is survived by his three children, Vernita and her husband, David Green of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; Donald and his wife, Alberta Haas of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; and Kay (Kerma) Haas of Reno, Nevada and his sister-in-law, Verna Hepler, and her son, Dennis and his wife, Francie. Nothing could brighten his face more than the mention or visit by one of his grandchildren, Brian Haas Green (who helped him tremendously during the last two years), Sarah Marnocha, Bill Haas, Rachel and her husband, Rod Soto, Jonathan Haas and his fiancé Penny Li, Sheilah and her husband, Sam Vorpahl, Dan Haas, and Heather Haas and his great grandchildren Jesse and David Marnocha, Austin, Emma, and Joseph Soto, and Zachary Haas, and he just learned that he would have a sixth great grandchild to be born next February to Sheilah and Sam Vorpahl.
Verne certainly lived out John Wesley’s “Rule for Christian Living”:
Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as ever you can!

He was known by everybody for his high moral and ethical principles that ruled his daily living.
Pastor Mike Schultz of First Wesleyan Church in Rapid City will lead the family and friends in worship at the graveside on Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. Reception will follow immediately at the First Wesleyan Church, 202 E. St. Francis St., Rapid City, SD. Memorials in Verne’s honor can be given to the Verne Pickering Haas Exploration Center at the Adams Museum in Deadwood, South Dakota.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Kenneth G. Weaver

June 20, 1924 - June 8, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Thursday, June 12, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.

 

Kenneth G. Weaver, 83, Whitewood, died Sunday, June 8, 2008, at the Fort Meade VA Medical Center. Following his wishes, his body has been cremated.
Graveside services will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2008, at 1:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery with Pastor Harold Delbridge officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard. Family and friends may gather at Kinkade Funeral Chapel prior to leaving for the cemetery.
Kenneth was born June 20, 1924, in Gregory, SD, to Lloyd and Sylvia (Christensen) Weaver. He attended school in Wanblee through the 9th grade. Ken started working at age 13 breaking horses, farming, and ranching. He enlisted in the US Army in 1943 and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1946. Ken married Christine Rayner in Hattiesburg, MS, on August 12, 1944.
Following his discharge, the family resided in Mississippi until they moved to Philip, SD, where they operated a gas station. The family moved to Gordon, NE, and later to Bear Creek, south of Interior. They eventually settled at Wanblee where they ranched. They left the ranch in 1967 and moved to Edson, Alberta, Canada. In the late 70's, they moved to Newell, SD. The family owned and operated the hardware store and Mid Town Café as well as ranching until the early 90's when they moved to Whitewood.
During their retirement years, Ken and Chris wintered for many years in Old Mexico and more recently in Arizona.
Ken is survived by his daughter, Becky (Ray) Hansen, Spearfish; one brother, Pat (Monica) Weaver, Wanblee, SD; two grandsons, Scott (Carla) Crowser, Whitewood, and Brett (Melanie) Crowser, Tucson, AZ; three great-grandchildren, Troy, Colt, and Cassie Crowser; close friend, Ray Crowser; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Chris in 2004; and two sisters, Vera Amiotte and Shirley Niefer.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Youth Rodeo.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Dale J. Timmons

August 27, 1918 - June 6, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Wednsday June 11, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.

 

Dale J. Timmons, 89, a retired Meade County rancher, died surrounded by family, Friday June 6 due to complications following surgery.
He was born in Sturgis, South Dakota, August 27, 1918 to Ellen Kathryn (Fahey) Timmons and Frank Timmons of Marcus, South Dakota. He attended grade school at the Simons School, a mile south of the family ranch, and graduated from high school in 1938 at St. Martins Academy in Sturgis, South Dakota.
Dale spent his life ranching on land which was first homesteaded around 1890 by his grandfather, Joe Timmons, and then added to by his parents, Frank and Nellie Timmons. Dale also added land to the ranch in his years living there. He stayed on the ranch during World War II to help his father keep it running while his brothers Tim and Tom served overseas in the war.
He married Gertrude McTighe of Maurine, South Dakota, January 8, 1944 in New Underwood, South Dakota and they made their home and raised their family on the ranch where he grew up. Dale and Gertrude were active in the Red Owl and White Owl communities and the Swinging Wheels Square Dance Club. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church at Red Owl until he moved to Rapid City where he was a member of the Cathedral Parish. Dale remained actively involved in the Marcus and White Owl area communities after Gertrude’s death in 1991, and even after his retirement and his move to Rapid City in 1997. He divided his time between Rapid City and the ranch, and in his later years he still looked forward to the calving and haying season and being on the land that he loved so much. He remained very active and put in full days of hard work when he went out to help his sons, Frank and John Timmons, who continued ranching on the home place after his retirement. He was still helping work cattle on horseback until 2001. He also helped with putting up the hay and taking care of the cattle until his death.
Joe Timmons planted the cottonwood trees, that surround the home place today, from saplings he carried by horseback from the Cheyenne River. Dale and Gertrude added a conservation shelter belt and an apple orchard in the early 1960’s, which became a great source of enjoyment and pride. Dale loved caring for the trees until his death.
Dale was content to stay close to home; however a memorable trip to California the year of his High School graduation with six other family members in their ’38 Ford, became family legend. His mother raised chickens to fund the trip, which almost ended in Buffalo, Wyoming when the fuel pump went out on the car. The $10 needed to replace it took a sizeable bite out of their $110 travel budget and they considered turning back. But they journeyed on and each time they stopped to refuel, someone would say “there goes another chicken.”
Survivors include three daughters Susan Timmons (Jim McCann) Rapid City, SD, Patricia Timmons Kasch, Algona, IA; Mary Timmons Olson Rapid City, SD; two sons Frank Timmons and John (Cathy) Timmons both of White Owl ,SD; two brothers Tim and Tom (Bernice) Timmons of Rapid City, SD. Dale is also survived by ten grandchildren and 9 great grand children who reside in SD and IA.
He was preceded in death his wife Gertrude, an infant daughter, infant sister, and by his parents.
Visitation will be 7 p.m. Tuesday June 10, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis. A Wake and Christian Prayer Service will begin at 7 p.m. at the Funeral Chapel.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at St. Francis Of Assisi Catholic Church in Sturgis with Father Arnold Kari and Father Michel Mulloy officiating. Burial will be at the White Owl Cemetery.
A memorial has been established to the White Owl Cemetery.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Eddie Ann Erskine

January 19, 1924 - June 5, 2008

 

Service to be held:

At A Later Date

 

Eddie Ann Erskine, 84, Sturgis, died Thursday, June 5, 2008 at the Ft. Meade VA Hospital.
She was born January 19, 1924 at San Antonio, TX, to Frank Russell and Katherine (Callahan) Ahr. Her parents died when she was very young. She received her education while in an orphanage in San Antonio, TX. At the age of 16 she moved to Fort Worth, TX, to work for her sister. She also found employment in a defense plant.
Eddie Ann joined the US Marine Corps on May 28, 1944 and served at Cherry Point, North Carolina. She met and married Jack Thomas Erskine at Newburn, North Carolina on April 26, 1946. After he was discharged from the Marine Corps he joined the Air Force and the couple traveled the world. They retired in Phoenix, AZ in 1962. Jack died in 1997 and Eddie Ann moved to Sturgis in 1999 where she has since made her home.
Survivors include her sons, Thomas Erskine II and his wife Mary Jo, Sturgis, Jack T. Erskine and his wife Theresa, Phoenix, AZ, Ronald Erskine, Phoenix, AZ; one daughter, Patricia Prokosch and her husband Earl, Phoenix, AZ; two brothers, Chester Ahr, San Antonio, TX, James Ahr and his wife Judy, Phoenix, AZ; three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Her extended family included Robert Geschke and wife Donna and 3 children of Janesville, WI.
She was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers, one sister.
As per her wishes, her body was cremated and no services are planned at this time.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Robert L. Voorhees

March 31, 1948 - June 1, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, June 6, 2008 at 9:30 a.m.

 

Robert Leland Voorhees Jr., died Sunday, June 1, 2008 at his residence at Bethany Home in Fargo, ND.
Committal services will be 9:30 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2008 at the Black Hills National Cemetery with Pastor Danny Winter officiating. Friends may gather at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis prior to leaving for the cemetery.
Robert L. “Bob” Voorhees, Jr., was born in Deadwood on March 31, 1948 at a time when his parents, Robert Sr. and Mary Jean were studying at Black Hills State Teachers College under the G.I. Bill. Complications at birth meant that Bob spent his entire life with many physical challenges. He met those challenges with courage and a keen wit. Bob grew up on the Sisseton, Fort Berthold, Rosebud and Standing Rock Indian reservations where his parents were educators. Bob spent his school years studying and making many friends. He graduated as salutatorian of his high school class in Mandaree, North Dakota in 1964. He worked at several jobs prior to moving to Fargo in 1975. A devout Christian, Bob developed many lifetime friendships in Fargo that kept him deeply connected to the community until his passing on June 1, 2008. Although his life was never easy, he was unafraid to talk with anyone and to pass good wishes to all. He ministered to both the able and disabled with humility and humor. He found great joy in the accomplishments of his nephews and niece. His parents preceded him in death. In addition to a lifetime of generosity, Bob leaves behind a brother, Richard (Alice) Voorhees of Glenwood Springs, Colorado; and two sisters, Mary Margaret Voorhees of Spearfish, SD, and Dorothy Voorhees of Rapid City, SD; three nephews, Bennet Voorhees, Matthew Plooster, and Jason Plooster, and one niece, Danielle Voorhees. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to Cornerstone Mission of Fargo, ND.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Jeanne Saathoff

January 14, 1931 - May 31, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, June 6, 2008 at 1:30 p.m.

 

Jeanne Frances Saathoff, 77, died May 31, 2008 in Austin, Texas, with her husband and children at her side. A Ph.D. who conducted research and taught within the University of Missouri Health Sciences System during the 1970s and 1980s, she died from complications of hepatic cancer that arose from hepatitis B, which she contracted while teaching in the hospital clinical setting.
Born Jeanne Frances Kovarik, she was the third child of eight. Jeanne and her twin sister were born on January 14, 1931 in Deadwood, South Dakota. Her twin sister died during infancy, and Jeanne was reared in the prairie town of Red Owl, in Meade County, South Dakota. She was the daughter of Rudolph Kovarik, who owned and operated a general store and post office, and Margaret Kovarik, who taught in the one-room schoolhouse that Jeanne and her siblings attended. An avid reader and exceptional student, Jeanne won the state spelling championship of South Dakota. A graduate of St. Martin’s Academy in Sturgis, SD, she received her nursing diploma in Sioux Falls, SD, prior to her marriage in 1953 to Joseph Francis Saathoff, an officer and flight engineer in the United States Air Force. They had seven children and lived in Rapid City, SD, Montgomery AL, Sacramento CA, Omaha NE, Columbia MO, Charlottesville VA, and most recently Austin, Texas.
After the births of her children, Jeanne completed a Bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she graduated Summa cum Laude. At the University of Missouri, she went on to obtain her Master’s degree and finally her Ph.D. While at the University of Missouri, Jeanne conducted research in childhood diabetes with Robert L. Jackson, M.D., who pioneered the development of modern methods of insulin treatment. During her academic career, Jeanne served as president of the University of Missouri Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society of Nursing.
Despite advancing complications of her hepatitis over the last two decades, Jeanne was a bright light to many friends and relatives. She was known as a fine cook, who graciously provided meals for large groups of friends and family. Jeanne’s continued dedication to her Catholic faith and to the service of others remains a source of inspiration to her family and friends. She and her husband were particularly dedicated to supporting the pro-life movement. Over the course of her life, her interest in music included skills at the piano and dedication to Gregorian chant, within the Schola of Saint Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlottesville, VA.
She was preceded in death by her twin sister, Joanne, and a daughter, Anne Therese, who both died in infancy. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Joseph F. Saathoff, in addition to their six children, including Daniel Saathoff, Joanne Saathoff Lupo and Mary Blackwell, all of Austin, TX. Her other surviving children include Patrick Saathoff, Ph.D., in Guelph, Ontario Canada; Gregory Saathoff M.D., in Charlottesville, VA; and Stephen Saathoff of Columbia, MO. Also surviving are her six brothers and sisters. Patricia Blote, Richard Kovarik, M.D., Wenzel Kovarik, M.D. and Joseph Kovarik, M.D., all reside in South Dakota. Her sisters Sister Carol Kovarik and Karen Patterson reside in Wyoming. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren who reside in Missouri, Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, and 19 nieces and nephews.
There will be a Rosary at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis, South Dakota at 7 pm Thursday evening, June 5, with a Friday 1:30 pm funeral Mass at the old St. Martin’s Chapel in Sturgis followed by burial at the Black Hills National Cemetery. The family requests that any donations be made in her name to the upkeep of the old St. Martin’s Chapel in Sturgis, South Dakota.
A memorial Mass is being planned for Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Columbia, Missouri and Charlottesville, Virginia at dates yet to be determined.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Delphy Irene Albrecht

February 15, 1927 - June 1, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.

 

Delphy Irene Albrecht, 81, Spearfish and formally of Sturgis, died peacefully Sunday, June 1, 2008 at the Rapid City Regional Hospital.
Graveside committal services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, June 12, 2008 at the Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis with Pastor Gordon Goldammer officiating. Friends may gather at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis prior to leaving for the cemetery. A memorial has been established to the Hospice of the Northern Hills.
Delphy was born February 15, 1927 at Leola, SD, to Matt and Alma (Steiger) Becker. She grew up in Leola. Delphy married Herb Albrecht, October 24, 1944 at Aberdeen. They lived in Aberdeen until 1960 when they moved to Lead. In 1985 they moved to Sturgis.
She was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church, Deadwood, and the Meade County Senior Center in Sturgis.
Survivors include her son Howie Albrecht and his wife Laurie, Lead; grandchildren, Kelli Moses-Dalfi and her husband Deron, Myrtle Beach, S. Carolina, Cory Albrecht, Gillette, WY, Jami Albrecht, Spearfish, SD; step granddaughter, Kristina Young, Spearfish; great grandchildren, Tia Marak, Jayden Albrecht, Jordyn Albrecht, Lauren Collins.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon Moses.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Mary M. Fischer

June 2, 1916 - May 29, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday, June 2, 2008 at 11:00 a.m.

 

Mary M. Fischer, 91, of Spearfish, SD, died on May 29, 2008 at the Dorsett Health Care Center in Spearfish.
Mary was born June 2, 1916, in Medina, ND, to Henry and Emma (Remmick) Oster. She was raised in the Streeter area. She married Reuben Fischer in Steele, ND, on March 14, 1937. They lived in Steele until 1940 when they moved to McKinsey, ND, to a farm. They lived there until 1960 when they moved to Sturgis where the couple has lived since. Mary worked at the Fort Meade VA Hospital.
Mary was a member of the First United Methodist Church and a morning circle. She was also a member of the Pine Cone Belles Extension Club.
Survivors include her husband, Reuben Fischer of Spearfish, SD; two sons, Dorven (Gerri) Fischer of Sturgis and Ron (Margie) Fischer of Sturgis; two daughters, Marilyn (David) Jerome, Portland, OR, and Ardene (John) Martin of Florence, KY; one sister, Reda Sitter of Spokane, WA; two son-in-laws, Chester Sherman of Fruitdale, SD, and Tony Werlinger of Sturgis; twenty-four grandchildren; thirty-five great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, JoAnn Sherman and Geraldene Werlinger; two daughter-in-laws; four brothers, and one sister.
Visitation will be Sunday from noon until 9:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel and will resume one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday. The family invites the public to a Sunday evening Prayer Service at the funeral chapel at 7:00 p.m.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 2, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Keith Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at Bear Butte Cemetery.
A memorial has been established.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Donna Joanne Schmeltzer

April 10, 1931 - May 28, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Saturday, May 31, 2008, at 1:00 p.m.

 

Donna Joanne Schmeltzer, 77, Black Hawk, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2008, at the Lippold Hospice Suite in Sturgis.
Following cremation, a memorial service for family and friends will be held at the Rose Garden in Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish on May 31, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Denzel Nonhof officiating.
Survivors include her husband, Lou, the love of her life for 61 years; children: Linda Corey, husband Cal; John Schmetlzer, wife Ann; Mike Schmeltzer, wife Paula. Grandchildren: Carrie Belawske, husband Kurt; Christine Johnson, Curt Corey, Amy Schmeltzer, Glen Schmeltzer, Stephen Schmeltzer, and Kristen Schmeltzer. Great-grandchildren: Matthew, Kelsea, Madison, and Evan; sister: Barbara Williams, husband Keith; brother: Richard, wife Rose; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Donna was born in Redfield, SD, on April 10, 1931. She graduated from Spearfish High School. Donna's most important job was being a loving wife, devoted mother and fun grandma.
Donna was a staunch democrat who loved to debate anyone naïve enough to think they had a fair chance.
She was preceded in death by her parents: Woods and Gladys (Goeken) DuBois.
The way she lived, the way she laughed, and the way she endured was an inspiration to anyone that knew her.
A memorial has been established for the Lippold Hospice Suite in Sturgis.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Arline Louise Ruby

January 28, 1943 - May 25, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, May 30, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.

 

Arline Louise Ruby, 65, passed away May 25, 2008, at her home in Belle Fourche, SD, with her husband, Leroy, and her son, Gary, at her side following a long battle with emphysemia.
Visitation will be Thursday from noon until 9:00 and Friday one hour prior to the services at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 30, 2008, at 1:30 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis.
Arline was born January 28, 1943, to Annie and Ray E. Johnston in Deadwood, SD. She was the youngest of seven children. She grew up in the Black Hills in the small towns at Rochford and Mystic, SD. She later married Leroy Ruby on May 26, 1961, in Sturgis and to this union, 3 children were born: Patricia, Gary, and Cindy.
She is survived by her husband, Leroy Ruby, Belle Fourche, SD; her children, Patricia (Gene) Lansdowne of Milford, IA, Gary Ruby of Belle Fourche, SD, and Cindy (Michael) Marten of Plover, WI. Arline has four grandchildren, Alexandria Hill, Chris Hill, Caleb Lansdowne, and Branden Bernard. Survivors also include two sisters, Marie Reman of Spearfish, SD, and Mary E. Shiefer of Rochford, SD; one brother, Arthur E. Johnston of Arcata, CA; a very special niece, Susan Young of Cheyenne, WY; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, and two brothers.
A memorial has been established to Hospice of the Northern Hills.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Donna Dee Lyons

July 28, 1925 - May 25, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, May 30, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.

 

Donna Dee Price Lyons was born July 28, 1925, in Clay Center, KS, to Charles and Eda (Bock) Price. She was the baby sister to her brother, Merle, her sister, Vivian (Suze), and some say she was quite the "brat." During the war, when Donna was in the 11th grade, they moved to Huntington Park, CA. Donna worked at Sears and her and her parents moved back to Sturgis in 1946.
Donna was a telephone operator until she married Tom Lyons January 18, 1948, at Belle Fourche, SD. Together, they started Lyons Oil Company and the Newell Gas Company. Donna was Tom's "personal assistant" while raising five children and assisting Tom with their passion of antique car restoration. Donna's hobbies included bowling playing bass guitar, which she took up at tender age of 63, and living and loving life with her family. Every Labor Day was a celebration! Lots of hard work went into preparing for that day. Later on, they also began and hosted the Newell Fiddle contest.
On Donna's 80th birthday, July 2005, her children and grandchildren hosted a party for her at Rafter J Resort in the Black Hills. Family members were decked out in white "Lyons Pride" t-shirts while Donna Diva wore a hot pink t-shirt with a big "80" on the back. Her blue eyes sparkled when she laughed, and she laughed a lot. Once, when asked about her life and any adverse days…she replied, "I don't believe I ever had a bad day."
Donna passed away peacefully May 25, 2008, at her home in Spearfish, SD.
Missing her are daughters, Lynn Dee (Les) Justice, Belle Fourche, SD, Casey (John) McKenzie, McLeansboro, IL, Mari Lue (Drew) Robinson, Bastrop, TX, Charlie (Ken) Benedick, Highlands Ranch, CO, and son, Thomas Joseph, Jr. (Pam) Lyons, Magnolia, TX.
Celebrating her life are her grandchildren, Lisa Kudlock, Tobi Morris, Cori Hubbard, Chad Beene, Deedra Watts, Meagan Ford, Marc McKenzie, Jarrod McKenzie, Lynelle Keil, Nikki Kay, Taylor Robinson, Valerie Koop, Brian Nelson, and Lindsay Nelson. Also, Donna's Angels, her great-grandchildren; Brandon, Colton, Carter, Michala, Hayden, Kaydee, Cheyenne, Chuckie, Hayden, Emmy Lue, Reagan, Ryleigh, Abbie, Caeden, Christian, Alycia, Riain, and one baby blessing soon to arrive. She was admired, loved and will be missed by numerous nieces and nephews and special friend, Dale Hardy.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom; an infant son, John; her special sister-in-law and friend, Betty Varland; and sister-in-law, Rena Webb.
WE HAVE BEEN SO BLESSED…THANK YOU, MOM.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 30, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Rev. Denzel Nonhof officiating. Inurnment will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.
A memorial has been established to Hospice of the Northern Hills.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Leona Heckenlaible

June 9, 1921 - May 24, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Saturday, May 31, 2008, at 1:00 p.m

 

Leona Misterek Heckenlaible went to meet her maker on Saturday, May 24, 2008, after a long courageous battle with cancer and macular degeneration.
Leona was born on June 9, 1921, eight miles south of Harrold, SD, to Richard and Tillie (Shutt) Misterek. Her neighbor lady delivered her as it was her doctor's birthday and he was out celebrating.
Leona was baptized and confirmed in the Harrold Evangelical Lutheran Church. She attended Hill Top Rural School for eight years, and graduated from Harrold High School in 1938. Leona then attended Northern State Teacher's College and started her teaching career in a rural school north of Harrold.
Her dream was to teach children and help prepare them for their future. She has kept in contact with many of her students. One of her students will sing at her funeral. Teaching was her passion and she continued teaching in rural schools for 25 years.
Leona was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church and a member of the Sturgis Senior Citizens when she lived in Boulder Canyon. She also belonged to the Pine Cone Belle's Extension and Craft Club where they made things for the less fortunate.
Leona and her husband, Ray, enjoyed traveling, gardening, woodwork projects, and numerous other craft projects. When she lost her sight, she had to move to Rapid City to independent living where she made many new friends. She always sought out the good in everyone and everything.
She is survived by her children, Richard Cole of Pierre, SD, Sherri Fischer and Susan Marske of Rapid City, Betty Flores of Friendswood, TX, and Monte Cole of Sturgis; stepdaughter, Marlis Meek of Sun City, AZ; ten grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; one sister-in-law, Ester Ohland of Minnesota; and one brother-in-law, LeRoy Lower of Rapid City.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray; one brother, John; and one sister, Shirley.
Visitation will be Friday from noon until 9:00 p.m. with the family present at 7:00 p.m. and will resume Saturday one hour prior to the service at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 31, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Rev. Michael Fox officiating. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery in Rapid City.
A memorial has been established for the Grace Lutheran Church in Sturgis.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Geraldene Mae Werlinger

March 11, 1945 - May 22, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Tuesday, May 27, 2008, at 10:00 a.m.

 

Geraldene Mae "Geri" Werlinger, 63, Sturgis, died Thursday, May 22, 2008.
Visitation will be Monday from noon until 9:00 p.m. with family present from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and a prayer service beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 27, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Keith Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at Bear Butte Cemetery.
Geri was born March 11, 1945, in Bismarck, ND, to Reuben and Mary (Oster) Fischer. She grew up on a farm near McKinzie, ND. When Geri was 15 years old, the family moved to Sturgis. Geri graduated from Sturgis High School.
Geri was married to Anton C. "Tony" Werlinger in Sturgis on June 27, 1964. Geri was a loving mother, wonderful grandmother, and a friend to all.
Survivors include her husband, Tony Werlinger, Sturgis; her parents, Reuben and Mary Fischer, Spearfish; three sons, Daryn (Lisa) Werlinger, Kevin (Dena) Werlinger, and Tony R. (Janelle) Werlinger, all of Sturgis; three daughters, Lori (Brian) Eggersgluess, Guam, Cari (Finn) Abrahamson, Sturgis, and Mari (Jay) Garcia, Germany; two brothers, Dorven (Gerri) Fischer, Sturgis, and Ron (Margie) Fischer, Sturgis; two sisters, Marilyn (David) Jerome, Oregon, and Ardene (John) Martin, Kentucky; brother-in-law, Chester (Irene) Sherman, Fruitdale, SD; grandchildren, Dan and Carrie, Susan and Mitch, Derek, Justin, Ashley, Tristen, Kendra, Sebastian, Liliana, Maximum, and Tennley; great-grandchildren, Aiden, Gavin, and Winona; and many special nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
She was preceded in death by one sister, JoAnn Sherman; one grandson, Daryn Werlinger, Jr.; and two sister-in-laws, Janet Fischer and Patty Fischer.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Margaret Louise Helms

August 5, 1930 - May 21, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, May 23, 3008, at 5:00 p.m.

 

Margaret Louise Helms, 77, Faith, SD, died Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at Rapid City Regional Hospital.
A Rosary and Christian prayer service will be held on Friday, May 23, 2008, at 4:30 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Faith. Mass of Christian burial will be at 5:00 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Father Arnold Kari officiating.
Burial will be Saturday, May 24, 2008, at 9:00 a.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis. Family and friends may gather at Kinkade Funeral Chapel Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. prior to leaving for the cemetery.
Margaret was born August 5, 1930, in Hettinger, ND, to Winifred (Kelleher) and Alfonso Cornella. She earned her nursing degree from St. Mary's University in Bismarck. Margaret worked as a Registered Nurse at the Faith Hospital until it closed, then she worked at Eagle Butte for 25 years. Margaret retired in 1976.
Margaret married Bruce Helms on September 24, 1951, in Bowman, MT.
She is survived by her eight children: three sons, Michael Helms, Faith, SD, Mark Helms, Douglas, WY, and Matt Helms, Faith, SD; five daughters, Shannon (Alan) McGinnis, Faith, SD, Sherri Reder, Rapid City, SD, Stephanie (Jeffrey) Weisbeck, Mesa, AZ, Holly (Mike) Haines, Maurine, SD, and Christine (Ken) Guenther, Douglas, WY; two sisters, Mary Scott, Sturgis, and Jean (Vaughn) Doerr, Lodgepole, ND; twenty grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bruce; three brothers, Ed Cornella, Joe Cornella, and Terry Cornella; and one sister, Eileen Campbell.
A memorial has been established.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Anna Mae Hendrickson

April 2, 1919 - May 19, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Tuesday, May 27, 2008, at 1:00 p.m.

 

On May 19, 2008, Anna Mae started a new adventure when she transitioned from this life to the next. She was aged 89 years, 1 month, and 18 days. She was born near the Sisk family homestead, three miles southeast of Vale, SD, on April 2, 1919. She was born during a time when Native American bands still camped nearby, during their travels between the reservations and traditional grounds, in the Black Hills area. Anna Mae was with us from the time of horse cavalry posts to the time of space travel. She was the fifth daughter of John C. and Nellie (Swisher) Sisk and joined sisters, Margaret, Ruth, Mary, and Billie. She was subsequently spoiled by her sisters and was the apple of her father's eye. Anna Mae was born with a veil membrane, which had to be quickly removed to save her life. The two aunts, in attendance, said this was a sign of clairvoyance. Anna Mae said that later she would have very clear premonitions and could find things others had lost. Her sons would agree that, without looking, she usually knew what they were up to.
When she was aged 6 months, John and Nellie decided to move the family to the big city of Sturgis. On the way, a bad winter storm came in and it turned bitterly cold. The chickens strapped to the wagon froze to death. Nellie bundled the girls up and put baby Anna Mae inside her shirt, under her heart, to keep her warm. It worked and all survived. A couple of years later, Anna Mae and her father, John were both stricken with small pox and nearly died. This was, ironically, when the rest of the globe was reeling from the influenza epidemic of 1918-1921. At age 6, Anna Mae was diagnosed with appendicitis and survived. She had spent so much time bed-ridden with the infection that she had to relearn how to walk. Having dodged the grim reaper 4 times in 6 years, Anna Mae grew and prospered with her family. Then came 1929 and the Great Depression. It is said that diamonds are formed with great pressure and heat. Indeed, Anna Mae had gone through a lot of tempering by age 10.
The 1930's saw Anna Mae grow into a beautiful young woman and she even survived the great Sturgis bank robbery. In 1936, she met a new kid at Sturgis High School who had just moved to town from Huron. His family had come to the Black Hills because it was the only island of green for about 500 miles. Their relationship would span parts of 7 decades. Melvin Hendrickson was a scrawny, tough kid who would become a boxer, soldier, teacher, father, and mentor. He was even the mayor of Sturgis for a while in the early 1950's, as Anna Mae played her role as first lady. 1940 would see them wed and both working for the Homecraft Bakery in Sturgis, he for $12 a week and she for $8 a week. Mel would often say he married her for her money.
Unfortunately, for their relationship, and the Japanese Empire, Mel was also a corporal in the SD National Guard's F Company, 109th Engineer Battalion. He spent the next 5 years in training and in combat in Burma.
After the war, they worked side by side as owners and operators of the Rainbow Milk Company in Sturgis. During this time, Mel also completed his degree at Black Hills Teacher's College and in 1951, started a teaching and counseling career at Sturgis High School.
Two sons were born to the union of Mel and Anna Mae: Lyle, the handsome one, and Linn, the smart one. Both sons reside in Sturgis and survive Anna Mae, along with Lyle's wife, Lea Ann; 7 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
When Mel left to join his comrades at Fiddler's Green on February 3, 1992, Anna Mae settled in as the family matriarch, historian, and arbiter. She gave love to all and cut slack for none. During these last years, she beat cancer twice and never complained once. All who knew her wish her well on her new voyage and thank God they shared this part of the journey with her.
Visitation will be Monday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. until service time at Kinkade Funeral Chapel.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 27, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Pastor John Tesnow officiating. Burial will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery.
A memorial has been established in Anna Mae's name for the Lippold Hospice Suite at Sturgis Regional Hospital. Those considering sending flowers may instead, if they wish, contribute to the memorial.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Lois Marion Mason

May 17, 1928 - May 21, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.

 

Our beautiful "Mother Bear" is gone. She left this life for the next at Heritage Estates in Gering, Nebraska, on May 21, 2008, with her children by her side. Her twenty year struggle with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis is over. She was one classy lady!
She was born May 17, 1928, in Greenfield, MA, to Everett L. and Marion E. (White) Burney. She graduated from Balboa High School in San Francisco, CA, in June of 1946 and married William E. McBride on August 22, 1946, in San Francisco, CA. To this union, six children were born. They later divorced.
On February 10, 1978, she married Dr. William L. Mason, Jr. in Miles City, MT, where they both worked for the VA Hospital; they later transferred and both worked at Ft. Meade, SD, until they retired.
She was a member of United Methodist Women, Past Worthy Matron Mato Paha Chapter #68 in Sturgis, SD, Ladies Naja Shrine Cowboy Unit, Daughters of the Nile, participated in work to support Shriners Childrens Hospital, past president of Sturgis Lions Club, and a member of Red Hat Society.
Quilting, reading, geneology and family reunions were some of the things she enjoyed and loved.
Surviving her are her children, Georgia (Wade) Gackle of Billings, MT, Sharon McBride of Athens, AL, Ruth (Vince) Tovey of Oxnard, CA, Ellen Combs (Ted B. Miller III) of Scottsbluff, NE, Marnie (Randy) Smeenk of Athens, AL, and Ed McBride (Lori Newson) of Miles City, MT; her sister, Helen Fairies of Klamath Falls, OR; her brother, William Lamson of Sunny Valley, OR; 15 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her brothers, Henry and Bruce Burney; and her husband, Dr. William L. Mason, Jr.
The family would like to thank the angels at Heritage Estates, The Village, Home Instead and Hospice for their tender and loving care of our Mother. We are forever grateful and will keep you in our prayers.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at 1:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Sturgis with Rev. Keith Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.
Memorials received will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and can be made to members of the family or Kinkade Funeral Chapel.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Cyril "Kelly" Charles Callahan

June 10, 1921 - May 17, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Friday, May 23, 2008 at 10:00 am

 

Cyril Charles "Kelly" Callahan, 86, died Saturday, May 17, 2008 at the Fountain Springs Health Care Center in Rapid City.
Visitation will be one hour prior to services on Friday at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, May 23, 2008 at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis with Fr. Bill Zandri officiating. Burial with military honors by the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard will follow at the Black Hills National Cemetery.
Kelly was born June 10, 1921 at Kinloss Township in Walsh County North Dakota. He was adopted at an early age by Mr. and Mrs. William F. Callahan. Kelly attended school through the 8th grade in North Dakota. He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps and worked in Farragut, ID until enlisting in the US Army. He served his country and was honorably discharged in 1939. He worked on a combine crew in Missouri and eventually worked his way back to North Dakota where he started working in sales for many years and won many awards.
Kelly met and married Marietta Budler at Mitchell, SD on May 15, 1958.
He retired in the early 70's in Rapid City and moved to Sturgis in 1976. Kelly was a volunteer for 55 years, serving the veterans in Rapid City and Fort Meade. He was a member of the Knight of Columbus, and the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard and the Cooties. He and his family enjoyed many years camping, hunting and fishing. "Kelly" loved South Dakota and the Black Hills.
Prior to his death Kelly moved to Spearfish 15 years ago.
Survivors include his wife Marietta Callahan, Spearfish; one son Charles Cyril Callahan and his wife Penny, Rapid City; one daughter, Rita Canton and her husband Chuck, Rapid City; one stepson Tom Miller and his wife Kaye, Mitchell, SD; also four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Kelly was preceded in death by his sister and brother.
A memorial has been established to the Columban Council #6341 of the Knights of Columbus.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Charles E Vansickel

October 16, 1922 - May 18, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Thursday May 22, 2008 at 2:30 p.m.

 

Charles Edward Vansickel, 85, passed away May 18, 2008, at his residence in Sturgis after a lengthy illness with cancer.
Charles was born at Tama, SD on October 16, 1922 to Oscar and Juanita (Lehman) Vansickel. He attended Tama School and graduated from Sturgis High School in 1940. He ranched with his parents near Opal.
On June 29, 1946, he and Hazel Short were united in marriage in Broadus, MT. Charles and Hazel ranched with his parents, while sometimes making their home in a sheep wagon. They purchased his Uncle Roy's ranch in 1947 near Opal and moved into their home where the twins joined them. There they raised their family of three daughters and two sons.
He helped establish the Opal Community Hall, Opal Fire Department, and served on the Howell, Lemmon Butte and Opal School board for 16 years. Charles enjoyed and worked hard on the ranch. He liked spending time with his grandkids and great-grandkids. Grandpa's four-wheeler rides were a hit. He walked many miles with a grandchild in his arms.
Blessed with sharing Charles' life are his wife, Hazel; three daughters; Judy (Ronald) Joens , Black Hawk, Janet Vansickel of Sturgis, Marie Vansickel of Sturgis ; one son, Charles (Chuck) Vansickel of Opal; three grandchildren Edward (Lora) Joens of Black Hawk, Danelle Vogel of Gillette, Wy, and Sammi Vogel of Black Hawk; five great – grandchildren Selena Vogel, Donald, Heather and Jessica Joens of Black Hawk and Kylan Kanard of Gillette, Wy; and one brother Norman ( McGee) Vansickel of Spearfish
He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Merle.
Visitation will be at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, May 21 from noon until 9:00 pm. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 22nd at 2:30 pm at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Harold Delbridge and Rev Denzel Nonhof officiating. Burial will follow at the Bear Butte Cemetery.
A memorial has been established to the Hospice of the Northern Hills, First Presbyterian Church in Sturgis, and the Delbridge ministry.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Casey James McFarland

March 28, 1988 - May 15, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Thursday May 22, 2008 at 10:30 a.m.

 

Casey James McFarland, 20, Piedmont, was lifted to our lord May 15, 2008 at his home.
A Service of Comfort for the immediate family and dearest friends will be held at Piedmont Valley Lutheran Church at 7 pm on Wednesday, May 21. Following this service at 7:30 p.m. friends and family will gather in the sanctuary for a time of sharing, song and prayer. All who loved Casey are welcome.
Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. at the Piedmont Valley Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 22, 2008 with Pastor Carol Mapa officiating. Private Inurnment will follow that evening at the Little Dane Cemetery near St. Onge.
Casey was born March 28, 1988, at Rapid City, to Kenneth and Kelli (Courtney) McFarland. He grew up on the family ranch East of Piedmont and attended school at Stagebarn Elementary. He graduated from Sturgis Brown High School in 2006, he was active in choir and drama during his school years. He was attending Western Dakota Tech for Computer Networking. Casey loved to work with computers and was very interested with the technology we have in our world today.
Survivors include his parents, Kenny and Kelli McFarland, Piedmont; one sister Courtney and her husband GB Fischbach, Sturgis, SD; grandparents, Russell and Norma Carver, Belle Fourche and Gregor and Ardith McFarland, Sturgis.
A memorial has been established to Wellspring in Rapid City.


:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Marlene Kay Eide

March 20, 1947 - May 15, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Monday May 19, 2008 at 1:00 p.m.

 

Marlene Kay Eide, 61, Sturgis, died Thursday, May 15, 2008 at the Sturgis Regional Senior Care Center.
Visitation will be noon until 9 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis with the family present from 6 until 8 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 1 p.m. Monday, May 19, 2008 at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Sturgis with Fr. Kerry Prendiville officiating. Burial follows at the Pine Slope Cemetery in Belle Fourche.
A memorial has been established to the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
Marlene was born March 20, 1947 at Belle Fourche, SD, to Palmer and Gustina (Nedella) Eide. She attended the Chase rural school and school in Nisland and Horse Creek. After completing her education at the Black Hills Workshop in Rapid City she worked in food services at the Fort Meade VA Hospital for a time before retiring in the mid 1980's.
Marlene was a volunteer at the Meade County Senior Center for many years. She enjoyed crocheting and making crafts.
She lived in Belle Fourche for a short time before returning to Sturgis.
Survivors include her brother Ken (Bev) Eide, Nisland; sister Karin (Ed) Johnson, Syracuse, NE; also numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry:

 

     
   
     

Jayne Dodson

July 5, 1943 - May 15, 2008

 

Service to be held:

Wednesday May 21, 2008 at 10:00 a.m.

 

Elizabeth "Jayne" Dodson, 64, Sturgis, died Thursday, May 15, 2008 as a result of an automobile accident near Sturgis on I-90.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis. A prayer service will begin at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Sturgis.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at the First United Methodist Church in Sturgis with Pastor Keith Nelson officiating. Burial follows at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.
Elizabeth Jayne Allen was born July 5, 1943 at Deadwood, South Dakota to Sidney and Fern (Nelson) Allen. Jayne graduated from Spearfish High School in 1961 and married Glenn Arthur Dodson Jr on January 29th 1962 at the Lutheran Church in Lead. Art was in the Air Force and they traveled the world to various postings. They were stationed for a number of years at Yakota Air Force Base in Japan before returning to the US to raise a family.
After her husband was diagnosed with MS, Jayne worked full time, raised four children, took care of her ailing husband and attended Black Hills State College where she earned an associates degree in computer programming.
Jayne retired in 2005 from her job at Black Hills Corporation and soon after became involved with the Foster Grandparent Program at Sturgis Elementary School. She remained active in many programs there until her death.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Roger, infant son Robert, and her husband.
Jayne is survived by her sons Daniel Dodson, Sturgis and Luke Dodson, Seattle, WA; daughters Pam and her husband Jeremy Jarnecke, Prescott, AZ, and Nicole Dodson, Sioux Falls; her brother Richard and his wife Esther Allen, Forest Lake, MN, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless foster grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established for the new Sturgis Elementary School library.

:Send Flowers::Sign/View Registry