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The infant son of Mr. and Mrs. G. N. Potter living three miles northwest of the city died Feb. 27 and was buried in Rosehill Cemetery last. Rev. C. W. Langdon of the Methodist church officiated.
Source: The Citizen-Republican (Scotland, SD) ~ March 6, 1919
William D. (Bill) Pier, age 80, of Avon, passed away in his home on Wednesday, August 31, 2016.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, September 3 at 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Avon, SD with Pastor Lorney VanGerpen officiating. Private family burial services will be held prior to the funeral service at the First Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. A visitation will be held Friday with family present from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon is in charge of arrangements.
Bill was born on February 4, 1936, to Ralph and Mae (Anderson) Pier in Yankton. Bill grew up in Avon, SD; and graduated from Avon High School. He graduated from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion where he was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. Bill married Sandra Stevens Pier on March 28, 1958. They moved to DeSmet, SD, were Bill worked in the bank for four years. Bill and Sandra moved back to Avon in 1963 to help with the family owned Community Bank.
Bill was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather, who would do anything for his family. He loved hunting and fishing, attending Avon and USD athletic events and working around home. Bill was active in the Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce. He was a lifetime member of the First Presbyterian Church and was an active Elder. Bill loved his community and all his Community Bank customers.
Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra of Avon, son, Mark and Roxie Pier of Crofton, NE, Tom Pier of Crofton, NE, Tony Pier of Sioux Falls, SD; daughter, Cindy and Jim Helling of Mt. Vernon, SD, Katie and Matt and August Nebelsick of Lead, SD, Josh Helling, of Sioux Falls, SD; Daughter Sally and Jay Weber of Avon, SD, Nathan and Krystal Weber of Sioux Falls, SD, Jen and Dave Blais of Fargo, ND; daughter, Tracy and Andrew Lukkes, Alta, IA, Cassie and Ryan Dirks of Sioux Falls, SD, Zach Lukkes of Alta, IA; daughter, Holly and Guy Helmer of Ames, IA, Emily, Kayley and Kelli Helmer of Ames, IA and sister, Jackie Parker of Santa Barbara, CA.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, brother and two grandchildren.
Memorial bequests may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Avon.
WITHITA, Kan. - Thomas “Tom” J. Peterka, 58, Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School instructor, died Saturday, April 18, 2009.
Visitation with the family will begin at 6:00 P.M. with Rosary to follow at 8:00 P.M., both Wednesday, April 22, Downing & Lahey Mortuary West. Funeral service, 2:00 P.M., Thursday, April 23, St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Survivors: Wife, Martha; sons, Aaron and Andrew of Wichita; brothers and sisters, Delores Young and Larry Peterka of Nebraska, Don Peterka and Rita Peterka of South Dakota; many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.
Tom will be missed by family, friends, colleagues and students.
Memorials established with Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, 313 S. Market, Wichita, KS 67202 and American Cancer Society, 818 N. Emporia, Suite 100, Wichita, KS 67214.
Rita J. Peterka, age 58 of Yankton passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, August 23, 2015 at the Avera Yankton Care Center, Yankton.
Memorial Services will be 10:00 AM, Friday, August 28, 2015 at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Yankton with Rev. Dani Jo Ninke officiating. Inurnment will be in the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Yankton. Visitations will be from 5-7 PM, Thursday, August 27, 2015 at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home and Crematory, Yankton with a 6:30 PM Prayer service and video tribute. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church.
Rita was born on July 14, 1957 in Yankton, SD to Edward and Agnes (Horacek) Peterka. She was raised in Yankton and graduated from Yankton High School. On September 1, 1974, Rita was united in marriage to Brad Cuka and to this union three children were born: Carla, Don, and Dan. From 1973-1975, she was employed by Dale Electronics and from 1975-1978, she worked at M-Tron Ind. For over 20 years, she was employed by Morgen Manufacturing and then for the next several years, she worked as a manager at Morgen Federal Credit Union. During her part time employment at Wal-Mart from September 1991 to 1996, she was a Customer Service Manager. The next five years, Rita was employed by Southeast Job Link before joining L & M Radiator in 2007, where she worked until the time of her death as a Human Resources Representative.
She was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church.
Those who will cherish her memory are her children: Carla (Brad) Kopp of Tyndall, SD and Don (Melissa) Cuka, Yankton, SD; 10 grandchildren: Troy, John, Tyler and Makayla Kopp, Porter, Sienna, Brenna and Kutter Cuka and Abigail and Alex Cuka; brothers, Larry (Stella) Peterka of Wausa, NE and Donald Peterka of Fort Meade, SD; sister, Delores Young of Magnet, NE; sister-in-law, Martha Peterka of Wichita, KS and nieces and nephews.
Rita was preceded in death by her son, Dan Cuka (December 4, 2005), her parents, Edward and Agnes Peterka, a stillborn son (1974), maternal and paternal grandparents, and a brother, Tom (April 18, 2009).
Funeral service for Lawrence "Larry" Peterka, age 63, of Wausa, Nebraska, will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 23 at Thabor Lutheran Church in Wausa. Reverend Ron Youngerman will officiate, with burial at a later date. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Brockhaus Funeral Home in Wausa is in charge of arrangements.
Larry died Wednesday, July 20, 2016 at Avera Majestic Bluffs Hospice House in Yankton.
Lawrence "Larry" M. Peterka, son of Edward and Agnes (Horacek) Peterka, was born September 29, 1952, at Yankton. Larry attended school at Peterka District 46 and graduated from Tabor High School in 1970. On March 9, 1991, he was united in marriage to Stella Zurcher at Thabor Lutheran Church in Wausa, Nebraska.
Larry worked as a cook at the Human Service Center in Yankton from 1970 until 1974. He then farmed with his Dad for four years and then in 1981, Larry started working at a feedlot in Bloomfield. In 1985, he began employment with C.I. Lindquist Farms.
Larry was a member of Thabor Lutheran Church and served on the church council.
He loved farming and Czech music and enjoyed RFD TV and county fairs.
Larry is survived by his wife, Stella of Wausa, Nebraska; brother, Don Peterka of Fort Mead, South Dakota; sister, Delores Young of McLean, Nebraska; daughter-in-law, Peggy (Jeff) Bormann; and son-in-law, Paul (Patty) Kasulka.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Agnes Peterka; brother, Tom; and sister, Rita.
Please direct memorials to: Avera Majestic Bluffs Hospice House, 2111 W. 11th Street, Yankton, SD 57078.
Verlyn “Red” Pudwill was born May 31, 1937 in Avon, SD, the son of Herb and Henrietta (Johnson) Pudwill. He died Sunday, July 10, 2016 at the Good Samaritan Society in Tyndall.
Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 13 at the Friedensburg Bible Church, 30992 406th Ave, Avon, SD. Burial is in the Friedensburg Cemetery, with Military Honors. Visitation will be an hour prior to services at the church. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of arrangements.
Red graduated from Avon High School in 1955. Following graduation, Red enlisted in the US Army and spent most of his time in the Hawaii area. After his honorable discharge, he worked at Gage Brothers in Sioux Falls, SD for 41 years. After retiring, they moved to Mitchell and Red worked as an apartment manager for Skogen Company.
Red was united in marriage to Ellen Ratzlaff on May 16, 1959.
Red enjoyed working the ground at the cabin and pole barn. He especially enjoyed his hunting trips to Harding County with Byron to hunt deer and antelope. He also loved to pheasant hunt with his lab Sammy. He taught all his grandchildren to play pinochle, Chinese checkers, and how to make homemade ice cream. During the holidays, Red loved having his whole family around the table enjoying big meals and playing games. Red loved football season and was often seen and heard on the sidelines at the Bon Homme football games.
Thankful for having shared his life are his wife Ellen of Springfield; son Byron and Wife Ginger Pudwill of Springfield; daughter Julie and husband Carson Larson of Columbia; grandchildren: Katie (Pudwill) and husband Brandon Williams and their son Harvey Red Williams, Kelsey (Pudwill) and husband Josh Irish and their son Caden Irish, Emily Larson and fiance´Tom Sternhagen, Wyatt Larson and Chandler Larson; brother Burnell Pudwill of Winnipeg, Manitoba; and many relatives and friends.
Red was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Russ and Don Pudwill.
Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 2, 2013 at the Assumption Catholic Church in Dante, with burial in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2 to 4 at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Wagner, followed by a Rosary/Wake service at 6 p.m. at the church.
Dorothy Bernice Pekas was born July 29, 1921 at Scotland, South Dakota, the daughter of James and Stella (Dvorak) Placek.
She died Monday, April 29, 2013 at Avera St. Benedict Health Center in Parkston. Dorothy attained the age of 91 years and nine months.
Dorothy attended rural school in the Scotland area. She grew up on a farm and before she was married, worked at a number of homes helping families in Yankton, Mitchell, Scotland and Wagner areas.
She was united in marriage to Joe L. Pekas, Jr. on January 20, 1947 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Vodnany, SD. After she was married she worked on the farm with her husband Joe. Joe died August 8, 1996.
Dorothy will be remembered for her enjoyment of sewing, embroidering, crafts and cooking. She was a very loving and caring person who always put her family first. Some of Dorothy's and Joe's favorite times were spent with their grandchildren and great grandchildren. They both had a special place in their hearts for their pets.
Dorothy was a member of Assumption Catholic Church and St. Mary's Altar Society.
Thankful for having shared her life are her three daughters: Vicki Tripp Douglas and husband John Douglas of Rapid City; Sheryl and husband Steve McClure of Mitchell; and Beverly Pekas of Yankton; eight grandchildren: Stacy and Scott Bowman; Brian and Julie McClure; Amy and Shawn Crago; Aaron Pekas; Jason and Taylor Tripp; Ryan Tripp and fiance´ Stephanie; Eric Tripp and fiance´ Kile; Nathan Tripp and Jamie; 14 great grandchildren; sister and brother -in-law, Lucille and husband Ed Cihak of Wagner; several nieces and nephews; and special friend and cousin Virginia Petrik.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Joe L. Pekas, Jr.; grandchild, Perry Tripp; sisters: Hattie Kocourek and her husband, Emil; Mabel Mikuska and her husband, William; sister-in-law Helen and husband Adolph Cihak; parents, Stella and James Placek; mother and father-in-law, Mary and Joe Pekas, Sr.
Larry's Service ~ June 3, 2013 (source: Everyday Bon Homme)
Larry Pelton was born on May 16, 1944 to Wayne and Viola (Deurmier) Pelton in Avon, South Dakota. He graduated from Avon High School in 1962. On July 10, 1970, Larry was united in marriage to Charmaine Muller in Avon.
Throughout his life, Larry was a hard worker with a strong work ethic. For several years, he drove a dairy truck out of Mitchell and would pick milk up from local producers. He also worked for David Dystra at Dyke’s Station in Avon. In 1978, Larry received his official sales tax license and was able to open his own tire business, Larry’s Service. For 38 years, Larry was devoted to providing efficient, quality work at affordable rates for his ever increasing crowd of customers. He was known far and wide for the work he did, such as fixing leaks, selling new and used tires, and replacing and mounting tires. His work was trusted and his customers appreciative. Larry became a friend to everybody.
Larry was knowledgeable and interested in many subjects. He loved fishing and hunting. He was proud of his large gun collection and continually added to it. He enjoyed Clint Eastwood movies and watching sports. He was also a dedicated, uncompromising Chevy man.
Though Larry suffered from illness for the past couple years, he never wanted to complain. His family finds comfort that one week prior to his passing, he received the Salvation message of the Christian faith. On Sunday, June 5, 2016 at the age of 72, Larry was welcomed into Heaven. He is survived and remembered by his wife of nearly 46 years, Charmaine Pelton of Avon; sisters: Evelyn Knoll of Tyndall, Myrtle Reiff of Avon, Betty (Lawrence) Sandau of Tripp, and Carol (Lattie) Draughon of Springfield; brother Ron (Linda) Pelton of Avon; sister-in-law Judy Pelton; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Calvin "Charlie" Pelton and Don Pelton, and brothers-in-law Edgar "Curly" Knoll and Ray Reiff. "Truly, Truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgement, but has passed from death to life." ~ John 5:24
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 9 at Danzig Baptist Church in rural Avon. A private family burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, gifts of funds may be given in Larry’s memory and will be directed to the memorial of the family’s choice. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Goglin Funeral Home of Tyndall.
Wayne Pibal, Sr. passed away Tuesday, March 29, 2016 at his residence under hospice care.
Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 1 at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Chapel, Yankton, with Rev. Rod Veldhuizen officiating. Burial will be in the Yankton Cemetery, Yankton. Visitations will begin at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 31 at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, with a Scripture service, video tribute, and memory sharing at 7:00 p.m. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Honorary pallbearers are Eugene List, Dale List, David Pibal, Melvin Pibal, John Pibal, Tom Pibal, Richard Pibal, Gerald Pibal, Alan Pibal, Gary Kuchta, Randy Bouska, Harlan Latimer, Bob Jensen, Lloyd Gehm, Bob Moderegger and Dale Hacecky.
Wayne Pibal was born to Charles and Lillian (Hale) Pibal on January 24, 1941 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton. Wayne lived in Tabor, SD until 1946 and then grew up on a farm near Wagner, SD until 1954. When his family moved to a farm near Scotland, SD, he attended his first three years of high school in Scotland and also worked for Norman Barger. He graduated from Yankton High School in 1959. After graduation, he worked for Bevers Gas Station. In 1960, he began working at Morgan Manufacturing.
On June 21, 1960, Wayne married Gloria List in Pipestone, MN and to this union, Wayne Pibal, Jr. was born. They made their home in Sioux City, IA while Wayne worked at Wilson Trailer. In July 1961, they returned to Yankton. He worked for the City of Yankton Cemetery and later became a mechanic for the City of Yankton. Wayne then started Wayne’s Welding and Repair which evolved into Pibal Construction, building Chief steel buildings from as far north as the Canadian border in North Dakota down to Lincoln, NE. Wayne was a state certified welder and worked on projects in Vermillion and for the University of South Dakota, as well as the Human Services Center. In 1987 Wayne went to work at Truck Trailer until his retirement in 2007.
In his spare time he made trailers, barrel stoves and band saws. If something was broken, Wayne could fix it. Wayne was a favorite local stock car driver from 1963 to 1971. He raced on tracks in Norfolk, Hartington, Niobrara and Crofton, NE, as well as in Yankton, Wagner and Sioux Falls, SD and in Sioux City, IA. Wayne was an avid hunter, gardener, snowmobiler and biker. Wayne enjoyed boating and swimming.
Wayne is survived and remembered by his wife, Gloria of Yankton, SD; daughter-in-law, Lisa of Yankton; mother-in-law, Martha List of Yankton, brothers-in-law, Eugene (Joyce) List of Yankton, Dale (Eileen) List of Pierre, SD and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Eugene List; his son, Wayne Pibal, Jr. and his niece, Lesa Nicholls.
Private family memorial services are being held for Janice “Corky” Peterson, 71, of Springfield. There will be a gathering of relatives and friends at 1 PM, Saturday, January 9, 2016 at the Community Center in Springfield. Memorials will be directed to a memorial fund set up at the Community Bank in Avon to be directed to the charities of Corky’s wishes.
Corky was born June 22, 1944 at Vermillion, SD, the daughter of Johna and Eileen (Millage) Delaney. She died Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton.
Corky received her her high school education in Wakonda and attended college at USD/Springfield and USD/Vermillion, receiving a BA in Education.
Corky married Jack Peterson on May 15, 1992 at Tyndall. She was a school teacher and taught in South Dakota and Nebraska for over 40 years.
Corky will be remembered for her love of doing for others, knitting, crocheting, canning and gardening.
Thankful for having shared her life are her husband Jack of Springfield; 7 children: Amy J. Montefering of Yankton, Ramona R. (Andy) Olson of Rapid City, Michael M. Boschker of Rapid City, Wendy S. (Brian) Kemnitz of Gayville, Ann M. Layman of Portland, OR, Jack Peterson Jr. of Springfield and Wayne (Barbie) Peterson of Graysmont, OR; 18 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; 2 sisters: Phyllis Bride of NE and Beverly (Ken) Sorenson of Irene.
Corky was preceded in death by her parents, 2 sisters: Bettejean Sublet and Marilyn Riehle; son-in-law Dan Layman and father-in-law Oscar Peterson.
Richard Charles Patterson, 72, Brandon, died Friday, November 20, 2015, at the Dougherty Hospice Home in Sioux Falls.
Private family services will be held at a later date.
Richard Charles Patterson was born August 27, 1943, in Greenfield, IA to Frank and Opal (Olson) Patterson. Upon his graduation from high school, Richard joined and served in the Iowa National Guard for 6 years. On August 28, 1966, Richard married Peggy Finck and the couple moved to Santa Maria, CA. To this union, two children were born. He worked in the area transporting mobile homes until 1976, when he moved the family back to Tyndall, SD to raise the children in a safer environment. Richard worked as a police officer and also a cable company technician and management until he retired in 2009. Richard resettled in Brandon to be close to his daughter and grandchildren. The grandchildren were important to him and he loved spending holidays surrounded by his family.
Richard loved the outdoors and hunting, camping, boating and waterskiing were all favorites of his. He had several mounts of deer, bear, antelope, and turkey. He also bowled in the winter time with his family. Richard was also well known in Tyndall for his woodworking shop where he made Christmas cut-outs and lighted them. He made many for other people and for around his house. The family would put out 10 to 15 thousand lights around their yard and fence. They were even featured on KELO TV for their light show.
Richard will be deeply missed by his children, Heath (Elizabeth) Patterson, Washburn, ND and Melissa (Michael) Labahn, Brandon, SD; four grandchildren, Owen, Kari, Madelyn, and Maria; and one brother, Gerald Patterson, Des Moines, IA.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents.
Ronald Bud Potter, 86, Sturgis, SD passed away Thursday, October 15, 2009 at Ft. Meade VA Medical.
Bud was born to Oscar and Marie (Talcott) Potter on May 15, 1923 at Witten, SD. Bud was raised on a farm south of Colome, SD and was married to Viola Florence Ridgway on June 23, 1943. In 1944, Bud was drafted into the US Army and served as a rifleman in WW II Pacific Theater until his separation in February 1946.
After discharge, he started farming again in Bon Homme County until his health in 1977 required a new occupation with the Meade 46-1 School District in Sturgis, SD. After retirement, he continued to work summers for the Sturgis Parks Department.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Viola Potter, Sturgis; sons, James (Mavis) Potter, Sturgis, Jerry (Marilyn) Potter, Sturgis, Joe (Judy) Potter, Tyndall, SD; daughters, Janice (Laddie) Rous, Tyndall, SD, Judy (Curt) Elson, Belle Fourche, SD, Joyce Potter, Sturgis; nine grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Orlando and Rodney; sisters, Emma Martin, Mildred Hughes, and Ruth Kellogg.
Visitation will be Monday, October 19, 2009 at Black Hill Funeral Home from 8:00 a.m. until service time.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 19, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Black Hills Funeral Home in Sturgis, SD with Rev. Brent Woodard officiating. Burial will follow at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard providing military honors.
A memorial has been established.
Viola Florence “Vi” Potter passed away Thursday, November 12, 2015, at the Belle Fourche Healthcare Center.
Vi was born to Arthur and Frances (Mirau) Ridgway on May 7, 1925. She was born at home, south of Wagner, SD. Vi was raised on the farm. She completed eight years of education, and later married Ronald “Bud” Potter on June 23, 1943.
After marriage, Bud and Vi continued to farm, raising six children in Bon Homme County until they moved to Sturgis in 1977. When her children were gone, she worked for Meade County School District until she retired at the age of 65.
Vi is survived by her daughters, Janice (Laddie) Rous, Tyndall, Judy (Curt) Elson, Belle Fourche, Joyce Potter, Sturgis; sons, James (Mavis) Potter, Sturgis, Jerry (Marilyn) Potter, Sturgis, Joe (Judy) Potter Tyndall; nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bud; her parents, Arthur and Frances Ridgway; a sister, Delores Brewer; and a brother, James Arthur Ridgway.
Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Monday, November 16th 2015 and two hours prior to the service at the Black Hills Funeral Home in Sturgis. Services will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 17th with Rev. Herbert B. Cleveland officiating. Interment will follow at 12:30 PM at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.
A Memorial has been established.
Gladys N. Pechous, age 87 of Tyndall passed away Monday, November 2, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Society in Tyndall, SD.
Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 6, 2015 at the United Methodist Church in Tyndall, SD with Rev. Laurie Kidd officiating. Visitations will begin at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, November 5, 2015 at the Opsahl-Kostel Memorial Chapel, Tyndall, with a Scripture service at 7:00 p.m. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial of the cremated remains will be 9:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2015 at the Czech National Cemetery, Tyndall, SD. Pallbearers will be Dennis Corcoran, Doug Corcoran, Larry Hovorka, Rick Novak, Joseph Novak and Jesse Pechous. Honorary pallbearers will be Gladys’ grandchildren.
Gladys N. Pechous was born May 23, 1928 to Joseph J. and Josephine M. (Jilek) Novak near Avon, SD. She attended school in rural Avon and Tripp and graduated from Tyndall High School. She worked at Security State Bank and several cafes until she married Donald G. Pechous of Tabor, SD on September 24, 1951, at the United Methodist Church, Tyndall, SD. This union was blessed with three daughters: Linda, Kathleen and Laurie. They farmed in the Tabor area until 1996 when they moved to Yankton, SD. Gladys enjoyed her family, quilting, sewing and crafts. While in Tabor, she volunteered and participated in many quilt fundraising projects. She especially enjoyed sharing her knowledge of crafts and quilting. Gladys loved dancing with Don, playing lively games of cards or marbles with friends and family and entertaining in her home. She was of Czech heritage and loved to attend the annual Tabor Czech Days.
Gladys is survived by her daughters: Linda (Allan) Philippi Husby of Sioux Falls, SD, Kathy (Brian) Mathis of Spokane, WA and Laurie (Jim) Clark of Spokane, WA; four grandchildren: Rachael (Nathan) Schwab of Sioux Falls, SD and Rhonda (Greg) Hammerquist of Tea, SD, Amanda (Jeremy) Mavis of Hayward, WI and Mason (Haley) Mathis of Spokane, WA; two step-grandchildren, Heather (Jasper) Kouhotek and Melinda (John) Turner, both of Spokane WA; six great-grandchildren: Reese and Reid Hammerquist, Sari and Macie Mavis, and Brady and Lily Schwab; brothers, Jim (Jan) Novak and Charlie (Shirley) Novak, both of California, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Gladys was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald; parents; three sisters: Mildred Horvorka (survivor Herman), Irene (Bob) Ruman, and Sylvia (Don) Corcoran; two brothers, Joseph (survivor Marg) Novak and Milo (survivor Rose) Novak.
Marie (Boese) Philipp was born on January 6, 1901 near Avon, South Dakota to Abraham and Helena Boese. Here she spent her early youth and received her education, which included elementary school plus two years at Freeman Academy, Freeman, South Dakota.
She was baptized upon the confession of her faith by the Rev. D. A. Schultz and received into the Mennonite Church at Avon in June of 1918. She became a very active member of the church and taught Sunday School classes for many years.
On November 9, 1930 she was united in marriage to Mr. Paul Heinrich Philipp by the same minister that had baptized her. The couple made their home for several years in the Avon community, living on a farm and pursuing the occupation of farming. Here the two oldest children, a daughter, Agnes Helena; and a son, Robert Roy, were born.
In 1936 the family moved to California settling on a farm in Merced County near LeGrand, where they continued the vocation of farming. Here two more sons: Walter Mark, and Calvin Lloyd, were born.
In December of 1942 the family moved to a farm near Reedley, California where the same vocation was continued. The following year, in August of 1943 both Mr. and Mrs. Philipp united with the First Mennonite Church of Reedley, where they have remained faithful, loyal, and active members until the present time.
In 1963, after the children were all married, Mr. Philipp retired and with his wife moved into the town of Reedley. Here Mrs. Philipp spent the remainder of her days.
Early in the morning of Friday, August 26, 1966 she suffered a stroke and was admitted into the Sierra-Kings Hospital. Here she passed away two weeks later, on Friday, September 9, 1966.
She leaves to mourn her departure: her husband, Paul; one daughter, Agnes and her husband Ramon Jantz of Fresno; three sons: Robert and wife Joann of Atascadara, Walter and wife Donna of Bakersfield, and Calvin and wife Jane of Reedley; four brothers: Henry of Upland, John of Freeman, South Dakota; Albert of Yankton, South Dakota, and Mark of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; four sisters: Aganeta Lidtke of Salem, Oregon; Ella Becker of Avon, South Dakota; Adina Schultz of Decatur, Illinois; and Adeline Kaufman of Marion, South Dakota; nine grandchildren; five sisters-in-law, three brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, by a brother Ben and by a sister Katherine.
Jacob Pfeifle, son of Peter Pfeifle and his wife, Anna Marie nee Mutschelknaus, was born on May 29, 1887 in Hutchinson County, S. Dak. He became a member of the Church through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism in infancy.
He was married to Lydia Schaeffer on February 3, 1910. Three children were born to this marriage.
He lived in Yankton and Hutchinson Counties most of his life. He lived at the Good Samaritan Home in Scotland for the last year. He was hospitalized at Tyndall on October 14th and passed from this life on Sunday evening, October 16, 1966, at the age of 79 years, 4 months, and 17 days.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, August, and one sister, Amelia.
He is survived by: his wife, Lydia of Scotland; two sons, Gilbert and Oscar of Menno; a daughter, Mrs. Kermit (Alice) Graber of Cehalis, Wash., 10 grandchildren, four brothers: Carl of Lodi, Calif., Ed of Lodi, Calif., George of Rock Island, Ill., and Albert of Mobridge, S. Dak.; seven sisters: Mrs. William (Barbara) Oswald of Yankton, S. D., Mrs. Phillip (Christine) Steiger of Lodi, Calif., Mrs. Emil (Regina) Neuhardt of Salem, Ore., Mrs. Nick (Anna) Helgerson of Yankton, S. D., Mrs. Joe (Maggie) Stern, Menno, S. D., Mrs. Adam (Ida) Oswald of Wink, N. D., and Mrs. Ben (Louise) Phillips of Aberdeen, S. D.
Funeral services were conducted at the Grace Lutheran Church of Menno on October 19th at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Gerald D. Gieseke officiating. Music and liturgical settings for the service were provided by the Grace Lutheran Church Choir, accompanied by Mrs. Leland Schempp, organist. Pallbearers: Allen Pfeifle, Albert Pfeifle Jr., Ephraim Schaeffer, Gillas Stern, Clifford Quast, and Albert Bender. Interment was made at the Menno Cemetery with the Aisenbrey Funeral Home in charge. A lunch was furnished for the family by the Grace Lutheran friends from a distance and the Church Women.
Ruth A. Pearson, 87, of Marcus, IA and formerly of Yankton, SD passed away Saturday, July 24, 2010 at Heartland Care Center in Marcus, IA.
Funeral services will be 10:30 Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Yankton. Burial will follow in Elim Cemetery, rural Irene, SD. Visitation will begin one hour prior to services on Wednesday, July 28, at the church.
Ruth Anna (Deutscher) Pearson was born April 2, 1923 near Scotland, South Dakota to Gus and Anna (Sayler) Deutscher. She attended rural grade school and graduated from Scotland High School in 1941. She then attended beauty school in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Ruth was united in marriage to Dale V. Pearson on June 4, 1943, in Hartington, Nebraska. This union was blessed with two children, Wayne and David.
Ruth and Dale lived in California while Dale was stationed there during WWII. After the war they moved to Scotland for a short time and then farmed in the Midway area for several years. They moved into Yankton in the early 60's, where Dale worked a Gurney's and Ruth operated a beauty shop. She continued with her business after Dale's death on May 14, 1975. Ruth operated several beauty shops, a dress shop and a bridal shop over 60 plus years. After some health problems she moved to Heartland Care Center in Marcus, Iowa in February of 2006.
Ruth was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, several professional organizations, various clubs, and Sweet Adeline's for 30 years.
Her greatest enjoyment was time spent with family and friends and especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will always be remembered for her willingness to help anyone who needed help and her collections of various items, and her delicious apple pies.
Ruth is survived by her two sons and their families: Wayne and Betty Pearson, Susan and Kyle Krier, Preston, Ethan, Anna, and Jadyn, Michelle and Keith Bittner, Mallorie, David and Lucille Pearson, Lisa and Gerry Alesch, Owen and Wyatt, Joe Pearson, also one brother and his family; John and Glee Deutscher, Nola and Roger Varilek, Tiffany and Trevor, Jeff and Maureen Deutscher, Jeremy, Nick, and Annie, Jay and Beth Deutscher, Jill and Jenna.
Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dale, grandson Benjamin Pearson, and sister-in-law Virgie Pearson.
Mary Ann Prouty, 91, of San Antonio, TX formerly of Flandreau, died Sunday April 8, 2012 at Odyssey Healthcare in San Antonio, TX. Mary Ann was born July 5, 1920 at Scotland, SD to Frank and Pauline (Dux) Sabatka. She grew up and graduated from Tabor High School in 1938. On February 3, 1940 she married John Herman at Tabor, SD. After John’s death Mary Ann married James Prouty on January 5, 1945 at Tabor. They lived in Yankton and she worked for WNAX radio and later moved to Alexandria, SD where they farmed. In 1962 they moved to Flandreau and Mary Ann was the Moody County Highway Department secretary until she retired on July 1, 1988. James preceded her in death on April 24, 1989. Mary Ann moved to San Antonio, TX in October of 2007. Mary Ann was a member of Ss. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters and the Firemen’s Auxiliary.
Mary Ann is survived by 4 children, John Prouty, Marblemount, WA, Sharlene Slama, Turlock, CA, Connie (DuWayne) Headrick, San Antonio, TX, Darrell (Diane) Prouty, Hope Mills, NC; 9 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and 1 sister, Romaine Young, Memphis, TN. She is preceded in death by her husbands; a son, James and a brother, John.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, April 13, 2012 at 10:30 AM at Ss. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, Flandreau with burial at Ss. Simon and Jude Catholic Cemetery, Flandreau. Visitation will begin Thursday at 5 PM at Skroch Funeral Chapel, Flandreau with a 7 PM prayer service and Catholic Daughter Rosary.
Funeral Mass for Edward Petrik will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 29, 2015 at St. Vincent Catholic Church in Springfield. Visitation will be Sunday at the church from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. Rosary. Burial will be at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery in Tabor with military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Dakota Senior Meals (605 8th St.; Springfield, SD 57062) or the Springfield Veterans’ Memorial (31180 416th Ave.; Springfield, SD 57062).
Edward B. Petrik was born July 26, 1933 in Tabor, SD, the son of Edward L. and Lillian (Faltin) Petrik. He died Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Society in Tyndall, SD. Ed attained the age of 81 years.
Ed graduated from Tabor High School in 1951. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Southern State Teacher’s College in 1958 and his Master’s degree from the University of South Dakota in 1965.
Ed served two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was stationed in Japan and earned recognition as a sharp shooter. Ed was also a charter member of the Springfield Unit of the S.D. Army National Guard.
Ed married Wilma Carda at Wagner, SD on June 16, 1958. Four children were blessed to their union.
Ed taught nine years at Crofton, NE as an industrial arts and history teacher and eight of those years as an administrator of Crofton High School. He worked one year at the Human Resource Center in Yankton as a counselor. In 1967, he became an instructor of Industrial and Vocation Arts at the University of South Dakota in Springfield until its closing. Ed then worked as a job counselor at the Springfield Correctional Facility until he retired.
Ed was involved in community service in Crofton and was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. In Springfield, Ed was an active member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church and served on the construction committee of the building of the church. He continued to help with the care of the church. Ed was also a life member of Dwight Wood American Legion Post #132 in Springfield.
Ed enjoyed woodworking, wood carving, bee keeping, metal detecting, auction sales, gardening, reading and traveling. He had a great sense of humor and like to tell stories. Ed enjoyed the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Thankful for having shared his life are his wife Wilma of Tyndall; children: Diane (Gene) Nelson of Valley Point, WV, Peggy (Todd) Koan of Owatonna, MN, Jeff (Sally) of Hillman, MI and Mary (Blane) Beilke of Bettendorf, IA; seven grandchildren: Matthew Nelson, Alissa Freeland, Blaire Brabson, Steve Nelson, Sarah Koan, Natalie Koan and Emily Beilke; six great grandchildren: Logan and Riley Brabson, Harlyn and Brooks Nelson, and Maggie and Benjamin Edward Nelson; brother Ralph (Judy) of Overland Park, KS; sister-in-law Alice Petrik of Springfield; brothers and sisters-in-law: Dale (Bonnie) Carda of Wagner and Ilene (Bob) Doty of Greeley, CO; and many nieces and nephews.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents; brother Virgil; and in-laws Paul and Fay (Dunsmore) Carda.
Services for Elmer Palmer Peterson, 74, of Estherville will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Henry-Olson-Fuhrman Funeral Chapel in Estherville with the Reverend Dr. John Besore III officiating. Interment will follow at the East Side Cemetery in Estherville, with a special military graveside service by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3388 and American Legion Post 91, both of Estherville. He died Sunday, October 17, 1993 at the McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, S.D. Visitation will be held at the Henry-Olson-Fuhrman Funeral Home in Estherville on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m.
He was born August 14, 1919 in Estherville, the son of Conrad and Julia (Kvanli) Peterson and received his education in the Perkins, S.D. schools. He graduated from Springfield, S.D. High School. He was united in marriage to Lorena Haberman on May 5, 1951 in Estherville.
He served in the United States Army during World War II, serving in the European Theater. Following his marriage, the couple lived in Estherville, Minnesota and Kansas before returning to Estherville in 1983. He was employed by Peoples Natural Gas for 36 years. He was a member of the Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 3388 of Estherville.
He was survived by his wife, two daughters, Linda Sakariason of Blaine, Minn. and Judy Berger of Cedar Rapids, one brother Marvin Peterson of Springfield and three grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Lloyd L. Petersen, 89, Spearfish, died Friday, December 19, 2003, at Lookout Memorial Hospital in Spearfish.
Lloyd Leroy Petersen was born July 27, 1914 in Avon, SD, to Enno and Bertha (Bachman) Petersen, one of eight children, survived only by his sister Edna Donahue.
Lloyd attended Black Hills Teachers College from 1934 to 1939. He graduated and taught in Beulah, WY; New Underwood, SD; Nisland, SD; and Custer, SD. He served as a pilot trainer in WWII and flew in China and India. He was married to Esther Sipila on May 26, 1942, at Sioux City, IA. Lloyd made the Air Force his career, retiring in 1969 as a Lt. Colonel. He worked as a caseworker and Hearing Examiner for SD Dept. of Social Services from 1970 to 1977. They moved to Spearfish in 1990. He lived in Garland, TX, from 2001 until 2003 with his son Don. Following Don's retirement they moved back to Spearfish.
His son, Don Petersen of Spearfish, SD; one sister, Edna Donahue; and numerous nieces and nephews survive him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Esther, March 17, 2002; and several brothers and sisters.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2003, at 1 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Spearfish, with Rev. Gene Bauman officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Slope Cemetery at Belle Fourche, with military honors by the Spearfish American Legion Post 164 and VFW Post 5860 Honor Guard. The Carlsen & Aldinger Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Visitation will be at the funeral home on Saturday, December 20, 2003, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. and at the church on Sunday one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the donor's choice.
Mrs. Martha Peterson, 78, outstanding pioneer women character in South Dakota, died at her home three and a half miles southwest of Wagner leaving a record of privation, endurance and courage unequalled in the history of this community. Scorning all modern methods and conveniences, depending almost entirely upon herself and regarded by many as eccentric, Martha Peterson, when left husbandless and with a family of seven small children took a man's place in the world, homesteading in an unsettled country to wrest a living for her family from the soil. In spite of heartbreaking setbacks, prairie fires, insects, pests and droughts that beset the pioneers and discouraged many a man, she managed by perseverance and hard work to gradually add to her possessions and to successfully rear her children.
Martha Lucy Severtsen was born in Norway September 18, 1857. At the age of 23 she married Erick Peterson, who in 1885 came to America to make a home for his family, sending for them the following year. His wife and four children joined him in Rock county, Minnesota where on January 12, 1888, the family survived the historical blizzard by burning flax straw as no other fuel or outside help was obtainable. In 1889 Mr. Peterson came to Bon Homme county in South Dakota sending for his family the following year. Later he worked in the quarries in the Black Hills. He became ill from drinking water in the White River and upon arriving home developed typhoid fever which caused his death.
In 1892 Mr. Peterson brought her family to Charles Mix county and homesteaded on the land where she spent the remainder of her life. With her own hands, she built a house and other buildings of sod and began her heroic struggle for existence. The nearest settlements were a day's journey.
In 1893 she fought the prairie fire which swept this section, hemming in the family and threatening complete destruction. While his mother fought the flames in a vain effort to save her possessions, her son, Emil, saved the house containing the children by plowing around it. All the other buildings and all livestock with the exception of the team of horses were lost. As a result of her battle with the flames, Mrs. Peterson became blind for several months.
The periods of droughts and pests never once daunted this valiant woman who spent the most of the days of her life in toil of the hardest kind. She worked and planned until past midnight and arose at 4 a.m. as a daily routine even after her children had grown. At times she became desperate in her struggle to keep her family together. During a period of panic and drought she walked ten miles each day to work for fifty cents per day to earn needed money. Complaints were made that her children had insufficient food and care and they were taken from her. Again she battled, successfully proving that she was caring for her family and her children were returned to her.
As her children grew up they left to care for themselves and she was left alone with her youngest child.
Entirely through her own efforts, she made a success, holding her 160 acres of homesteaded land, buying an extra 80 acres, drilling the first artesian well in the community in 1902 at a cost of $700 and during the war purchasing 10 acres of land for $2850 for a new home. However the new home was never built as she preferred the simplest form of living and refused to leave the house which replaced the sod structure. She had no conveniences or luxuries and spent no time in idleness or recreation.
In 1910 she saved money for a six months trip to Norway accompanied by her daughter Emma to visit her father and relatives. She brought back with her priceless heirlooms of the family which have been handed down to her children and which include antique jewelry, silverware, hand made laces and other hand made articles.
She aided the development of an exceptional talent possessed by her youngest daughter whom she sent to Art School in Omaha. Her daughter has sold many pictures.
Mrs. Peterson has been a familiar figure since childhood to people here, often seen trudging to and from Wagner with the necessities of life during bitter cold winter weather and the summer heat. She had lived almost entirely alone since 1920 and has always cared for herself and her livestock. Weakened by the heat of the past summer, she had planned on spending the winter with a daughter in the west who would provide her with her first experience in a comfortable, modern home. Last week she suffered a stroke, but rallied and spent the afternoon doing chores about the farm. A second stroke and a heat attack in the evening caused her death the following morning.
Simplicity marked the funeral services which were held on Sunday, October 6 at the Lutheran church at Perkins. Rev. W. E. Hartung, of Wagner, gave an appropriate sermon. She was buried beside the body of her husband in the Bon Homme cemetery.
She is survived by two brothers, and a sister in Norway. She has four daughters: Mrs. Clara Greenfield of San Jose, California; Mrs. Emma Flynn of Wagner; Mrs. Bertena Neiderworder of Philip; and Mrs. Olga Lee, location unknown; three sons, Emil of Monowi, Nebraska; Lund of Philip; and Severeen of Wagner; and 30 grandchildren.
Agatha E. Pesicka, age 89, of Yankton, and formerly of Tabor, SD passed away Monday, January 17, 2011 at the Avera Yankton Care Center, Yankton, SD.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 21, 2011 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Yankton, with Rev. Ken Lulf officiating. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Yankton, SD. Visitations will be 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, SD with a rosary at 7:00 p.m. followed by a Scripture service at 7:30 p.m. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church. Pallbearers will be her five grandsons and one grandson-in-law: Keith, Terry, Brice, Mike and Shane Pick and Chris Johnson.
Agatha E. Pesicka was born September 10, 1921 to Frank and Mary (Westermann) Grewe at West Point, NE. At age 7, Agatha moved to SD with her parents and brothers. After graduating from 8th grade, she stayed home and helped her parents on the farm.
On May 8, 1948, she married Thomas “Henry” Pesicka at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Yankton. They had celebrated their 61st anniversary on May 8, 2009. Agatha was a farm wife, helping Henry with milking cows, farrowing hogs and she always had chickens.
Agatha will always be remembered for her crocheting, embroidering, and for the angel food cakes she always made for her grandchildren’s birthdays.
Agatha became a resident of the Avera Yankton Care Center in October of 2009. She enjoyed all the staff and especially enjoyed sitting in her room and watching the cars go by. She liked playing bingo and attending Mass. Agatha also was a member of the VFW Auxillary.
Agatha’s memory will be cherished by her daughter, Donna (Larry) Pick of Hartington, NE; six grandchildren: Keith Pick, Shannon (Chris) Johnson, Terry (Sherry) Pick, Brice Pick (fiancé Letisha Ruppert), Mike Pick and Shane Pick; 16 great-grandchildren; two brothers: Rudy Grewe of Ainsworth, NE, and Joe Grewe of Omaha, NE; two sisters: Mary Ann Schulte of Sioux City, IA and Anna Marie Murray of Sioux Falls, SD; several nieces and nephews.
Agatha is preceded in death by her husband, Henry on September 17, 2009, her parents, five brothers (one in infancy) and a son-in-law, Larry Humpal.
Thomas “Henry” Pesicka, age 89, of Tabor, S.D., passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2009, at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 21, 2009, at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Yankton, with Rev. Paul Josten officiating. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Yankton, with Military Graveside Rites by the Ernest-Bowyer VFW Post #791. Visitations will be 5-8 p.m., Sunday, September 20, 2009, at Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, with a 7:00 p.m. rosary and 7:30 p.m. prayer service. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church. Pallbearers will be Keith Pick, Terry Pick, Brice Pick, Mike Pick, Shane Pick and Chris Johnson.
Thomas “Henry” Pesicka was born December 27, 1919, to Thomas and Hazel (Pugh) Pesicka in Yankton, S.D. He attended Cement School District #63 and also Yankton High School. Henry entered the United States Army on October 26, 1942, and was honorably discharged on December 30, 1945. He was presented with a Purple Heart as only one of three men from his company to survive the Battle of The Bulge. After returning home, he worked for Mean’s Cleaners for two years. On May 8, 1948, Henry married Agatha Grewe at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Yankton which they just celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on May 8, 2009. In November 1949, Henry began farming in rural Yankton and continued to do so up until two years ago. He was a member of the VFW and St. Benedict Catholic Church. For Henry, farming began as a career and ended as a hobby.
Henry’s memory will be cherished by his wife, Agatha of Hartington, NE; one daughter, Donna (Larry) Pick of Hartington, NE; six grandchildren: Keith Pick, Shannon (Chris) Johnson, Terry (Sherry) Pick, Brice Pick, Mike Pick and Shane Pick; 16 great-grandchildren; one sister, Margaret Harts of Yankton, and several nieces and nephews.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother; 2 sisters, Frances (Schramm) Goeken and Mildred Hunhoff, and son-in-law Larry Humpal.
Cynthia Marie Ponteres of Fountain Valley, California passed away on September 14, 2012. A Visitation will be held on Friday, September 21, 2012 from 5 - 8:30 p.m.at Westminster Memorial Park. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday September 22, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. at Westminster Memorial Park Main Chapel. Arrangements under the direction of Westminster Memorial Park, 14801 Beach Blvd. Westminster, California 92683.
Raymond A. Pavlish, age 66, of Yankton, passed away Thursday, February 09, 2012 at the Tyndall Good Samaritan Center, Tyndall, SD.
Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 13, 2012 at the United Church of Christ (Congregational), Yankton, with Dr. Richard W. Jensen and Rev. Paul M. Opsahl officiating. Military Rites presented by the Ernest Bowyer VFW Post #791. Ray’s family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church. The Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Yankton, is in charge of arrangements.
Raymond was born January 8, 1946 in Yankton, SD, to Adolph and Mamie (Herman) Pavlish. He graduated from Tyndall High School and received his BS Degree in Education from USD in 1972. He married Carol Schneider on August 14, 1971 in Tyndall, SD and was Honorable Discharged from the US Air Force.
He belonged to the American Legion and United Church of Christ, both in Yankton, SD. He worked as a manager at Gurney Seed & Nursery from 1972 to 1989, Valkering USA from 1989 to 1991, Buches Grocery Store, Aalf Manufacturing and Baldwin Filters until retirement.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Pavlish of Yankton, SD; sons, Jason (Cheri) of Hiawatha, KS and Joshua (Melissa) of Yankton, SD; 5 grandchildren, Hunter, Callyn, William, Grace and Benjamin; sister, Mamie Rothschadl (James) of Tyndall, SD.
He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws, Eugene and Linda Schneider, dog, Maggie, and many aunts and uncles.
The family requests that memorials be directed to: Tyndall Good Samaritan Center, 2304 Laurel Street, Tyndall, SD 57066 and Heartland Humane Society, 601 Burleigh Street, Yankton, SD 57078.
Carol A. Pavlish, age 69 passed away on Monday, January 12, 2015 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton, SD.
Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 16, 2015 at the United Church of Christ (Congregational), Yankton with Rev. Molly Carlson officiating. Visitations will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home and Crematory, Yankton is in care of the arrangements.
Carol Schneider was born February 21, 1945 on the family farm northwest of Tyndall, SD to Eugene and Linda (Thum) Schneider. She was baptized and confirmed at the Emmanuel Reformed Church. She completed 8th grade at Hoff School #80 and graduated from Tyndall High School in 1963. She then attended Stewart School of Cosmetology, graduating in 1965.
Carol worked at several different businesses in Yankton including Scoblics, Gurneys, Consolidated Business, Longs Propane and Weight Watchers.
Carol married Ray Pavlish August 14, 1971. To this union two sons were born, Jason and Joshua. Carol enjoyed following her boys in their various sports. Nana loved to go to her grandchildren’s activities which included, dance, gymnastics, softball, baseball, football and soccer.
Carol is survived by her son, Jason (Cheri) and her son, Joshua (Melissa); grandchildren: Hunter, Callyn, William, Grace and Benjamin; one brother, Gene (Nancy) Schneider; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Mae and Jim Rothschadl; three nieces; two nephews and several great nieces and nephews and beloved pet Libby.
Carol is preceded in death by her husband, Ray, mother and father, Eugene and Linda Schneider, mother and father-in-law, Mamie and Adolph Pavlish, several aunts and uncles and beloved pet Maggie.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Heartland Humane Society, 3400 East Hwy 50, Yankton, SD 57078 and Yankton Youth Soccer Assoc., PO Box 1012, Yankton, SD 57078.
Edward Emanuel Plihal was born in Tyndall, South Dakota, on June 5, 1921. Edward, the youngest son of Joseph and Emma Plihal, was one of five children. He had a brother named Joe and three sisters: Ann, Lillian, and Ella. He lived in Tyndall, South Dakota, and graduated in 1939 from Tyndall High School. After high school he went on to Southern Normal School in Springfield for two years, and then on to South Dakota State College, Brookings, in September of 1941.
In February of 1942, while at college, he received a commission as second lieutenant, and in June of the same year he volunteered for service in the United States Army. Lt. Edward E. Plihal was first at Camp Walters for three months and then he was moved to Fort Benning, Georgia. Lt. Plihal was finally stationed at Camp Hood, Texas, as an instructor in the tank destroyer school.
On April 14, 1944, in Koleen, Texas, station hospital Lt. Edward Emanuel Plihal died after catching meningitis two days prior. His family was informed of his illness immediately but was told not to try to make a trip to Texas. After his death his mother received a letter that her son had been promoted to Captain and that he was a “fine, upstanding young officer, whose absence will be felt very keenly by his organization and former associates.” His body was returned to Tyndall, SD, where services were held. Edward Plihal is buried at the Bohemian National Cemetery northeast of Tyndall.
At the time of his death he was survived by his parents, Joseph and Emma Plihal, Tyndall, South Dakota; brother, Capt. Joe Plihal, England; and sisters, Ann, Hanford, Washington; Lillian, Edmonton, Canada; Ella Dvoracek, Tyndall, South Dakota.
Source: South Dakota World War II Memorial
Rudolph Pavlish was born on March 23, 1909 on the family farm northeast of Tyndall, South Dakota. His parents were Anton and Frances (Marecek) Pavlish. Rudy corresponded with a young lady in Czechoslovakia named Libuse Chalupnikova, and this correspondence led to their marriage on December 23, 1948 in Prague, Czechoslovakia. Rudy farmed most of his life on a farm east of Tyndall. He enjoyed Czech music and played the accordion, and played the tuba and the baritone in several polka bands. He was a lifetime member of the Tyndall Presbyterian church and was also a past member of the National Farmer’s Organization. Rudy died on Sunday, February 5, 2006 at his residence in Tyndall at the age of 96 years.
Rudy is survived by his two daughters: Elaine (Jerry) Kostal of Tyndall and Ruth (Gene) Melichar of Tabor, South Dakota; five grandchildren: Angie Kostal, Aaron Melichar, Dan Melichar, Mike Kostal, and Matt Kostal; and one sister, Libby (Charles) Bruna of Tyndall.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Libby in September of 2001, his parents, four brothers and three sisters.
Funeral services for Louis Peterka, 79, were to be at 3pm Monday at the Petrik Funeral Home in Tyndall with the Rev. Louis Cowherd from Scotland officiating. Burial was to be in the Czech National Cemetery.
Mr. Peterka was born Dec. 14, 1892 at Tyndall to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Peterka and died July 22, 1972 at the local hospital. On June 12, 1922 he married Josephine Kouba at Tyndall. They farmed until moving to town in 1952.
Survivors include his widow; one brother, Frank, Tyndall, and two sisters, Mrs. Victor Marek, Yankton, and Mrs. Vlasta Tutsch, Shelby, Mont. He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.
Funeral services for Mrs. Wes (Verda) Proks, 67, will be at 10:30 am Saturday at the St. John Lutheran Church with the Rev. Barton Gray officiating. Burial will be in the Czech Nation Cemetery under the direction of the Petrik Funeral Home.
She was born May 5, 1905 at Gayville to Mr. and Mrs. Edward Johnson and died Feb. 21, 1973 at the Tyndall Hospital. On Oct. 7, 1929 she married Wes Proks at Springfield.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. John (Trudy) Stastny, Wagner; a grandchild; two half sisters, Mrs. Frank Obr, Yankton, and Mrs. Ralph Taylor, Lincoln, Neb., and a half brother, Raymond Hough, California. Her husband preceded her in death in 1966.
Nathan Pritzkau, 85, Avon, died Thursday (Aug. 7, 2003) at Springfield Assisted Living, Springfield. Funeral service is 10:30 a.m. Monday at the First Baptist Church, Avon. Burial is in the church cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation is from 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday followed by a prayer service at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel, Avon.
He was born Jan. 3, 1918, on a farm near Avon to Emanuel and Gertie (Van Duysen) Pritzkau. He attended James Country School though the eighth grade. He married Dorothy Radack Oct. 14, 1940, at Hartington, Neb. They farmed in the Avon area until moving into Avon in 1981. He also worked as a crop insurance adjuster, Avon school bus driver and custodian at Meadow View Manor, Avon. His wife died Dec. 28, 1996. He became a resident of the Avon Manor in September 2000 and of Springfield Assisted Living April 4, 2003.
He was baptized at the First Baptist Church. He was an active member all of his life and served as an usher and trustee. He will be remembered for his enjoyment of going to Avon sports activities and doing crafts with his wife. He rarely missed watching the Braves, Packers and Lakers. He also enjoyed woodworking.
He is survived by two daughters: Jean (Jim) Christjans, Avon; and Mary Hoferer, Creighton, Neb.; two grandchildren; one great-grandson; and many relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, one son, his parents, one brother and two sisters.
Funeral services for Mrs. John Pudwill will be Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the Danzig Baptist Church with burial in the chuprch cemetery at Avon. Rev. Burnell Pudwill, a grandson, will officiate, assisted by the Rev. Walter Sukut. Crosby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Pudwill died Feb 14, 1968 at a Wagner Hospital. She was born Feb. 7, 1888, to Jacob and Amelia Guthmiller in Bon Homme County. She wasa member of the Danzig Baptist Church and lived in the Good Samartiian home at Wagner the past year. She married John Pudwill Feb. 8, 1906.
Survivors are five daughters; Mrs. John (Edna) Seligman of Las Vegas; Mrs. Leroy (Viola) Walston of Chula Vista, Calif., Mrs. Byron (Lillian) Litz of San Diego, Calif., Mrs. Ed (Elisie) Johnson and Mrs. Roland (Lorraine) Quartier of Avon; six sons; Otto, Herbert, James and Rowland of Avon, Norman of Hot Springs and John Jr., of Emery; one sister, Mrs. Charles Pietz of Tripp; 36 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and three children.
Arnold M. Pudwill, 49, of Hot Springs died Saturday November 3, 1973, in a local hospital. Pudwill was born March 23, 1924, at Avon. He served in the Army in World War II, and later worked at the Veterans Administration in Hot Springs for many years until his retirement in 1972.
He married Frances Bouska October 26, 1942, in Hot Springs.
Survivors include his widow, Frances, Hot Springs; two daughters, Kay Carlson, Sioux Falls, and Peggy Doll, Custer; one son, Randy, Hot Springs; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jake Pudwill, Avon; two brothers, Vernon, Fresno, CA, and Lyman "Bud," Avon; three sisters, Leola Hornstra, Springfield, Opal Foxley, Santa Maria, CA, and Bernita Seger, Iowa City, IA; and five grandchildren.
Services for Arnold will be 9:00 a.m. Tuesday at McColley Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Burial will be in Black Hills National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday. A memorial has been established to the Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department with McColley's Chapel of the Hills in charge.
Frances A . Pudwill, 87, died on Tuesday, September 28, 2010 at Luther Manor Nursing Home in Sioux Falls.
Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 30 in the Glidden Memorial Chapel at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery with burial to follow.
Frances was born on Feb. 12, 1923 in Tyndall, SD, to Frank and Anna (Sedlacek) Bouska. On Nov. 8, 1942 she married Arnold M. Pudwill in Hartington, NE.
The couple moved to Hot Springs where they lived until his death in 1973. Frances moved back to Tyndall where she resided until three years ago when she moved to Sioux Falls.
She is survived by three children, Kay Bauer of Oregon, Peggy Warner of Sundance, WY, and Randy Pudwill of Sioux Falls. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and two brothers and a sister.
Vernon Dwight Pudwill, 84, of Palm Desert, Calif. passed away on July 12, 2009 of a stroke. He was born June 29, 1925 to Jacob Pudwill and Anna Plaatje in Tyndall, SD. He was a builder/developer. He was a member of the Elks Club. He served in the Marines from 1944 to 1946 as a Corporal. Starting with humble beginnings working in construction in South Dakota, Vern ultimately became a builder/ developer. His incredible vision became reality in his designing, planning and building of residential communities, apartments, hotels, in addition to commercial and retail centers throughout Central and Southern California. Vern was a mentor to many, providing advice and often the financial support, so that others could become successful contractors/ developers. He is survived by his wife, Karen Watkins; daughter, Lisa Kay Harwin of Santa Barbara, Calif.; step-daughter, Denise Kay Ellis of La Quinta, Calif.; son, Jerome Kent Pudwill of Laguna Beach, Calif.; sisters, Bernita Seager of Florida, Opal Foxley of Santa Maria, Calif., and Leola Hornstra of Springfield, SD; and two grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Tanner Ellis of La Quinta, Calif. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Bud Pudwill and Arnie Pudwill, both of South Dakota. Services will be held at 10:00 AM on Sat., July 18, 2009 at the Ramon Chapel, Forest Lawn Mortuary, Cathedral City, CA with interment to follow at Desert Memorial Park, Cathedral City. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to PSLA Scholarship Fund-Vernon Pudwill, 833 E. Mesquite, Palm Springs, CA 92264. Forest Lawn Cathedral City is in charge of arrangements.
Lyman “Bud” Pudwill, 81, of Avon - Memorial services for Lyman and his wife Adela will be 10:30 AM, Monday, September 27, 2008 at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon with Father Thury officiating. Burial is in the Baptist Cemetery, rural Avon.
Lyman “Bud” Pudwill was born north of Avon, SD on March 27, 1927, the son of Jacob and Anna (Plaatje) Pudwill. He died August 31, 2008 at St. Michael’s Hospital in Tyndall, SD. Lyman moved with his parents when he was 14 years old to Hot Springs, SD. He finished school there. He was called into the US Navy for WW II. He served aboard the US Maryland B.B. 46 battleship. After the war he was discharged in Bremerton, WA. He worked at Bremerton until he was recalled back into the Navy in 1951 during the Korean War. He served at the US Naval Recruiting Stations in Denver and later San Francisco, where he became ill and was sent to the US Naval Hospital in Mare Island, CA. He was honorably discharged on November 21, 1952. In his tour of duty he earned the Asiatic-Pacific Area Campaign Medal and the WW II Victory Medal. Lyman returned to South Dakota and worked as a welder for Hallaway Bridge Co. on the Angostora Dam, Garrison Dam, Oahe Dam, the Gavens Point Dam and the Platte-Winner Bridge. He moved with the company to California where he worked on the Vandenberg Missile Silos. He later returned to Avon and started his own business as a welder. Lyman married Adela Rodriguez on June 23, 1978 at Zamora, Mexico. They made their home in Avon. Adela died from a brain tumor on December 8, 2007. Lyman enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and visiting with friends over a cup of coffee. Lyman is survived by one brother, Vernon Pudwill of Palm Desert, CA; three sisters: Leola Hornstra of Springfield, SD; Opal Foxley of Santa Maria, CA; and Bernita and husband Ted Sieger of Clermont, FL; a sister-in-law, Frances Pudwill of Tyndall; and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Anna Pudwill; one sister, Sylvia Pudwill; two brothers: Lornie and Arnold and two brothers-in-law, Gary Hornstra and Arlan Foxley.
Adella Pudwill died December 8, 2007 at the SD Human Services Center in Yankton, SD. Memorial services for Adela and her husband Lyman will be 10:30 AM, Monday, September 22, 2008 at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon with Father Thury officiating. Burial is in the Baptist Cemetery, rural Avon.
Adela Pudwill was born in Zemora, Mexico on August 6, 1945, the daughter of Jose and Lugarda (Dominguez) Rodriguez. She died December 8, 2007 at the SD Human Services Center in Yankton, SD of a brain tumor. Adela received her education in Zemora. After graduation she worked for her aunt who owned a hotel. She worked there for 12 years. This is where she met Lyman Pudwill. After their marriage they moved to Avon, SD. Adela became an American citizen, learned to drive a car and speak and write English. She worked for Avon Enterprises from 1979 to 2001. She was an expert seamstress. After the closing of the factory she worked at Alco in Wagner until she became ill. Adela enjoyed crocheting, knitting, gardening and cooking. She was well liked by all who knew her. Adela is survived by two brothers and four sisters. She was preceded in death by her parents. Her husband Lyman “Bud” Pudwill died August 31, 2008.
Delores Siewert Pudwill, 74, was born Dec. 2, 1930, at Burke, S.D., the daughter of John and Martha (Korb) Siewert, the sixth of seven children. She died Friday, June 24, 2005, at her home in rural Flandreau after her battle with cancer, at the age of 74 years, 6 months, 22 days.
Delores moved with her parents to Naper, Neb., and attended rural schools through sixth grade when she transferred to the Naper Public School through her sophomore year. She moved with her family to Avon, S.D., in 1946 and graduated from Avon High School in 1948. Following graduation she attended Southern Teachers College (summer session) and graduated with a two-year teaching certificate. She taught at Dewald and Giedd schools in the rural Avon area.
Delores accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior and was baptized. She was a faithful member of the Avon Wesleyan Church, serving as a Sunday School teacher and a member of the Women's Missionary Society serving as treasurer. On Dec. 10, 1948, Delores was married to Burnell Pudwill in Avon. In 1958 she moved with Burnell and children to Miltonvale, Kan., where Burnell enrolled in Miltonvale Wesleyan College to prepare for the ministry. Delores served as a dedicated wife, mother, and dorm mother to 10 college students. She moved with Burnell and her family to the Richland Wesleyan Church, Mina, S.D., where they lived from 1961-1969. Again, she served faithfully as a pastor's wife, S.S. teacher, hostess, Vacation Bible school teacher, and mother to her five children. In 1969, Delores and her family moved to Williston, N.D., where her husband-pastor served the Williston Wesleyan Church. Delores assumed her position as a pastor's wife and homemaker. She opened her home to the youth and members of the church. Delores attended UND (Williston campus) and graduated summa cum laude with a degree in nursing.
In July, 1974, sensing God's call to full-time mission service with her husband, Delores and Burnell moved to the country of Haiti. After studying the French and Haitian Creole languages, they were appointed to the Port Margot (Fauche) Wesleyan Mission. She trained for eight years under mission doctors to consult, diagnose and prescribe medications for malaria, typhoid, anthrax, tuberculosis, upper respiratory infections, heart disease and AIDS. Delores trained several young Haitian ladies to assist her in physical work-ups and evaluations to give injections, dispense medicines, supervise patients, and sterilize surgical equipment. She often consulted 10,000 plus patients per year. Delores worked for Compassion International while at Port Margot, translating sponsored Compassion children's letters into English (for the sponsors) and sponsor's letters into French Creole (for the students). In addition, she was working in the medical clinics. In January, 1984, the transition was made to Christian Sojourn, Inc. She worked with her husband in medical and surgical rural clinics, assisting Burnell (surgical technician) in surgeries. She served very effectively as a hostess to the work teams who came to assist in the mission program. She drove truck to help in the well-drilling program and served as secretary liaison to the supporters of the Christian Sojourn mission program. Delores was instrumental in bringing several Haitian children who had heart dysfunctions needing open-heart surgery to the Mercy Hospital Lifeline program in Des Moines, Iowa. In the 29 years of service in Haiti, Delores' life and commitment to Jesus Christ influenced tens of thousands of Haitians. She was highly regarded by the people with many accepting Jesus as their Lord and Savior because of her medical and physical labors. She turned no one away from her door, regardless of the time of day who needed medical help. She went into the mountains and valleys to provide healthcare. Haitians said, "your medicines always heal us."
Delores' memory will be cherished by her husband, Burnell, Flandreau and Haiti; three sons: Bob (Wendy), Spring, Texas; Randy (Jody), Aberdeen, S.D.; Kevin (Regina), Covington, Ga.; a daughter, Judy (Gary) Hobbie, Flandreau; seven grandchildren: Amber Hobbie, Bartlesville, Okla.; Anthony (Nikki) Hobbie, Mitchell, S.D.; Austin Hobbie, Flandreau; Heidi (Shad) Connor, Las Vegas; Scott (Cheri) Pudwill, Aberdeen; Kayla Pudwill, Mankato, Minn.; Jami Pudwill, Spring, Texas; five great-grandchildren: Haley and Natali Hobbie, Grant Connor, Dominic and Alex Pudwill; four sisters: Ida Klinger, Winner, S.D.; Arlene Hayward, Pierre, S.D.; Jean (Nellie) Parker, Las Vegas; and Ardis Gossard, Fremont, Neb.
She was preceded in death by a son, Todd, her parents, brother, Edmund, sister, Irene Siewert, and many relatives and friends (American and Haitian).
Services will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 2, at the Avon Baptist Church with burial in the Baptist Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation begins at 6 p.m. Thursday with a 7 p.m. prayer service at Brookings Wesleyan Church, Brookings, S.D. Arrangements by Skroch Funeral Chapel, Flandreau.
II Timothy 4:6b-8: É the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day, and not to me only, but unto all them also that love Jesus' appearing."
Mass of Christian Burial for Frank Peschl of Tyndall will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 19 at St. Leo Catholic Church in Tyndall with Fr. Joe Forcelle as Celebrant. Organist is Marcene Kniffen. Interment will follow in St. Leo Cemetery, Tyndall with military graveside rites. Casketbearers will be Frank’s grandchildren, Kevin Hayden, Mika Kunz, Mike Peschl, Pam Novak, Kim Wenzel and Trevor Rokusek. Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Goglin Funeral Home in Tyndall. There will be a wake service on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established by the family in Frank’s memory.
Frank Peschl was born on Tuesday, April 8, 1913 in Yankton, South Dakota to John and Mary (Spahn) Peschl. He grew up in Yankton and attended Yankton Elementary and High Schools. He graduated from Yankton High School in 1931. Following high school, he went into business with John Marek at the Standard Market in Yankton. In 1941, he moved to Tyndall and started Peschl’s Market and Lockers. He kept that business until 1971 when he sold it to his son. He served in the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific during World War II. Frank married Kathryn Brennan on October 16, 1934. Four children were born to this union. Kathryn died in 1970. On August 4, 1973 Frank married Norma Evers. He was a member of St. Leo Catholic Church. Frank passed away on Sunday, July 15, 2012 having achieved the age of 99 years, 3 months, and 7 days.
Frank is survived by his wife, Norma, of Tyndall; three children: John T. (Ginger) Peschl of Tyndall, Kay (Tom) Hayden of Plymouth, Minnesota, and Theresa (Dennis Johnson) Rokusek of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota; two step-children: Roger (Connie) Evers of York, Nebraska and Mary Vanderlinde of Grand Rapids, Minnesota; eight grandchildren: Mike (Barb) Peschl, Karen (Bob) Schmidt, Pam (Rick) Novak and Kim (Bill) Wenzel of Tyndall, Kevin (Anne) Hayden, Mika (James) Kunz, Jason (Missy) Rokusek and Trevor (Michelle Grant) Rokusek, all of Minneapolis, Minnesota; twelve great-grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, and five step-great-grandchildren; one brother, Ernest Peschl; and many nieces and nephews.
Frank was preceded in death by his first wife, Kathryn; a daughter, Michaelene; five brothers: Albert, John, Joe, Jim and Fred; and four sisters: Ann Boswell, Betty Peschl, Mary Nedved and Dorothy Svatos.
Mavis Louise Pech was born on Thursday, February 11, 1937 to Emil and Blanche (Peterka) Pech in Tyndall, South Dakota. She attended Bambas Country School and also attended Tyndall High School, where she especially liked taking Home Ec classes. She also received vocational training in Mitchell and Yankton over the years. Mavis’ parents lovingly raised her to work hard, live independently, and achieve her potential. For several years, Mavis worked at an egg processing plant in Yankton and also one in Bloomfield, Nebraska. She enjoyed doing all types of crafts, had a keen interest in geography, and loved her huge collection of stuffed animals. Mavis had countless friends and was known everywhere she went. She enjoyed going out to eat and loved giving small gifts to those who visited. She enjoyed traveling and participating in family gatherings with her many cousins. Mavis passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2008 at her residence in Yankton at the age of 71 years, 10 months and 6 days.
Mavis is survived by a foster brother, Harold Colgan, of Callahan, Florida, and his two sons, Mark and Paul. She is also survived by many cousins, neighbors and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Emil and Blanche Pech.
Funeral service for Clifford “Rook” Powers will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 18, 2012 at St. John Catholic Church in Wagner. Burial will be in the parish cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Wagner Friday, August 17, 2012, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. rosary/wake at the church.
Clifford C. “Rook” Powers, son of Robert and Emma (Hirsch) Powers, was born April 25, 1927 on a farm northeast of Wagner. He died Tuesday, August 14, 2012 at the Good Samaritan Society in Wagner. Rook attained the age of 85 years, three months and 21 days.
Cliff graduated from Wagner High School in 1945. He served in the US Army from 1945 to 1947 and was stationed in Vienna and Linns, Austria.
Cliff married Carol Maxine Schulz on June 10, 1951. Seven children were blessed to their union. He was a lifetime farmer, first on the river bottom south of Dante and then on his parent’s farm northeast of Wagner. Cliff and Carol worked at the Avon and Wagner Sale Barns for over 50 years, where Cliff ran the scale.
Cliff was a member of the Assumption Catholic Church in Dante and a lifetime member of the Wagner VFW Post 7319.
Cliff will be remembered for his enjoyment of bowling, watching his grandsons’ car races, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and watching finches.
Thankful for having shared his life are his children: Douglas (died October 5, 1996); Jackie Peters and companion Terry Andersh, Avon; Janet Nedved and husband Stan, Wagner; Jim and wife Jeanne, Sioux Falls; Angela Nagel and husband Bryan, Avon; Jerome and wife Heidi, Wagner; and Lori Hollis and husband Michael, Richmond, VA; 20 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; sister, Vera Berndt, Barstow, CA; and many relatives and friends.
Cliff was preceded in death by his wife, Carol on April 22, 2009; son, Douglas; sister, Della Hochhalter; and parents.
Elmer & Harriet Pudwill
Elmer Pudwill, 88, Avon, died Tuesday (May 29, 2001) at the Good Samaritan Center, Tyndall.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday at the First Presbyterian Church, Avon. Burial will be in the Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be held from 1-7:30 p.m. today (Thursday) with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel, Avon.
He was born May 28, 1913, on a farm north of Avon to Andreas and Lydia (Hinzman) Pudwill. He attended school through the eighth grade at the Myrtle Country School and two years at Avon High School. He married Harriet Kocmich Sept. 28, 1937, at Dante. They farmed until he retired in 1981. He was a member of the Farmers Union and was a committee member of the ASCS office from 1962 until 1980. He also served on the school board of the Mawhinney School from 1955 to 1969.
He will be remembered for his love of playing cards and visiting with friends and neighbors.
He is survived by his wife, Harriet, Avon; daughter, Norma (LaRaye) Andersen, Yankton; son, Terry (Nancy) Pudwill, Evergreen, Colo.; two grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; four sisters: Johanna Pudwill, Avon; Rose Conklin, Fairmont, Minn.; Alma Hoff, Mitchell, and Luella Voigt, Avon.
He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers.
Calvin “Charlie” Pelton, 73, of Avon died Sunday, February 7, 2010 at St. Michael’s Hospital in Tyndall.
His funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, February 11, 2010 at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Avon, with burial in the Trinity Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the church, followed by a 7 p.m. prayer service. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon is in charge of arrangements.
Calvin Charles “Charlie” Pelton was born August 9, 1936 in rural Avon, South Dakota, the son of Wayne and Viola (Deurmier) Pelton. He died Sunday, February 7, 2010 at St. Michael’s Hospital in Tyndall, SD. Charlie attained the age of 73 years, five months and 29 days.
Charlie began school at Myrtle Country School and graduated from the eighth grade at Mawhinney Country School.
Charlie worked as a farmer with his parents and was briefly employed at Morgan’s in Yankton and the Human Services Center in Yankton. He moved into Avon in 1971, where he worked odd jobs, but was best known for hauling trash and leaves and mowing lawns.
Charlie’s greatest joy was working with horses on the farm. He was always ready to talk about Sam, Dick, Florrie, Charlie and Butte. They were great memories for him. After moving into Avon, he was seen in his green pickup, speeding around town. Those who knew him always knew he would let them pass him up if they were in a hurry.
Charlie entered the Wagner Good Samaritan Society in February of 2002. He transferred to the Tyndall Good Samaritan Society on October 31, 2005. Charlie will be remembered for his “tooling around” in his wheel chair and keeping people on their toes.
Thankful for sharing his life are his two brothers, Larry and wife Charmaine and Ron and wife Linda, all of Avon; four sisters: Evelyn Knoll and Myrtle Reiff, both of Avon; Betty Sandau and husband Lawrence of Tripp; and Carol Draughon and husband, Lattie of Springfield; sister-in-law, Judy Pelton of Avon; and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; brother Donald Pelton; two brothers-in-law: Edgar Knoll and Raymond Reiff; two nephews: Jerry Knoll and James Reiff; and great nephew, Chadrick Haire.
Gladys A. Plaatje, 87, Avon, died Tuesday (Feb. 17, 2004) at Avera Yankton Care Center, Yankton.
Funeral services are at 10 a.m. Friday at First Presbyterian Church, Avon, with burial in Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation begins one hour prior to the service at the church. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home, Avon, is in charge of arrangements.
Gladys was born Nov. 25, 1916, on a farm near Avon to Joseph and Emma (Rehurek) Obr. She attended a rural school west of Avon for eight years and graduated from Avon High School in 1934. Soon after graduation, she was employed as a clerk and bookkeeper at Gelfand's Grocery Store, Avon, for seven years. She married Luverne L. Plaatje Jan. 30, 1938. They made their home in Avon throughout their married life, except for a period of 33 months during World War II when her husband was drafted into active service. Gladys then moved to Tyndall and lived with her two sisters while she worked at the Tyndall Variety Store. After her husband was discharged from the service, they again made their home in Avon, where she worked at the local Gamble store for four years, one year for Marshall Wells, which was owned by Pat Crosby, and from that job transferred to the Crosby Gas Company in 1953. Her husband died Oct. 23, 1970.
She became a member of First Presbyterian Church in April 1942. She was a member of the church choir for a number of years and taught Sunday School for approximately 12 years.
Survivors include her sister, Mabel Lubbers, Wakonda; a brother, Joe Obr, West Des Moines, Iowa; several nieces and nephews and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and two sisters.
Esther J. Ptak, age 90, of Yankton, South Dakota, died Thursday, August 25, 2005 at Avera Sister James Care Center in Yankton.
A funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 29, 2005, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Yankton with Reverend David Gunderson officiating. Burial will be in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Yankton. Visitation is from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, at the Wintz & Ray Funeral Home in Yankton with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Pallbearers are Melvin Ptak, Richard Ptak, Clifford Dvoracek, Jim Schroeder, John Hahn and Donald Uher. Honorary pallbearers are all of her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
Esther was born May 17, 1915 at Clarkson, Nebraska to Joe and Josephine (Fayman) Bukacek. She grew up in Clarkson and graduated from high school there. She then moved to Tabor, South Dakota and lived with her sister and brother-in-law, Libbie and Ernie Dvoracek. On August 2, 1934, she married Adolph Ptak at Clarkson. After their marriage, they lived on a farm southwest of Tabor for 52 years. After Adolph's death on October 20, 1987, she moved to Yankton. During her lifetime, she worked at the Human Services Center in the dietary department for 15 years, then as a cook at a daycare center for 7 years and finally at the Tabor Senior Citizen's Center for 3 years until her retirement. She was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church. She loved the time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Leslie and Francine Ptak of South Sioux City, Nebraska; her daughter and son-in-law, Ardyth and John Ament of Yankton; 7 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three brothers: Jerry, Joe and Bob Bukacek; and two sisters, Lillian Hahn and Libbie Dvoracek.
Leo Pechous, age 89, of Tabor, died early Saturday, May 13, 2006 at Avera St. Michael's Hospital, Tyndall, SD.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Tabor, with Rev. Joe Puthenkulathil officiating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitations will be 4 to 9 p.m. Monday, at the Kostel Funeral Home, Tabor, with a Scripture service followed by a rosary at 7:00 p.m. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Lester Kolda, Dennis Walloch, David Walloch, Tom Sedlacek, Ken Rezac, Mike Kreber, Richard Pechous, and Bob Pechous. Honorary pallbearers will be Mindy Kreber, Roger Schweitzer, Lee and Angie Sayler, and Sandi Kreber.
Leo was born November 2, 1916 on a farm at rural Tabor, SD to James and Catherine (Hlavac) Pechous. He grew up in the Tabor area and attended rural country school. He married Adeline Kortan on April 20, 1937. Together they bought their farm in 1945 and have farmed and worked dairy cattle their entire life. Leo loved Czech music, watching baseball and his favorite team the Minnesota Twins, visiting with people and talking about farm issues, and best of all babysitting for Angie and Mindy Kreber. He was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.
Leo is survived by his son Rodney of Tabor, SD; four brothers Emil of Yankton, SD, Lawrence of Omaha, NE, Sanford of Yankton, SD, and Donald of Yankton, SD; one sister Evelyn Nohava of Tyndall, SD; two brothers Laddie Pechous of Tabor, SD and Raymond Pechous of Rapid City, SD; two grandchildren Denise Platt of Rapid City, SD and Rick Kreber of Springfield, SD.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter and son-in-law Arla and Robert Kreber, brother Joe, sisters Rose and Violet, and step-mother Frances (Vanacek) Pechous.
Irene Rysavy, 95, of Spearfish, formerly of Wagner and Tyndall, SD, died August 25, 2016 at the Belle Fourche Health Care Facility where she lived for the past year.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, August 30, 2016 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Wagner. Immediately following the services, lunch will be served at the church with interment to follow in St. Leo’s Catholic Cemetery in Tyndall. Visitation will be from 3 - 5PM Monday at Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home, Wagner with a Rosary at 7 PM at the church.
Irene was born to Edward and Katherine (Rada) Rysavy on October 3, 1920 in Winner, where she lived until she was 13 years old. She then moved with her parents to a farm south of Colome. In 1934, she moved with her parents 12 miles south of Wagner. In 1935 she graduated the eighth grade from Ree Township School. Irene attended High School in Lake Andes and NYA School in White Lake. After school Irene worked at home and also worked as a housekeeper and nanny for various employers in Omaha, NE. Later, as her mother needed care, Irene moved back home and cared for her parents, until their passing. In 1949, her parents and Roy, her youngest brother, purchased a farm near Tyndall, where they lived until 1985. Irene and Roy then sold the farm and retired. Irene and Roy then moved 12 miles south of Wagner to help their sister Marie with the farm as Marie’s husband, Wesley was unable to farm. After Wesley’s passing, Irene, Roy and Marie purchased a home in Wagner. She lived in Wagner until 2008 when she moved along with Marie to Spearfish to live with her niece, Marjorie & Jeff Flesner.
Irene enjoyed gardening, canning, growing beautiful flowers, baking and fishing. She also enjoyed many bus trips around the states, including Alaska. She was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church and a member of the St. John’s Altar Society. Irene will be remembered especially for her loving care of many family members.
Thankful for having shared her life are her sister Marie’s children: David Thornton (deceased), James Thornton of Wagner, Carol Thornton of Peidmont and Marge Flesner of Spearfish, and their children. Irene is survived by and will be remembered and greatly missed by several nieces and nephews, great nieces/nephews, and great-great nieces/nephews.
Irene was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Edward, John, Leo (Elsie), Joseph (Dorothy), Roy, and sister Marie (Wesley) Thornton.
Mrs. Katerina Reidinger Died, Aged 84 - Wednesday, June 30, marked the passing of another of Tyndall’s pioneer ladies, when Mrs. Katherine Reidinger died at her home here, shortly before 12 o’clock, at the advanced age of 84 years, seven months and five days. Mrs. Reidinger was born in Bohemia, November 20, 1852, coming to this country 68 years age, the past 50 years of which have been spent in Tyndall. Infirmities of old age together with the ravages of cancer were the cause of her death. Funeral services will be held Friday morning at 9 o’clock, from St. Leo’s Catholic church with interment in the cemetery at Tabor, where the lady’s deceased husband, Mathias Reidinger is buried.
Source: The Tabor (SD) Independent ~ July 8, 1937
Mathias Reidinger, one of the early settlers of this county died last Saturday at 4 o’clock in the afternoon of cancer after suffering from the malady for several years. He was 70 years of age at his death and was confined to his bed the past four months. Funeral was held from the local Catholic church Tuesday where a requiem mass was celebrated by Rev. Dooley of Tyndall and sermon in Bohemian delivered by the local pastor, Rev. E. A. Bouska, after which the remains were interred in the cemetery adjoining the church. A very large number of relatives and friends of the old pioneer came to pay their last respect.
The deceased was born in Bohemia and came to the state of Pennsylvania with his wife in 1869 where he had been employed in the mines for 8 years. In 1877 he took up a homestead 6 miles east of Tyndall and farmed it for 15 years. He then moved to Tyndall where he was engaged in business. He was well liked by all who knew him and enjoyed the friendship of all. He leaves a wife (Katerina) and two sons, Frank of Kadoka and Matt who lives in Tyndall, to mourn his loss. Eight of their children having died in past years.
Source: The Tabor (SD) Independent ~ Jan. 8, 1914
Injured when she fell from a wagon returning from town Saturday evening, May 18, 1918, Mrs. Philipp Rempp died at the local hospital to which she was taken a few hours later. The cause of the accident is not known, no one having seen her fall. To her children, she stated that she had become dizzy while riding along and fell from the seat-set on the single wagon box-down behind the horses. It is supposed that the wagon loaded with lumber, passed over her, causing injuries which brought about her demise.
The accident took place at the Frank Walsh hill a few miles north of the Jim River bridge on the Walshtown road. A hired man working for Mat Nelson, had seen her on the wagon while he was working on the field. When he looked up again she was gone, so he went out to the road, stopped the horses and saw her a short distance down the road. Arthur Strunk happened along at that time and picked her up, taking her to Walsh’s gate. Here they were met by Mrs. Bert Lily, who took her in her car up to the Frank Walsh home where Dr. Morehouse was summoned and her children were notified. After the children arrived they took her immediately to the hospital, where she passed away shortly after eleven o’clock.
Anna Hruska was born April 1, 1860, in Vienna, Bohemia, the daughter of Frantisek and Anna (Kosner) Hruska. She came to the United States, with her parents when three years of age. The family first lived in Iowa for about four years, when they then moved to Tabor. She was married twice, one son, Joseph Wolfe, of Madison, Wisconsin, being born to the first union. On December 11, 1892, she married Philipp Rempp and since Mr. Rempp’s death in 1915, she with the children, have operated the farm in Walshtown.
Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Clifford Brewer of Tabor and Elizabeth Rempp of Walshtown; four sons, Joseph Wolfe, of Madison, Wisconsin, and Frank, Francis, and George Rempp, all of Walshtown; two brothers, John Hruska of Tabor and James Hruska of Geddes; and four sisters, Mrs. Mike (Mary) Mader of Geddes, Mrs. Joe (Katie) Bartunik of Avon, Mrs. Joe (Frances) Navratil of Tyndall and Miss Josephine Hruska of Tabor; and several grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and both husbands.
The funeral has been arranged for ten o'clock, May 21, from the Sacred Heart Church. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Yankton, South Dakota.
Source: Daily Press & Dakotan (Yankton, SD) ~ May 20, 1918
Memorial services for Lisa Rudloff, age 47, of Winnetoon, Nebraska will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2016, at Emmanuel Reformed Church, 1112 College Street, Springfield, South Dakota. Reverend Cody Raak will officiate, with burial in Emmanuel Reformed Church Cemetery in Springfield. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church. Brockhaus Funeral Home in Verdigre, Nebraska is in charge of arrangements.
Lisa passed away unexpectedly July 24, 2016, at her home.
Lisa Kay Rudloff was born December 27, 1968, to Melvin and Judy Ludens of Springfield, South Dakota. In 1987, Lisa graduated from Bon Homme High School. She continued her education at Dakota State in Madison, South Dakota. After attending college, Lisa went on to work at Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield, South Dakota as a CO. She then began work at CR Industries and was also a member of the Springfield ambulance crew as an EMT. After the closing of CR Industries, Lisa decided to continue her career in the medical field at Dakota Wesleyan University. She graduated with honors as a registered nurse in 2008.
Lisa married Jason Rudloff on June 16, 2007. She enjoyed farm life and watching Grey’s Anatomy. Lisa was a loving mother and enjoyed raising her family. She was a confirmed member of Emmanuel Reformed Church in Springfield. In 2008, Lisa was diagnosed with a Stage Four brain tumor. Lisa courageously handled the disease until her death.
Thankful for having shared her life are her husband, Jason Rudloff of Winnetoon, Nebraska; her three children, Chris Leasure of Verdigre, Nebraska, Mariah Leasure of Wayne, Nebraska, and Megan Leasure of Winnetoon; her parents; her brother, Jon (Nicky) Ludens and their children, Mallory, Alex, and Evan of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and a host of relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to benefit cancer research.
Michael W. "Mike" Rembold, age 59, of Philip, died Sunday January 29, 2006 at the Fort Meade VA Medical Center, after a year long battle with cancer.
Mike was born June 25, 1946, in Scotland, South Dakota, the son of Walter and Viola (Davis) Rembold. He graduated from Tripp High School in 1964. After graduation he served in the United States Army in the 1st Air Cavalry Division in Vietnam.
On July 27, 1969, Mike was united in marriage to Karen Wright. They were blessed with three children Lori, Jodi, and Garrett.
Mike earned a degree in education at Southern State College. He taught Industrial Arts at Philip High School for thirty years, before retiring from teaching. After retirement, Mike worked as the Superintendent of Lake Waggoner Golf Course for the next few years.
Mike loved to hunt, fish, and golf, and was usually occupied following the PHS students to many of their sport activities. He was known for his sense of humor and practical jokes but yet very sincere and an inspiration to many people.
Blessed to be a part of Mike's life include his wife Karen of Philip; two daughters Lori Aberle and her husband Toby of Sturgis, and Jodi Rembold of Spearfish; a son Garrett Rembold of Black Hawk; Mike's "Littlest Angels" his granddaughters Abigail and Katelyn Aberle; his parents Walter and Viola Rembold of Tripp, South Dakota; a brother Ed Rembold of Tripp; two sisters Linda Huber and her husband Dennis of Freeman, and Norma Garvey and her husband Terry of Yankton; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Mike was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and a niece Heather Muth.
Visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1, at the Philip High School, and one hour preceding the services at the school on Thursday. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, February 2, at the Philip High School, with Pastor Mark Ford officiating. Interment with military honors by the Belle Fourche Honor Guard will be 3:00 p.m., Thursday, at the Black Hills National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established. Rush Funeral Home of Philip is in charge of arrangements.
Jeremy Joel Ritter, 40, of Calhan, Colorado, passed away on July 10, 2016 as a result of a car accident.
Jeremy was born on February 15, 1976 to Gerald and Joan Ritter of Scotland, South Dakota. He graduated from Scotland High School in 1994. He spent several years installing siding and gutters, but his passion for auto mechanics led him to a career as a top technician for Midas in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His goal was to open his own shop someday.
He had a special musical talent as evidenced by his participation in high school band, playing guitar in several local bands, and loved to do karaoke.
He leaves behind his daughter, Breanna Ritter, of Minneapolis, MN; his parents; sisters, Melissa (William) Graham of Mitchell and Tamara Ritter of Rapid City; brothers, Ryan (Dawn) Ritter of Tea, Nathan Ritter of Renner, and Ethan Ritter of Sioux Falls; three nieces; three nephews; aunts, uncles, cousins and the many friends he made along his journey.
He is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, Francis and Mae Ritter and Frank and Esther Burke.
Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 16 at the Goglin Funeral Home in Scotland, SD. Burial will follow at St. George Catholic Cemetery, Scotland at 1:00 p.m. Funeral arrangements are in the care of the Goglin Funeral Home of Scotland.
Colorado State Patrol Investigate Fatal Accident Off Hwy 24
El Paso County, Colo. - A 40-year-old man died in a fatal accident off Highway 24 early Sunday morning (July 10, 2016).
The body of Jeremy Ritter, from South Dakota, was found near his vehicle off East Highway 24 at MP 339 at around 5:30 a.m. by a Colorado Parks and Wildlife official.
Colorado State Patrol believes Ritter failed to make a turn and went off the road. His vehicle rolled several times and eventually ejected him. Ritter reportedly was not wearing a seatbelt.
CSP also expects alcohol and speed to be contributing factors.
This crash is under investigation.
Funeral Mass for George A. Rada, 82, will be at 10 a.m. Monday, April 12 at Vodnany Catholic Church north of Tyndall with the Rev. Adrian Klepac officiating. The body will lie in state all day Sunday at the Petrik Funeral Home with the Rosary at 7:30 p.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Mr. Rada was born March 15, 1889 at Tyndall to Mr. and Mrs. George Rada and died April 6, 1971 at a Yankton hospital. On Sept. 16, 1913 he married Mary Hamberger at Vodnany.
Survivors include his widow; two daughters, Mrs. Emil (Lillian) Holec, Tyndall, and Emma Rada, Tripp; one son, George, Jr., Tripp. He was preceded in death by a daughter, two brothers and five sisters.
Lorraine Marie (Voracek) Ranek was born June 27, 1924, in Tyndall, South Dakota to Joseph and Tillie (Simek) Voracek. After attending eight years in a country school, Lorraine attended high school in Scotland, SD. Lorraine was a member of St. Leo’s Catholic Church where she was baptized, confirmed and on January 3, 1940, united in marriage to Klements James Ranek by Father Dooley. They made their home on a farm south of Tyndall, where they farmed and raised their family.
After the accidental death of her husband on January 14, 1969, Lorraine and her younger children moved into Tyndall. Lorraine received her training and a job as a Certified Nursing Assistant at St. Michael’s Hospital in Tyndall, where she was employed for over 33 years before retiring.
Her tremendous faith and courageous loving spirit carried Lorraine throughout her life. She had a lifelong devotion to her children and grandchildren and their education. Lorraine always enjoyed going to their activities and watching their sporting events.
Lorraine was very active in her church. She was a member of the St. Leo’s Altar Society and the Holy Rosary Court 198. She served on the St. Leo’s Parish Council and for years worked at church bazaars and planned soup kitchens. Lorraine was a Eucharistic minister and a member of the Hospital Auxiliary and the Samaritan Guild. She was a food pantry coordinator and also assisted as a Cub Scout leader. Lorraine enjoyed sewing, making crafts and playing cards. She loved to cook and bake for her family, especially during Christmas. Lorraine liked to travel. A very memorable trip for her was when she went to Rome for the Special Blessing by Pope John Paul II in October of 2000. Lorraine died June 6, 2016 at Majestic Bluffs Senior Living Center in Yankton.
Lorraine is survived by four children: Connie (Jeffrey) Clark and Jeanne Murphy of Denver, CO; Thomas (Lori) Ranek and Kenneth (Karen) Ranek of Tyndall; 17 grandchildren: Kevin Ranek, Jason Clark, Aaron Clark, Amy (Andy) Wein, Kori (Julian) Tonsmeire, Ryan (Stacey) Murphy, Mikki (Chris) Mundorf, Justin (Shawn) Ranek, Travis (Jessica) Ranek, Jesse (Jenna) Ranek, Matt Ranek, Josh (Danielle) Ranek, Amber (Anthony) Galbraith, Mark (Leslie) Ranek, Scott (Julie) Ranek, Kayla Ranek, and Lance Ranek; 25 great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two daughters-in-law Betty Ranek and Debbie Maxwell; one brother Roy Voracek of Yankton; and many nieces and nephews.
Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband Klements, daughter Carol, sons Dale and Michael, granddaughter Sherri Ann Clark, one brother Bill Voracek, eight sisters-in-law and six brothers-in-law.
Visitation will be held at St. Leo Catholic Church, Tyndall on Wednesday, June 8, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. until a 7:00 p.m. wake service. Funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 9 at the church with Fr. Gerald Thury officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Leo Catholic Cemetery, Tyndall. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Goglin Funeral Home of Tyndall.
Elsie Rueb, 97, of Yankton passed away Thursday, August 18, 2005, at the Avera Sister James Care Center in Yankton, SD, where she had been a resident since March of this year.
Services will be 2 p.m. Monday, August 22, 2005, at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon, with the Rev. Robert Neu, officiating. Burial is in the Trinity Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be Monday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon.
Elsie Rueb was born at Avon, South Dakota on February 2, 1908, the daughter of Christ and Amelia (Bauder) Rueb. Elsie attended Rueb School in Avon. She was baptized and confirmed in the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Avon. Elsie worked for several years in Wagner, SD and for many years in California. She had been living in Yankton with her sister, Martha, since 1976.
Thankful for having shared her life are two sisters: Martha Rueb of Yankton and Laura and husband Rudy Freier of Delmont; special friends: Velda Wiggers of Aurora, OR, Fella Strohbehm of San Antonio, TX and Carter Dunlap of San Francisco, CA; four nephews: Don and wife Carol Christjans of Sidney, NE, Jim and wife Jean Christjans of Avon, Terry and wife Celia Freier of Delmont and Ronald Rueb of El Cerrito, CA; and two nieces: Sandra and husband Dave Fink of Filson, NY and Marian and husband Robert Neu of Hartington, NE.
Elsie was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: Robert and Rueben Rueb; one sister, Edith Chrisjans; and one nephew, Larry Freier.
Funeral services for Martha A. Rueb, 96, of Yankton, will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, September 4, 2008, at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Avon, with burial in the Trinity Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 11 a.m. to the time of service.
Martha A. Rueb, daughter of Christ and Amelia (Bauder) Rueb, was born October 19, 1911, at Avon, SD. She died Sunday, August 31, 2008 at the Avera Yankton Care Center in Yankton, SD, where she had lived since August 24, 2006. Martha attained the age of 96 years, ten months and 13 days.
Martha attended Rueb Country School in rural Avon. She was baptized and confirmed at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Avon.
Martha was the care giver to her Grandma Rueb until her death in 1948. Martha then moved to California where she continued being a care giver and homemaker for families. Martha and her sister, Elsie returned to South Dakota in 1976 after their retirement. Martha lived at the Pine Lane Estates in Yankton prior to becoming a resident of the Avera Yankton Care Center.
Martha loved to walk. She will be remembered for her ability to play the piano by ear and often saying, “You’ve got to pray!”
Thankful for having shared her life are her sister, Laura Freier of Yankton and formerly of Delmont; four nephews: Don Christjans and wife, Carol of Sidney, NE, Jim Christjans and wife, Jean of Avon, Terry Freier and wife, Celia of Delmont, and Ronald Rueb of El Cerrito, CA; two nieces: Sandra Fink and husband, Dave of Tillson, NY and Marian Neu of Hartington, NE.
Martha was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: Robert and Rueben Rueb; two sisters: Edith Christjans and Elsie Rueb; brother-in-law, Rudy Freier; nephew, Larry Freier; and nephew-in-law, Robert Neu.
Helen R. Roth, 91, of Avon, died Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at the Springfield Assisted Living Center in Springfield, SD. Funeral services are 10:30 AM, Monday, April 11, 2016 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Avon. Burial is in Zion Lutheran Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be an hour prior to services at the church on Monday.
Helena R. Roth was born November 23, 1924 at Freeman, SD to Christ and Pauline (Wiedmeier) Heckenlaible. She died Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at the Springfield Assisted Living Center in Springfield, SD. Helen was baptized on February 2, 1925 and confirmed on May 28, 1939 at the Reformed Church in Menno. She attended Knodel Country School northeast of Menno.
Helen married Arwin Roth on February 24, 1953. They moved to a farm northeast of Avon where she lived until her husband died in February of 1989. Helen then moved to an apartment in Avon, where she kept busy doing numerous things. She was always active until 1991, when she had a serious accident and had another accident in 1993. She kept busy embroidering and quilting, which she enjoyed doing very much. Helen also loved to play bingo. She moved into the Springfield Assisted Living Center on New Years of 2011. Helen was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Avon. Thankful for having shared her life are Dennis and Carol Streyle of Scotland and their children Becky, Denny, Scott and Heidi; brother Raymond Heckenlaible of Menno; sisters-in-law, Marge Heckenlaible of Yankton and Marcella (Leo) Petrik of Mitchell; and a host of relatives and friends.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband Arwin; parents; brothers: Leon, Lester, LeRoy and half-brother Alfred; half sister Hulda Mehlhaff; sisters-in-law: Carol Roth, Priscilla Heckenlaible, Viola Woehl and Gladys Brunken; and two brothers-in-law: Edwin and Richard Roth.
Kenneth Eldon Relf, 94, passed away quietly at the Coliseum Medical Center in Macon, Georgia on Saturday, December 21 at 5:00 pm. Kenneth was born on the family farm west of Flandreau, South Dakota on July 12, 1919 to Ethel Mae and Charles Harrison Relf. He attended Bell Rural School, District 22, and Flandreau High School and continued his education at the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, where he received his B.S. degree in Physics in 1942. He worked his way through USD and supported his parents while working as chief engineer for KUSD radio and, during the summers, as engineer for WNAX radio in Yankton. Kenneth was a member of Beta Theta Pi at USD. He also was in charge of designing and setting up the public address systems for USD sports events. In March 1942 he was invited to the University of California, Berkeley Radiation Lab by Ernest Lawrence to work on the Manhattan Project, which led to the development of the atomic bomb. On Kenneth’s arrival, Lawrence assigned him the position of chief engineer for the 60-inch cyclotron. Kenneth became widely recognized as an expert on the radio frequency systems of cyclotrons after authoring a book, “The Radio Frequency System of the 60-Inch Cyclotron,” published by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission in 1950. Kenneth received his Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics from Berkeley in 1954; his thesis project, “A Diffusion Cloud Chamber of Unusually Large Dimensions,” was used to study cosmic ray air showers and was displayed in Switzerland in 1956 for the first International Atomic Exposition. He met his wife, Jo Ann Helen Stepanek of Tabor, South Dakota, while in Berkeley and they were married in 1952. They moved to Pittsburgh in 1955, where Kenneth worked for Westinghouse Atomic Power Division, Bettis Field. While at Westinghouse, he was involved in the design of the nuclear reactor for the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, the Nautilus, and authored several chapters of a book for the Navy on nuclear propulsion systems for Naval vessels. He received a letter of commendation from Vice Admiral Hyman Rickover, Director of the Navy’s Nuclear Reactors Branch, for his work on this book and on the Nautilus. While at Bettis Field, he also conducted classes on reactor physics and core thermal design and the design of industrial experiments for scientists and engineers associated with the Naval Reactor Program. In 1959 Kenneth moved with his family to Melbourne, Florida to work on the space program. He re-educated himself on the design and operation of the radars and telescopes used to track missile launches and satellites. He was assigned to a variety of projects including an early assessment for the Air Force on the feasibility of what is now known as the Global Positioning System, and an early evaluation of optical fingerprint identification systems. During the 1960’s, he was also an adjunct professor at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, where he taught experimental design for six years. He also served as a science fair judge for Melbourne and Satellite High Schools, a student counselor at Melbourne High School, and a lecturer at Melbourne and Titusville High Schools on careers in science. He was a member of the American Rocket Society, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), American Institute for Astronautics and Aeronautics, the American Physical Society, and the Society of Sigma Xi. He retired in 1994 at the age of 75. In his private life, Kenneth always spoke fondly of growing up on the family farm west of Flandreau, life in Flandreau, and the community spirit and beauty of South Dakota. He had an endless supply of stories about his family, friends, and growing up in South Dakota, and he visited Flandreau every summer with his family. He also enjoyed spending time with his wife’s family in Tabor, usually timing their visits to coincide with Tabor Czech Days and family reunions. He loved exploring the American West, the mountains, and photography and transmitted this love to his sons. His oldest son, Douglas, earned his BFA in Photography with his father’s urging and support. Kenneth loved nature, hiking, and camping and took his family on many memorable vacations to Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Canada. His family will always remember these trips together.
He was completely devoted to and is survived by his wife, Jo Ann and their two sons, Douglas and Murray, who currently reside in Macon, Georgia. Kenneth will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity, faith, integrity, and inner strength.
There is a Memorial Service at 1:00 pm Monday, June 30, 2014 at 2nd Presbyterian Church, Flandreau.
His family currently resides at 123 Boulder Cove, Macon, Georgia 31220. Memorial contributions can be made to the University of South Dakota Foundation at www.onwardsd.org, or mail a check made to the USD Foundation at the Wagner Center, 1110 N Dakota St, Vermillion, SD 57069.
Jo Ann Helen Relf, 85, of Indian Harbor Beach, Florida, died Monday, February 8, 2016.
Memorial services will be held at a later date in Tabor, South Dakota. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to University of South Dakota Foundation, Tribute Scholarship Fund, P. O. Box 5555, Vermillion, South Dakota 57069.
Mrs. Relf, wife of the late Dr. Kenneth Eldon Relf, was born March 9, 1930, the daughter of the late Charles Stepanek and the late Helen Dvorak Stepanek. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Public Performance-Piano from Carnegie Mellon University. Mrs. Relf was an officer and a member of National Music Teachers’ Association, Brevard Music Teachers’ Association and Florida State Music Teachers’ Association. She was also a member of the American Matthay Associates and Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary of Tabor, South Dakota.
Mrs. Relf is survived by her sons, Douglas Relf and Murray Relf, both of Macon.
Hart’s Mortuary and Crematory, Cherry Street, Macon, Georgia has charge of arrangements.
NEWPORT BEACH - William D. Ray, who chaired the parent company of the Balboa Bay Club, died Sunday night at Hoag Hospital after an extended illness. He was 57.
Ray, chairman and chief executive officer of International Bay Clubs Inc., was a well-known fisherman and hunter who won several conservation awards and other honors.
In 1988, he was inducted into the International Hall of Fame for his conservation efforts, according to Balboa Bay Club officials. In 1986, the American Red Cross presented him with its Spirit Award. The Dayle McIntosh Center for the Disabled gave him its "Apple of Our Eye" award for his efforts to teach fishing and provide recreational opportunities for handicapped children in Orange County.
Ray, a member of the Republican National Committee, was one of seven members of Intercom, a presidential advisory board on matters jointly affecting the U.S. departments of Interior and Commerce.
Born in Avon, S.D., Ray ran away from home when he was 13 and enlisted in the National Guard, only to be thrown out when officers learned his true age, according to Balboa Bay Club officials.
Later, he became a paratrooper in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division.
After a varied college career, he became chief loan officer at Great Western Bank, where he helped finance the development of University Park in Irvine.
In 1967, Ray joined MACCO Realty, where his projects included the California Apartment Series, Leadership Homes, Coto de Caza and Scripps Miramar Ranch.
Ray founded International Bay Clubs Inc. 20 years ago and acquired the Balboa Bay Club from movie and television producer Jack Wrather. He later acquired the lease for what is now the BBC Racquet Club.
In 1980, IBC purchased Port of the Islands Resort, a 500-acre complex in the Florida Everglades. The firm later bought the Newport Beach Country Club, Outdoor Safaris International, Outdoor Ventures Publishing Co., which publishes California Angler and South Coast Sportfishing magazines, and the leases on four Orange County lakes.
Four months ago, however, Ray's company failed to win city approval for a $60-million expansion of the Balboa Bay Club that would have created a new 300-room hotel. Residents had complained that such a big complex might obscure their coveted ocean views and cause traffic jams.
Negotiations over the project are continuing.
Ray is survived by his wife, Beverly Hudgins Ray, and three children from a previous marriage, Holly Ray of Newport Beach, Jon Ray of Naples, Fla., and Adam Ray of San Francisco. He is also survived by a brother, Charles Ray of Naples, Fla.; a sister, Arlis Fousek of South Dakota, and two grandchildren, Brendan and Caitlin Fenno.
Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday in the chapel of Pacific View Memorial Park, 3500 Pacific View Drive, Newport Beach. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. After the services, a memorial celebration will be held at the Balboa Bay Club.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions in Ray's name be made to United Anglers of Southern California, in care of Mary Lou McLaren at the Balboa Bay Club.
Source: Los Angeles (California) Times ~ December 17, 1991
Alice Rotchadl, age 86, of Mankato, died Sunday, January 10, 2016 in Mankato, MN.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 14 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Mankato, with Rev. John Kunz officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00- 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the church. Burial will be in St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in Tabor SD. Mankato Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.
Alice was born February 16, 1929 at Tyndall, SD to Stanley and Agnes (Schuch) Carda. She attended school in Bon Homme County and graduated from high school in Springfield, SD, and then from Southern State Teachers College in Springfield, SD. Alice taught in schools in Bon Homme County until her marriage. She and her husband Tony lived in Brookings, SD and later moved to Storden, MN, Marshall MN, and then North Mankato. Alice was a homemaker as more children were born into the family. After moving to North Mankato her family joined Holy Rosary Church where she was very active in parish and school organizations. Alice taught CCD for 10 years. She was also the President of CCW at Holy Rosary and the Chairwoman of Circles for many years. Alice also served on the Social Concerns committee and was a Eucharistic Minister at Holy Rosary for several years. Alice also worked at Carlson Craft in North Mankato for 10 years.
Alice was united in marriage to Anton "Tony" Rotchadl on November 4, 1947 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Tabor, SD. To this union were born eight children. Throughout all of these years her energy and love was poured into her children and increasing numbers of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In their later years, Alice and Tony enjoyed their part-time winter home in Mesa, AZ as well as their part-time home in Mankato. They enjoyed visiting relatives and friends in both Mankato and Tabor. Alice was quick to meet new people and make new friends wherever they traveled. She especially treasured her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Alice is survived by her eight children: Barbara (David) Schulz of Faribault, Richard (Elizabeth) Rotchadl of North Mankato, David (Kathleen) Rotchadl of Indianapolis, IN, Douglas (Kathy) Rotchadl of Kasson, Daniel (Kim) Rotchadl of Mankato, Donald (Vanessa) Rotchadl of Owatonna, Pamela Jean (Hal) Rotchadl of Gilbert, AZ, and Dean (Robin) Rotchadl of North Mankato; 28 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Anna, Agnes and Irene; and her many friends at Keystone.
Alice was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Tony, and four sisters: Nettie, Mary, Vincie and Betty.
RAPID CITY | James R. “Rollie” Robbins, 93, passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2015, at the Meadowbrook Golden Living Center. He was born Nov. 7, 1921, in Tyndall to Guy and Delia (Allen) Robbins. Rollie was the youngest of 16 children.
Rollie’s early years were spent in Hermosa and Rapid City. When WWII broke out in 1941, he was working as a mechanic at Smith and Jones Garage in Rapid City. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps on July 25, 1942, and was Honorably Discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant on Dec. 7, 1945. While in the service, Rollie worked as an airplane maintenance technician with the 9th Air Division in England, France and Belgium. He worked as a crew chief in charge of maintaining C-47’s while in flight and he also supervised ground repairs and maintenance.
After returning from military service, Rollie and Carney Steele began building houses around Rapid City. He continued to build and remodel houses until his retirement.
On Sept. 22, 1947, he married Florence Foley in Sturgis. Florence passed away in 2008.
He loved to hunt and fish, whether it was deer hunting in the Black Hills, pheasant hunting in eastern South Dakota or going fishing for crappies, walleye or northern pike.
As his health declined, he moved into an assisted living home and later a nursing home. He enjoyed the visitors that stopped by to see him and especially loved to see his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Rollie is survived by his sons, Craig, Stuart (Pam) and Kirk (Lori); seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Mildred McDermott.
Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, April 12, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home, with 6 p.m. prayer services led by Pastor Scott Hultgren.
Interment will be at 10 a.m. Monday, April 13, at Mountain View Cemetery, with military honors.
Charles R. Robbins, 92, of Black Hawk died Tuesday, February 5, 2013 at Custer Regional Senior Care.
He was born April 14, 1920 in Tyndall, SD to Guy E. and Delia (Allen) Robbins. Charles married Muriel Rupert in 1940 in Grand Rapids, Minn. He was baptized a Witness in 1955. They moved to Rapid City permanently in 1961.
Charlie was the Robbins in Robbinsdale and built many homes in the Rapid City area after the second World War and was a member of the Carpenters Union for over 50 years.
Charles is survived by his three sons; Douglas Robbins, Black Hawk, Adelbert Robbins, Wasilla, Alaska and Ronald Robbins, Trapper Creek, Alaska, 16 grandchildren, including Heather Robbins, Rapid City, 29 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren, 3 siblings; Eleanor Bruns, Rapid City, Rollie Robbins, Rapid City and Mildred McDermott, Missouri.
A visitation will be offered from 5:00pm until 7:00pm Thursday, February 7 at Edstrom & Rooks Funeral Service, Serenity Springs Chapel of Tranquility in Rapid City and informally from 10:00am until noon. Graveside services will be held at 1:00pm, Friday, February 8 at Pine Lawn Memorial Park with Elder Dwight Ahlers officiating.
Mary E. Rezac, 97 of Dante, died Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Society in Tyndall. Mary attained the age of 97 years, nine months and three days.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 12 at Assumption Catholic Church in Dante, with burial in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, rural Dante. Visitation will be at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Wagner Friday from 1 to 5 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. rosary/wake service at the church.
Mary Emma Rezac, daughter of Jospeh and Emma (Rados) Slaba, was born March 7, 1918 at Geddes, SD. Mary received her eighth grade education at Geddes. She married Louis E. Rezac on September 10, 1940 at St. Ann Catholic Church in Geddes. Louis bought a farm south of Dante where she was a "farmer’s wife" for 60 years. Their union was blessed with eight children. Louis died January 4, 2002. Due to failing health, Mary became a resident of the Good Samaritan Society in Tyndall on January 13, 2014.
Mary was a member of the Assumption Catholic Church in Dante, Catholic Daughters, K. D. Workmen and Altar Soceity.
Mary will be remembered for her enjoyment of her hobbies which include gardening, baking (especially kolaches), playing cards (especially pinochole) and bringing up eight children.
Thankful for having shared her life are her children: Darlene (Robert) Kolda of Yankton; Stephen (Arlene) of Wagner; Lavern (Marcella "Sally") of Dante; Dorothy Fink of Delmont; Daniel of Dante; Romaine (Ruby) of Harrisburg; Juliann (Paul) Tolsma of Avon; and Michael of Renner; 26 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Helen Rezac of Springfield.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband Louis; parents; three brothers: Charlie, Oscar and Alvin; two sisters: Maggie Slaba and Alvina Soukup; three grandsons: Justin Tolsma, Benjamin and Ryan Rezac; son-in-law, Robert Fink; and daughter-in-law, Laurie Rezac.
Helen L. Ridgway, age 80, Yankton, passed away Thursday, March 11, 2004, at her residence.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 15, 2004, at Calvary Baptist Church, Yankton, with Rev. Shane VanDorin and Dr. Jack Smith officiating. Burial will be in the Yankton Cemetery. Visitations will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Kostel Funeral Home of Yankton is in charge of arrangements. Pallbearers will be Jim O'Brien, Jeff O'Brien, John Martin, Joseph Martin, Bill Ridgway, Jr., Jonathan Ridgway, BJ Coulsen, Tom Kautz, Jr., Todd Kautz, Jamey Pick and Jeremy Pick. Honorary pallbearers will be her granddaughters and great-grandchildren.
Helen L. was born on July 26, 1923, to Fred C. and Francis (Glasner) Voigt in Avon, SD. She graduated from Avon High School in 1941. On September 26, 1941, she married Charles M. Ridgway in Hartington, NE. She was employed at the Human Services Center for 28 years. After retiring, she enjoyed her children and grandchildren, her flowers, Bible study, Church and her dog Sparky.
Her memory will be cherished by her children: Charlotte (Jim) O'Brien of Lemar, IN; Betty (Dick) Martin of Denver, CO; Bill (Jackie) Ridgway of Yankton, SD; Bonnie (Ken) Johnson of Yankton, SD; Sheryl (Robert) Pick of Norfolk, NE; and Rick Ridgway of Yankton, SD; her brother, Fred Voigt of Avon, SD; 20 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two sisters and two brothers.
Funeral services for Arthur O. Ridgway, 67, will be Wednesday at Crosby Funeral Home chapel in Wagner at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Robert McBride officiating. Burial will be in the Wagner cemetery.
Mr. Ridgway was born May 8, 1905 at Avon. He died Dec. 18, 1972 at a Wagner hospital.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Viola Potter, Tyndall and Mrs. Delores Brewer, Cottonwood, Ariz.; a son, James, Yankton; five sisters, Mrs. Charles Dunsmore, Edgemont; Mrs. William Dunsmore, Tyndall; Mrs. Ben Stach, Sioux Falls; Mrs. Frank Laska, Lake Andes; and Mrs. Fred Voight, Avon; three brothers, Albert, Wagner; Richard, Avon; and Charles, Yankton; 18 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
James Rothschadl, 74, of Tyndall, South Dakota passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2015 at Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Visitation will be held at St. Leo Catholic Church, Tyndall, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4. Also held at the church that evening will be a rosary at 6:30 p.m. followed by a wake service at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 5 at the church. Burial will follow in the St. Leo Catholic Cemetery in Tyndall. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Good Samaritan Society of Tyndall or the Tyndall Fire Department. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Goglin Funeral Home of Tyndall.
James Emil Rothschadl was born on January 24, 1941 to Emil and Leantine (Schneider) Rothschadl in rural Tyndall, South Dakota. He attended Nedved rural school and graduated from Tyndall High School in 1959. On June 28, 1969, James was united in marriage to Mae Pavlish at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Tyndall. For many years, James farmed with his father and worked at Soukup Implement until 1971. He then worked with the SD Department of Highways until 1993 at which time he and his wife purchased the Bottle Shop in Tyndall. They later retired in 2006.
James was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved attending the "boys" activities and watching the Minnesota Vikings. He also enjoyed the family trips and visiting with his friends in the morning at the Bottle Shop. James would also spend his time caring for his garden and feeding his "livestock," the many birds and squirrels. He was active in St. Leo’s Catholic in Tyndall, and served as a Eucharistic Minister and member of the Knights of Columbus for many years.
James passed away on Sunday, November 1 at Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls after a long, courageous battle of heart disease. He had attained the age of 74 years, nine months and eight days.
Thankful for having shared his life are wife of 46 years, Mae Rothschadl of Tyndall; son Tim Teabo of Sioux Falls; daughter Paulette (Shannon) Peters of Tyndall; grandsons: Brady Rothschadl and girlfriend Katelynn Fischer of Rapid City and Connor Peters of Tyndall; sister Arlene Kronaizl of Tyndall; brothers: Ken (Marilyn) Rothschadl of Tyndall and John (Donna) Rothschadl of Yankton; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law Adolph and Mamie Pavlish, brother-in-law Ray and Carol (Schneider) Pavlish and brother-in-law Tom Kronaizl.
Allen E. Rados, age 73, of Yankton, South Dakota, died Saturday, August 29, 2015 at Wakonda Heritage Manor in Wakonda, South Dakota.
Memorial services are 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1 at the Wintz & Ray Funeral Home in Yankton with Reverend Dani Jo Ninke officiating. Burial will be in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Yankton with military honors provided by the Ernest-Bowyer VFW Post No. 791 and SD Army National Guard. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the memorial at the funeral home.
Allen was born November 8, 1941 in Avon, South Dakota to Joseph and Grace (Kuca) Rados. He grew up in the Wagner area and attended Lone Tree No. 5 country school. He then helped on the family farm before enlisting in the United States Army in December 1963. Allen and was stationed in Ft. Richardson, Alaska and Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio and received his GED and then Dental Assistance Training. Allen was discharged from the Army in November 1964 to help on the farm because of his father’s farming accident. In 1976, he moved to Yankton and worked at Boller Printing for six years and then Domino’s Pizza for 14 years. Allen also spent the last 20 years delivering several newspapers including the Yankton County Observer, Yankton Press and Dakotan, Argus Leader and Missouri Valley Shopper.
Thankful for having shared his life are his brother, Clayton Rados of rural Dante, South Dakota; sister, JoAnne (Richard) Ishmael of Altamont, Illinois; two nieces; one nephew; and nine great nieces and nephews.
Allen was preceded in death by his parents; aunts, Olive Buus, Wilma Hennies, Edith Goodoein, Alice Duncanson, Mary Andersh and Barb Kafka; and an uncle, Richard Kuca.
Glen G. Radel, age 89, passed away early Wednesday, August 19, 2015 at the Good Samaritan Center, Tyndall, SD. Funeral services will be Saturday, August 22 at 1:30 p.m. at the Riverview Reformed Church with Rev. Rod Veldhuizen officiating. Burial will follow the service in the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Yankton, SD. Visitations will be Friday, August 21 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory. Visitations will resume one hour prior to the service at the church. Pallbearers will be Emily Wageman, Hanna Marvin, Ben Radel, Drew Lange, Eric Lange and Shane Snyder.
Glen was born June 22, 1926 at Alexandria, SD to William and Leah (Lang) Radel. He grew up in the Emery area and attended country school through the eighth grade. He then helped with the family farm until he married Delores Mogck on November 30, 1947. Together they farmed between Parkston and Olivet until 1984 when they moved to their home on Lewis and Clark Lake, Yankton, SD. He remained dedicated to the farm by helping his son who was now farming full time. Delores passed away in 1999. Glen married Marie Lane on September 30, 2000 at Riverview Reformed Church and they made their home in Yankton, SD. Glen became a resident of the Tyndall Good Samaritan Center, Tyndall, SD in 2010. Glen loved to farm and never really retired! He loved to hunt and fish and play cards with friends and family.
Glen is survived by his children: Imy (Dave) Snyder of Salem, SD, Tam (Tom) Abbenhaus of Portland, OR and Vonda (Dale) Lange of Crofton, NE; his brother, Don (Virginia) Radel of Mitchell, SD; 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Son Lonn and Brother Laverne.
Sophie Rahn, age 84, Yankton, passed away Thursday, Aug. 22, 2002, at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 26, 2002, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Yankton, with Rev. Gregg Frankman officiating. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Yankton. Visitations will be 1-9 p.m. at the Kostel Funeral Home, Yankton, with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. followed by a scripture service at 7 p.m.
Sophie was born April 5, 1918, to Thomas and Christina (Pibal) Kronaizl in Tabor, South Dakota. She married Rodney Rasmussen Oct. 4, 1942. He passed away Aug. 22, 1946. She worked for Means Dry Cleaning for six years. She then married Arnold (Bud) Rahn on June 8, 1953. They owned and operated multiple service stations in Yankton. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and VFW Ladies Auxiliary.
Sophie is survived by her husband, Arnold (Bud) of Yankton; one son, Roger (Debbie) Rasmussen of Wasilla, Alaska.; one daughter, Marinell (Brian) Bailey of Brandon, S.D.; three grandchildren: Ryan Rasmussen of Ashland, Ore.; Reid Rasmussen of Anchorage, Alaska; and Christina Rasmussen of Wasilla, Alaska; one brother, Charlie Kronaizl of Tacoma, Wash.; and one sister, Anna Plavec of Springfield, S.D.
She was preceded in death by her parents, first husband and other brothers and sisters.
Larry H. Raabe was born April 15, 1945 to Herbert and Sarah (VanAsperen) Raabe in Avon, SD. He was raised on the family's farm with four siblings and attended LoneTree #53 Country School in Dante, SD. He attended Avon High School, a place where lifetime memories for him were made in football, basketball, track, student government and countless friendships.
In 1965, Larry graduated from the Sacred Heart Hospital School of Medical Technology and began working as a Histotechnologist in Aberdeen, SD where he met the love of his life, Lil Mitzel. They were married October 28, 1967 in Aberdeen and shortly thereafter moved to Sioux Falls, SD where Larry worked as Supervisor of the Histology Department for the Laboratory of Clinical Medicine for 27 years. In 1995 there was a merger with then Sioux Valley Hospital where he worked as Histology Technical Supervisor until his retirement in 2000. Larry's work ethic and selfless dedication to providing the absolute highest quality of slides to the pathologists he worked for was paralleled only by the loyalty and pride he had for his family. He was a quiet and humble testament to doing the right thing no matter the cost, working hard and doing your best; so that at the end of the day it was not words or lectures that taught his children how to live a reverent life, it was, very simply, his example.
Larry loved people, conversation, snowmobiling, fishing, the Minnesota Vikings, cooking, movies and old cars. He was genuinely and sincerely interested in knowing everything there was to know about everyone he met. When he asked you about your family name, your hometown, where you went to school he listened to your answers and he remembered what you said. He always had a story or a joke and he loved to make people laugh. He was adored by his grandchildren who called him papa and gave him high fives.
Special memories include his annual trip to Minneapolis with his son to see the Vikings play and the countless conversations with his daughter about life's tribulations and victories. A lifetime of memories shared with Lil include square dancing, snowmobile trips, basketball games, marching band competitions and a much joked about Hawaiian cruise which was cut short by a serious case of sea sickness. In good times and bad, Larry and Lil were soul mates.
Beyond this words seem inadequate to describe a man so loved. He was generous to a fault; a loyal and devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He will be forever missed. To the world he was just one man but to his family he was the whole world.
Larry died on Wednesday, November 17, 2010, in Sioux Falls, SD at the age of 65 years, 7 months, and 2 days.
Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Lil; two children, Lori Hagen and Tony, Sioux Falls, SD, Lance Raabe and his wife, Molly, Omaha, NE; four grandchildren, Samuel Raabe, Meaghan Raabe, Nicolas Hagen, Emersyn Hagen; three siblings, Audrey Stevens and her husband, Gary, Yankton, SD, Elaine Leraas and her friend, Bill VanderWoude, Sioux Falls, SD, Lee Raabe and his wife, Theresa, Sioux Falls, SD; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Arlys Oliver.
Charles “Chuck” Rezac, age 69, died on Thursday, April 16, 2015 at Avera Dougherty Hospice House.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 21, 2015 at George Boom Funeral Home in Sioux Falls. Visitation will begin at 3:00 PM on Monday at the funeral home the family will present to greet friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a prayer service to begin at 7:00 PM.
Charles “Chuck” Eugene Rezac was born January 9, 1946 in Avon, SD, to Charles Clinton and Helen (Hale) Rezac. The family made their home on a farm near Dante, SD and it is there where Chuck was raised. Following high school Chuck enlisted into the United States Army and honorably served with the Army and Army National Guard until his discharge in 1971.
On July 3, 1969 Chuck was united in marriage to Linda Lagendyk in Sioux Falls, SD, from this union they were blessed with two daughters, Trisha and Stephanie. The family made their home in Sioux Falls and then Valley Springs, SD before Linda’s death on November 28, 1994.
In 1996 Chuck met and fell in love with Darlene “Dee” Rotter. The couple lived in the community of Centerville, SD before making their home in Sioux Falls, SD.
Chuck was a member of American Legion Post 15 in Sioux Falls, SD.
Chuck loved spending time outdoors and cherished working on the farm as well as working in his flower and vegetable gardens. He loved all animals currently having a dog, Chopper and two cats, Mitty and BeBe. Chuck was an accomplished musician, playing the accordion; while in his younger years playing in a local band. He enjoyed listening to Polka music, watching western movies and the Green Bay Packers. Chuck was an excellent cook and even cooked at the American Legion in Sioux Falls. Above all he loved spending time with his family and friends.
Grateful for having shared his life are his daughters: Trisha Rezac of Tea, SD and Stephanie Even and her husband, Kyle of Sioux Falls, SD; mother, Helen Rezac of Tyndall, SD; four grandchildren: Tyler Swenson, Mill Lake, IA, Shannon Swenson, Sioux Falls, SD, Nicholas and Carter Even of Sioux Falls, SD; two brothers: Tom Rezac and his wife, Helena of Omaha, NE, and Alvin Rezac and his wife, Terri of Dante, SD; significant other, Darlene Rotter of Sioux Falls, SD; her children: Buffie Rotter, Gunner Rotter and his wife, Angie of Tea, SD, and Brendan Rotter and his wife, Abbey of Harrisburg, SD; their children, Taylor, Jacob, Emma, Thomas and Henry Rotter; and a host of other relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Rezac and wife, Linda Rezac.
Arlene M. Ratzlaff, 63, Philip, formerly of Avon, died Thursday (June 22, 2000) at her residence in Philip.
First funeral services are at 10 a.m. today (Saturday) at the Community Evangelical Free Church in Philip with the Rev. Gary Wahl officiating. Pallearers are Arthur McIlravy, Rod Knutson, Roger Schulz, Robert Berry, Bill O'Connor and Larry Hanes. Visitation will be held one hour before the services at the church. The Rush Funeral Home, Philip, is in charge of arrangements.
A second funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the Friedensburg Mennonite Church, rural Avon. Interment will be in the Friedensburg Mennonite Cemetery, rural Avon. Pallbearers are Jason Ratzlaff, Byron Pudwill, Ron Ratzlaff, Leonard Ratzlaff, Jamin Ratzlaff, Carson Larson and Cal Ratzlaff. Visitation will be held from 1-5 p.m. Sunday with the family present between 4-5 p.m. at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Avon and one hour before the services at the church on Monday.
Arlene M. Ratzlaff was born February 15, 1937, on a farm near Avon, South Dakota, the daughter of Ezra and Olive (Sowyer) Ratzlaff.
She grew up in the Avon community and attended rural grade school at Mennonite School, District 41. Arlene graduated from Avon High School at the top of her class in 1955.
Arlene spent over 40 years as an educator. She received her teaching degree from Southern State Teachers College at Springfield, South Dakota. She taught in the towns of Hot Springs, Onida, McLaughlin and Mud Butte before coming to Philip in 1965, where she retired in June of 1977 as the school librarian.
Arlene attended and was active in her church at the Community Evangelical Free Church of Philip.
Arlene died June 22, 2000, at her home in Philip, SD.
Thankful for having shared her life are her sister, Ellen and her husband, Red, of Tea, South Dakota, their children: Byron (Ginger) Pudwill of Springfield, and their two children, Katie and Kelsey, and Julie (Carson) Larson of Columbia, SD, and their two children, Emily and Wyatt; her brother, Jim and his wife, Leanne, of Sioux Falls, and their children, Jason (JoLynn) Ratzlaff of Columbus, Nebraska, Sharla Ratzlaff and Jamin Ratzlaff, both of Sioux Falls.
Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, Ezra and Olive Ratzlaff.
Jim E. Ratzlaff, age 61, passed away in his sleep, at home on Thursday August 2, 2007.
Jim was born on July 12, 1946, in Avon, SD, to Ezra and Olive Ratzlaff. Jim graduated from Avon High School in 1964. He received a teaching degree from Southern State Teachers College, in Springfield, SD. He then went on to get his Masters Degree at Tahlequah, OK.
Jim was united in marriage with Leanne (Bertus) on June 7, 1968, in Avon, SD. Jim was a middle school counselor in Columbus, NE, before taking a job as a counselor at Washington High School in Sioux Falls, SD.
Jim enjoyed time spent with his wife, three children, and extended family, hunting, fishing, and following Nebraska Football. He had a heart for the young people he taught and counseled and enjoyed the wonderful staff with whom he worked. In retirement he enjoyed interacting with the paratransit friends.
Surviving Jim are his wife Leanne and their three children; Jason (JoLynn) Ratzlaff, Schuyler, NE, Sharla Ratzlaff and Jamin (Angela) Ratzlaff, all of Sioux Falls; a sister, Ellen (Red) Pudwill, Mitchell, SD; and two precious grandchildren, Jaedyn Jo and Jordyn Jasie.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Arlene Ratzlaff.
Visitation will begin at 8am on Sunday August 5, 2007, with the family present to greet friends from 3 to 5pm at Miller Funeral Home, 13th & Main. A funeral service will be held at 10am on Monday August 6, 2007, at Memorial Lutheran Church with burial at Hills of Rest Memorial Park.
Gale W. "Rip" Rohr, age 75, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Sunday, February 10, 2008 at a Milbank, SD care center. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Watertown with Rev. Eric Grinager officiating. Music was furnished by the First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir accompanied by Karen Mee. Interment be at St. Mary's Cemetery, Watertown, SD. Military honors were conducted by the Codington County Post 17 of the American Legion. Visitation was held on Wednesday, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel, and on Thursday prior to services at the church. Honorary Pallbearers were members of the Quarterback Club. Active Pallbearers were Harley Petersen, Dale McElhany, Judean Schwinger, Jerry McElroy, Merle Heidenreich, Bob Forbush and Jeff Kranz.
Gale Warren Rohr was born on April 22, 1932 to Albert and Arley (Sweet) Rohr at Scotland, South Dakota. He grew up in Scotland and graduated from Scotland High School and Southern State Teachers College. He entered the U.S. Marine Corp in 1954 and retired as First Lieutenant in 1956.
On February 19, 1955 he married Hope L. Walliser at Oceanside, California. The couple moved to Watertown in 1957 and Rip taught school for 30 years.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and sang in the church choir for 30 years. He was a member of the Quarterback Club and Golden K Club and was a former member of the Watertown Elks Lodge. He was inducted in the Southern Hall of Fame, and received the 25 year Coaching Award, Friend of Football, was an Honorary Referee of Watoma and the Chain Gang for Football.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and an infant son, Jeffrey.
He is survived by his wife, Hope; one son, Todd (Kathleen) Rohr of Indianapolis, IN; one daughter, Nancy (Jeff) Kranz of Barksdale AFB, LA; a sister-in-law, JoAnn Freidel of Scotland, SD; one brother-in-law, Robert "Spud" Grosshuesch of Yankton; and his nieces and nephews.
Alice Reit, 79 of Harrisburg, died Monday, November 27, 2006 at Southridge Healthcare Center.
Alice Berndt was born October 19, 1927 in Tyndall, SD, to Arthur and Louise (Grimme) Berndt. She grew up in the Tyndall area and graduated from Tyndall High School.
She was united in marriage to Herman Reit on July 10, 1948 at Luverne, Minnesota. They made their home in Sioux Falls before moving to Harrisburg where they lived for 46 years. She was employed at John Morrell Co. until her retirement.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Harrisburg since 1959.
She enjoyed crocheting afghans and was famous for her popcorn balls at Halloween.
Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Herman, one brother Bud and two infant brothers.
Grateful for having shared her life are: her children, John (Jeri) Reit of Harrisburg, SD, JoAnne Reit (special friend Jeff) of LaCrosse, WI, Carroll Reit, of Brandon, SD, Darla (Steve) Enger of Sioux Falls; four grandchildren; three sisters, Arliss Hellman, Sharon Olson,and Martha Christopherson; three brothers, Bill, Loren and Myron Berndt.
Funeral services will be Friday, December 1, 2006 at the United Methodist Church in Harrisburg with burial in Pleasant View Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at Heritage Funeral Home with the family present from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorials maybe directed to the United Methodist Church in Harrisburg.
Funeral services were to be conducted at 11 a.m. today at St. Peter's Church in Cripple Creek for Anna Mary Reifenrath of Cripple Creek who died there Tuesday (March 16, 1971).
Father Charles Conaty was to officiate and burial was to be in Evergreen Cemetery in Colorado Springs.
Mrs. Reifenrath was born in Tabor, S.D. April 27 1875. She had been a resident of Marysville, Mo., where she was married in May 1905. She moved to Colorado in 1917 and became a resident of Cripple Creek in 1919.
Mrs. Reifenrath was affiliated with St. Peters Church in Cripple Creek and was a member of the Alter and Rosary Society.
Surviving are, a daughter, Mrs. L. J. Kosater, of Springfield, Ohio; a son, J. William Reifenrath, of Colorado Springs, and five grandchildren.
Richard J. Renschler, Sr., 88, of Waco, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2006, in Providence Hospital. Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 2, at the OakCrest Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jack Mullins officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery with military honors from the U.S. Air Force. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at OakCrest Funeral Home.
Richard was born in Avon, S.D., to George and Rosina (Schmidt) Renschler, and had three brothers and three sisters. His Dad, from Russia, and his Mom, from Germany, met on a ship enroute to America. Richard became a Christian in his childhood and was Lutheran all his life. He met his wife, Norma Dean Dupre, in 1942, when he came to Waco to attend the U.S. Army's Waco Flying School. They married on June 13, 1942, at the Waco Wedding Chapel on Elm Street and their union spanned 63 years of marriage.
Richard was the first draftee of World War II, when his number was pulled out of the bin by President Roosevelt and announced by the press nationally. When Richard finished his U.S. Army Air Corps tour, with an honorable discharge, he began the Renschler Radiator Shop in 1944. Richard and Norma had two sons, Richard J. Renschler, Jr. and Thomas Wayne Renschler, both who reside in Waco and run the parent company, which is now Renschler's Automotive. Richard was involved in all the activities that his sons were in, which, over the years, included participation in soapbox derbies, bowling, golf, camping, dominoes, boating and fishing. He enjoyed gardening, because he had grown up on a farm, and grew tomatoes and watermelons in his backyard. He loved dogs and horses and he especially enjoyed horse races, bingo, visiting with bingo and domino buddies, and telling stories about Waco in the early days of the Cotton Palace, old-fashioned soda fountains, Diamond Hamburger's, the Waco tornado, and the Austin Avenue drag. Richard retired from Renschler's in 1970 when he turned the business over to his sons. He and Norma Dean did everything together from that time on. They enjoyed bingo, dominoes, traveling, and participating in school and sport activities of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even in his 80's, he is remembered fondly for jumping on trampolines with grandchildren, riding on motorcycles, and making German homemade pickles.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma Dean, on Dec. 11, 2005; and a brother.
Richard is survived by his sons, Richie and Tom; grandchildren, Tierny Renschler Kruger, of Woodway, Kriste Renschler Bogans, of Oceanside, California, and, Skyler Burleson Renschler, of Waco; five great-grandchildren; daughters-in-law, Beverly Renschler and Dana Renschler, both of Waco; brothers, Hugo Renschler, of Vermillion, South Dakota, and Alvin Renschler, of Meckling, South Dakota; and sisters, Ella Renschler Severson, of Vermillion, South Dakota; Linda Renschler Clay, of Vermillion, South Dakota; and Leah Renschler LaFerrea, of Shelton, Washington; and many other family members and friends.
Alvin Edwin Renschler, 91, of Tehama, California, went to meet his Lord God Almighty and his beloved wife, Ruth, on August 20, 2007, after suffering a stroke. He moved to California from Meckling in May 2007 to live with one of his daughters and live close to his other daughter.
Mr. Renschler was born on July 3, 1916, in Avon to George and Rosina Renschler. He married Ruth Deurmier of Avon. They were married for 67 years. They lived on a farm in Avon and later moved to the Vermillion area where they farmed for many years. He also worked as a carpenter at the electrical power plant in Iowa.
He was a member of the Eagles since the 1940s, an honorary member of the South Dakota Sheriff's Association and a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Vermillion.
He is survived by daughters: Clarice Marie Renschler of Los Molinos, CA and Diann Phillis of Tehama, CA, and son, Nylis Renschler of Meckling. He is also survived by two sisters: Linda Klave of Vermillion, Leah Lafferriere of Washington; and one brother, Hugo Renschler of Vermillion; five grandsons: Mark and Tim Bell, Craig Phillis and David Renschler of California, Nylis Gene Renschler II of Germany and a granddaughter, Kari Ann Blevins of Iowa; 15 great-grandchildren: Katie and Amanda Bell of Texas, Sarah and Bailey Phillis of California, Dakota (Renschler) Seffer of Nebraska, Raven and Abigail Renschler of California, Dina, Gina, Nino, Chiara and Kari Ann Renschler of Germany and Wilhemina, Malik and Draven Blevins of Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; two brothers: Reinhold and Richard; one sister, Ella; and two grandsons: Perry and David Bell.
A memorial service will be held at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Vermillion on September 1. He will be laid to rest next to his wife in the Meckling Cemetery. Iverson-Siecke Funeral Home, Vermillion, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
Nylis Gene Renschler, 71, of Vermillion, SD passed away Wednesday, June 3 at the VA Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD.
Nylis was born July 10, 1943 in Avon, SD to Alvin and Ruth (Deurmier) Renschler. He attended school in Wakonda, SD graduating from Meckling high school in 1961. He worked most of his career as a carpenter.
He is survived by his sons; Nylis “Gene” (Marita) Renschler II of Brandon, SD and David (Shay) Renschler of Vacaville, CA and a daughter Kari (Quentin) Blevins of Sioux City, IA. He is also survived by his sisters; Diann (Neil) Phillis of Tehama, CA and Clarice Renschler of LosMolinas, CA, 15 Grandchildren: Feyd, Tehya, Tristan, Wilhelmina, Malik and Draven Blevins, Michelle (Clarence) Hill, Natasha (Nathan) Bonds, Dina, Gina, Chiara and Kari Renschler, Dakota Keffer, Raven and Abigail Renschler and five great grandchildren: Brody Blevins, Alyssa & Jordan Hill and Emma & Noah Bonds.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson Nino Renschler.
Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Thursday, June 11 at the Concordia Lutheran Church in Vermillion with Visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in the Meckling Cemetery in Meckling, SD.
A memorial service for Robert J. Rokusek, 64, of Scotland will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28 at St. George Catholic Church in Scotland with Fr. Mathew Vazhappilly and Pastor Leon Schulz officiating. Organist will be Georgianne Pravecek, with vocal music by the St. George Choir and the congregation. Inurnment will follow in St. George Catholic Cemetery in Scotland. Honorary urnbearers will be Bob’s seven grandchildren. There will be visitation on Thursday from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. with the family present from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Goglin Funeral Home in Scotland.
Bob was born on Saturday, November 11, 1944 to Alvin and Helen (Brezina) Rokusek in Parkston, South Dakota. He grew up on the family farm north of Scotland and graduated from Scotland High School in 1962. Following high school, Bob worked as a welder and with Vern Liebl Well Drilling before engaging in farming. Bob married his wife of 44 years, Darlene Sayler, on June 5, 1965. They farmed together for 24 years before purchasing a home in Scotland in 1989. At that time, they moved off the family farm but he remained active on the farm for the rest of his life. Next year, 2010, will be the anniversary of the farm being in the Rokusek family for 100 years. Bob was a very passionate, determined and successful man, always eager to help family, friends and neighbors. He had a tremendous love for nature – raising pigs and farm crops, growing beautiful flowers, gardens and trees, raising and taking care of birds (purple martins), chickens, and ducks. He was very mechanical and could fix anything he came across. Bob had a talent for woodworking; he created beautiful furniture keepsakes amongst other meticulous woodworking projects. Bob enjoyed country music, playing pinochle and solitaire, fishing, traveling, class reunions and visiting with family, extended family, grandchildren and friends. He also enjoyed foods of his Czech heritage: duck, dumplings, and kolaces. At the time of Bob’s death, he was restoring a 1938 “B” John Deere tractor similar to the one he received from his grandfather Joseph Rokusek at the age of 9. Bob and Darlene had just returned from a wonderful weeklong vacation to the Black Hills when Bob very suddenly became seriously ill; he passed away on Monday, August 24, 2009 at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls at the age of 64 years, 9 months and 13 days. Bob was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather; he will be missed very much.
Grateful for having him in our lives are his wife, Darlene; his son, Joe (Lisa) of Olivet; daughter Linda (and special friend, Kim Kotas) of Sioux Falls; seven grandchildren: Kristin, Karla, Kendra and Kayla Rokusek of Olivet, Danika and Riley Memmenga of Sioux Falls, and Victoria Ockinga of Gothenburge, Nebraska; two sisters: Betty (Mike) Vetch of Surprise, Arizona and Joan (Ken) Kaiser of Omaha, Nebraska; four nieces and nephews: Toni Vetch and Jeremy Vetch of Surprise, Arizona, Jeff (Lisa) Kaiser of Omaha, Nebraska, and Todd (Candice) Kaiser of Thornton, Colorado; three aunts: Jean (Don) Norby of Sioux City, Iowa, Hattie Becvar of Tyndall and Ella Schmidt of Tripp; and uncle Edward Brezina of Tripp and Geraldine Brezina of Tripp. He is also survived by his in-laws, Richard (Ida) Sayler of Menno; brother-in-law Don (Barb) Sayler of Menno; sister-in-law Marlys (Dan) Haase of Scotland; and numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his father, Alvin Rokusek and his mother, Helen (Brezina) Rokusek.
Alvin A. Rokusek, 83, Scotland, died Frday (Jan. 9, 2004) at the Good Samaritan Center, Scotland.
Funeral services are at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at St. George Catholic Church, Scotland, with the Rev. David Stevens officiating. Burial is in St. George Catholic Cemetery, Scotland. Pallbearers are Joe Rokusek, Linda Ockinga, Toni Vetch-Biddle, Jeffrey Kaiser, Ray Rokusek and Tony Rokusek Visitation is from 3-9 p.m. today (Monday) at Goglin-Kelley Funeral Chapel, Scotland, and resumes two hours prior to the service Tuesday at the church.
Alvin was born Feb. 16, 1920, in Scotland to Joseph and Rose (Jesek) Rokusek. He married Helen Brezina in October 1942. He farmed in the Scotland area most of his life and also did carpentry work in the area.
Alvin enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards.
Survivors include three children: Robert (Darlene) Rokusek, Scotland; Betty (Mike) Vetch, Surprise, Ariz.; and JoAnn (Ken) Kaiser, Omaha, Neb.; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters: Irene Leach and Jean Norby, both of Sioux City, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and a sister.
Helen Mary Rokusek, age 88 of Yankton passed away on Friday, May 16, 2008 at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton, SD.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Yankton, SD with Rev. Mark Lichter officiating. Burial will be approximately at 4:00 p.m. at the St. George Catholic Cemetery in Scotland, SD. Visitations will be 4-8 p.m. Monday, May 19, 2008 at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home and Crematory, Yankton with the family present from 7-8 p.m. Pallbearers will be Joe Rokusek, Linda Rokusek, Kristin Rokusek, Jeff Kaiser, Todd Kaiser, and Toni Vetch.
Helen Mary was born September 10, 1919 to Frank and Matilda (Sedlacek) Brezina on the family farm near Tripp, SD. She was raised in the Tripp area and attended country school. On October 6, 1941, she was united in marriage to Alvin Rokusek in Scotland, SD. They farmed north of Scotland until 1969. In 1968, she went to work at the Human Services Center in Yankton as an aide, where she was employed for 15 1/2 years. For the next 8 years, she worked at Avera Sister James Nursing Home and then at Fitzgerald Potato Chip Factory for 4 years.
She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Foresters, and Catholic Daughters.
Her memory will always be cherished by her children: Robert “Bob” (Darlene) Rokusek of Scotland, SD, Betty (Mike) Vetch of Surprise, AZ, and JoAnn (Ken) Kaiser of Omaha, NE; two sisters: Hattie Becvar of Tyndall, SD and Ella Schmidt of Tripp, SD; a brother, Edward Brezina of Tripp, SD; 6 Grandchildren, 12 Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Emil, and 2 brothers-in-law, Pete Becvar and Albert Schmidt.
AVON — Funeral services for Miss Emma Radack, 86. were Nov. 20 at the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Henry Lang officiating. Burial was in the Danzig Baptist Church with the Crosby Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
Miss Radack was born Dec. 12, 1885 in Bon Homme County to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Radack and died Nov. 16, 1972 at a Yankton hospital. Survivors include four sisters, Mrs. Alvina Oorlog and Mrs. Robert Mattis, Avon; Mrs. Jacob Berndt, Beaver Dam, Wis.; and Mrs. Frank Pendle, Richester, Minn. She was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.
Karen Lenore DeRoos Richardson was born on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1942 at Yankton. She was the daughter of Frank and Dorothy (Wynia) DeRoos. She received her elementary education in the rural schools of Springfield and her high school education in Columbia where her father was a teacher.
She was married to Howard Richardson of Columbia on Nov 12, 1960 and to this union was born one son, Lance.
Mrs. Richardson had been employed as a nurse's aid in St Luke's Hospital in Aberdeen. Death came as the result of injuries received in an automobile accident near Thunder Hawk on Sept. 9.
Funeral services were held in the Baptist church in Aberdeen on Friday, Sept. 13 at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Harold Salem officiating. The remains were brought to Springfield where services were held in the Emmanuel Reformed Church at 4 p.m.
Helen Ryken, age 82, of Huron, South Dakota died Friday, March 20, 2015, at the Violet Tschetter Memorial Home. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Helen Mae Vellek was born on November 15, 1932, to Adolph and Christina (Podzimek) Vellek in Tyndall, South Dakota. She attended Buechler country grade school and received her GED in Storm Lake, Iowa. Helen went on to college at Mount Marty in Yankton, South Dakota. She later earned a business degree at N.B.T. in Sioux City, Iowa. Helen worked secretarial jobs in South Dakota, Iowa and Idaho. She later completed nursing school and worked for both the Iowa State Mental Hospital and the Idaho State Mental Hospital. She then worked as an escrow officer for Title Insurance and Trust Co. in Oakland, California, from 1957 until she retired in 1993.
She was married to Juanie Romaine Ryken in 1956 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The couple had one daughter, Valerie Ryken. The couple later divorced. After retiring, Helen moved to western Colorado where she lived with her daughter, Valerie for a brief time before returning home to South Dakota.
Helen enjoyed playing bingo and was considered the “Bingo Queen” by her family and friends. She especially enjoyed spending time with her brother, nieces and nephews and their families. She will be greatly missed.
Helen is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Robert Vellek, Raymond Vellek and Ernest Vellek; two sisters, Louise Stauffer and Alice Gastauer; one nephew and two nieces.
She is survived by her daughter, Valerie; her granddaughter, Christina Glassier; her grandson, Maxwell Montgomery; and her great grandson, Taylor Close, all of western Colorado.
Funeral services for Ella Roth, 92, of Tripp, South Dakota will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Tripp. Burial will follow in the Gracehill Cemetery, Tripp. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 20 at the Goglin Funeral Home in Tripp from 5:00 p.m. until a 7:00 p.m. prayer service there.
Ella passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at Walker Gail-Avera Bormann Manor in Parkston. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Goglin Funeral Home of Tripp.
Ella Roth was born on Thursday, March 9, 1922 to Emanuel and Amelia (Buchholz) Wormsbecher on the family farm near Avon, South Dakota. On June 7, 1942, Ella was united in marriage to Walter Roth at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Tripp. Together they made their home nine miles southwest of Tripp where Walter would farm his entire life. Ella was baptized on May 16, 1948 at Emmaus Lutheran Church, where they would be lifelong members.
Ella was a hard-worker, who took great pride in fulfilling her duties as a farmwife, housewife, and mother. She was neat and tidy, a perfectionist in her household work that was seen in her quilting, patching, and bright whites. She loved quilting, embroidery, and crocheting and also enjoyed bingo. Ella passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at Walker Gail-Avera Bormann Manor in Parkston having attained the age of 92 years, 11 months, and 3 days.
She is survived and remembered by her three children: Marcine (Allen) Schoenfish of Menno, LeRoy (Judy) Roth of Tripp, and Myron (Diane) Roth of Tea; seven grandchildren: Ann (Justin) Verba, Scott (Terah) Schoenfish, Sherri Schoenfish, Steven Schoenfish, Ryan (Amanda) Roth, Fawn (Chris) Vogt, and Cody (Angie) Roth; fourteen great-grandchildren; and brother Harvey Wormsbecher of Tripp.
She was preceded in death by her husband Walter Roth in 2013, her parents, two brothers: Clarence and Elmer, and six sisters: Esther, Lillian, Hulda, Lorraine, Ruth, and Julia.
Any undesignated gifts of memorial funds will be directed to the American Diabetes Association.
Funeral services for Richard Roth, 78, of Avon are at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, January 29, 2015 at Zion Lutheran Church in Avon. Burial is in the church cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be at the church Wednesday from 5-7 p.m., followed by a Prayer Service at 7 p.m. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon is in charge of arrangements.
Richard Raymond Roth was born April 20, 1936 in rural Avon, SD the son of Frederick and Katie (Winckler) Roth. He died Monday, January 26, 2015 at the Pioneer Memorial Hospital in Viborg. Richard attained the age of 78 years, nine months and six days.
Richard attended rural school north of Avon. He married Carol Den Ouden on July 12, 1963 at the Emmanuel Reformed Church in Springfield. Together they farmed and later they worked at CR Industries in Springfield. After retiring from CR, Richard also sprayed weeds for Bon Homme County, worked for D&L Oil in Avon, sharpened disc blades and worked for various farmers.
Richard was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church where he served as custodian and cemetery supervisor. He was also a member of Farm Bureau.
Richard will be remembered for his love of traveling, for being an active and very social man and enjoyed going to senior dances with his friends.
Thankful for having shared his life are his six children: Doug and wife Janette Roth of Lincoln, NE, Deb and husband Mike Scheetz of Springfield, Dwight and wife Jennifer Roth of Moville, IA, Dan and wife Joy Roth of Gordon, NE, Denise and husband Adam Rahn of Fairmont, MN and Curtis and wife Emily Roth of Yankton; 17 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; sister Marcella and husband Leo Petrik of Mitchell; sister-in-law Helen Roth of Springfield; special friend Pauline Finck of Tripp; and many relatives and friends.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Roth on February 6, 2009; parents; infant son, Duane; grandson, Marvin Scheetz; granddaughter, Stephanie Scheetz; and eight brothers and sisters: Viola (Leon) Woehl, Ella (Paul) Meisenholder, Hulda (Ervin) Streyle, Edwin (Sylvia) Roth, Gladys (Elwood) Brunken, Arwin Roth, Emma Roth and Martha Roth.
Joseph & Margie Rehurek
Funeral service for Joseph Rehurek Jr., 90, of Tyndall will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 9 at United Methodist Church in Tyndall with Duane Coates officiating. Interment will be in Czech National Cemetery, Tyndall. Graveside Military Rites are by Simek-Ptak V.F.W. Post #6895, Pike-Wagner American Legion Post #2, and the South Dakota Army National Guard Military Funeral Honor Guard. Casketbearers are Henry Musil, Dave Jerke, Ron Hamberger, Paul Jaeger, Stan Jaeger, and Robert Rothschadl.
Joseph Rehurek Jr. was born on Friday, February 21, 1921 near Tyndall, South Dakota to Joseph and Marie (Mazoureh) Rehurek Sr. On Monday, March 4, 1946, Joseph and Margie Hamburger were united in marriage at United Methodist Church in Tyndall, SD. Joseph proudly served in the US Marine Corps in the South Pacific and China during World War II. After which he became a member of Simek-Ptak V.F.W. Post #6895. Through the years, he was also a Farmer’s Bell Telephone Company lineman and board member, School District #19 board member, Jackson Township Election board member, and the treasurer of the Czech National Cemetery board. Joseph was a proud American who loved his country and family dearly. Joseph passed away on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at St. Michael’s Hospital in Tyndall, SD, having attained the age of 90 years, 8 months, and 11 days.
Joseph is survived by his sons, Larry Rehurek of Kaylor, South Dakota, and Dave (Sheryl) Rehurek of Yankton, SD; grandchildren, Amanda (Doug Simek) Rehurek, Andrew Rehurek, Zachary Rehurek, Ryan Brodersen, and Dane Brodersen; and great-grandchildren, Callie and Tate Brodersen.
Preceding him in death was his wife, Margie; his parents, Joseph and Marie Rehurek Sr.; his daughter, Colleen Rehurek; his brothers, Edward Rehurek and Frank Rehurek; his sisters, Leona Musil and Marie Kriz; and two sisters and one brother in infancy.
Leroy Frank Rehurek was born on Monday, November 7, 1932 to Joseph R. and Anna (Dvoracek) Rehurek. He graduated from Tyndall High School in 1950. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in January of 1953 and served actively until December of 1956, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. His duties in the Air Force included being an instructor in Basic Electronics and Radar Maintenance courses at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi. After serving four years in the inactive reserve, he obtained his Honorable Discharge in January of 1961.
He began studies at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado in January of 1957 and graduated in June of 1961 with a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Business Administration – General Business. During his career, he worked for such companies as Union Bank, Collins Radio Company, and Control Data Corporation. In 1975, he began employment with the City of Los Angeles, California as an accountant and retired in July of 1993 as a Senior Accountant at the age of 60. A notable achievement during his working years was the design, testing and implementation of a new, integrated accounting system (FMIS), Financial Management Information System for the City of Los Angeles in 1986.
Leroy never married, but lived a very fulfilling life. He was an avid follower of popular music from the 1950’s through the 1990’s. He enjoyed the arts and attended many concerts, plays and theatrical performances. He took an active interest in the world around him and had a keen knowledge of current events. He became a resident of California in June of 1961, and enjoyed the wonderful climate and scenic coastline, especially that of Santa Monica, where he lived for many years. Leroy passed away on Wednesday, March 9, 2011 at Cypress Court Assisted Living in Escondido, California, having attained the age of 78 years, 4 months, 2 days.
He is survived by four sisters: Irene Kreber of Springfield, Marcella Kortan of Tyndall, Ruth Vellek of Tyndall and Dorothy Sattler of Mitchell; a brother, Lawrence (Joyce) Rehurek of Sparks, Nevada; a sister-in-law, Lorraine Rehurek, of Tyndall; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Anna Rehurek; his sister, Viola Kostlan; three brothers: Alvin Rehurek, Calvin Rehurek and Raymond Rehurek; five brothers-in-law Wallace Kreber, Edward Kostlan, Dorance Kortan, Charles Vellek, and Wesley Sattler; and a sister-in-law Dorothy (Rehurek) Sanders.
Joseph & Margie Rehurek
Margie D. Rehurek was born on September 2, 1922 near Scotland, South Dakota to William and Pauline (Jacober) Hamberger. On March 4, 1946, she was united in marriage to her best friend and loving lifetime companion, Joseph Rehurek, Jr. They raised their family on their farm northeast of Tyndall, where Margie worked hard tending to the chickens and milking the cows. No matter how hard she worked, though, she always had renewed energy if there was an opportunity to dress up and go dancing. A woman of quiet strength and ageless beauty, she will be remembered for her warm smile and her giving nature. She was truly gifted at comforting and easing the pain of others, especially her young daughter who suffered a terminal illness. She always acknowledged the pain, played it down, and found some good to replace the pain. Margie loved many of the simple pleasures in her life - tending to the huge array of flowers and plants in her garden, cooking and baking her special dishes, working crossword puzzles in between naps in her favorite chair, visiting with friends and especially sharing a dish of ice cream with Joe before bed. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Tyndall, the United Methodist Women, and the Tyndall Good Samaritan Guild, where she fixed hair for the “old gals” for over 21 years. Margie died on Saturday, September 13, 2008 at St. Michael’s Hospital in Tyndall at the age of 86 years and 11 days.
Margie’s memory will be cherished by her husband, Joe Rehurek, Jr. of Tyndall; two sons: Larry Rehurek of Kaylor, South Dakota and Dave (Sheryl) Rehurek of Yankton, South Dakota; three grandchildren: Amanda "Tootsie" Rehurek, Andrew Rehurek and Zachary Rehurek; and a brother, Gary Hamberger of Kaylor, South Dakota.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Colleen Rehurek, in 1987, her parents, William and Pauline Hamberger, and two brothers, Raymond Hamberger and Leo Hamberger.
Evelyn C. Rueb, 88 of Wagner - Funeral services are 1:30 pm Monday, July 6, 2009 at the Wagner Community Church in Wagner, SD. Visitation will be from 11 am to 5 pm Sunday at the Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home in Wagner, followed by a 7 pm prayer service at the church. Burial will be in the ZCBJ Cemetery, rural Wagner.
Evelyn Clara Rueb, daughter of Ralph and Katie (Fisher) Voigt, was born December 16, 1920 on a farm near Avon, SD. She died Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at the Good Samaritan Society in Wagner. Evelyn attained the age of 88 years, six months and 11 days.
Evelyn attended James Country School in Bon Homme County and graduated from Tyndall High School. She received her BS in Education fro Southern State Teachers College in Springfield and her Master’s Degree in Administration from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion. Evelyn taught 15 years in rural schools of South Dakota and Iowa, nine years as the third grade teacher in Wagner, 18 years as the first Elementary Principal in Wagner and two years teaching gifted students.
Evelyn married Rayburn R. Rueb on July 17, 1949 at the Tyndall Baptist Church in Tyndall. Two children were blessed to their union. Rayburn died August 12, 1985.
Evelyn was a former member of the Tyndall Baptist Church, the Wagner Community Church, the CMA Women’s Group, Christian Women’s Club, BPW Club, SDEA and NEA.
Evelyn enjoyed reading - especially in fields of religion, history and lives of great people. She also enjoyed playing piano and organ and served as pianist in the CMA Church in Wagner for 35 years.
Thankful for having shared her life are her children: Richard R. Rueb of Oregon City, OR and Rochelle (Peter) Schweizer and their children, Jack and Hannah, of Tallahassee, FL; two brothers:Harlen A. (Marian) Voigt of Avon and Edwin F. (Vernice) Voigt of Columbus, NE; two sisters: Irene B. (Andrew) Eben of Avon and Ruth E. Krull of Ashton, IA; sister-in-law, Naomi Rueb of Grand Island, NE; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother-in-law, Jake Krull; and one nephew.
Harvey Donald Rokusek was born on Monday, December 10, 1923 to Albert T. and Catherine (Bouska) Rokusek on the family farm near Tripp, South Dakota. He was raised on the farm and attended Sharon District #18 Country School through the 8th grade. Harvey was united in marriage to Shirley Dangel on June 1, 1948 at St. George Catholic Church in Scotland. They made their home on the farm Northwest of Scotland. Harvey farmed nearly all of his life and even after retirement he enjoyed checking on the crops and following their progress. He enjoyed hunting and will be remembered for the adventures he had with his children hunting jackrabbits while waiting for Santa on Christmas Eve. Harvey was a long-standing and devoted member of St. George Catholic Church and served on the committee to fund the building of the new church. The light of his life and his pride and joy were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Harvey died on Wednesday, August 27, 2008 on his farm near Scotland at the age of 84 years, 8 months and 17 days.
Harvey's memory will be cherished by his wife of 60 years, Shirley, of rural Scotland; four children: Richard Rokusek of Norfolk, Nebraska, Dr. James (Jane) Rokusek of Watertown, South Dakota, Paul (Barb) Rokusek of rural Tripp, South Dakota, and Susan (Kevin) Beehler of Delmont, South Dakota; eight grandchildren: Anna (Tim) Olson of Alexandria, Minnesota, Dan Rokusek of Rapid City, South Dakota, Katie Rokusek of Alexandria, Minnesota, Allison Rokusek of Watertown, South Dakota, Andy (Katie) Rokusek of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mark Rokusek of Brooklyn, New York, and Scott Beehler and Amanda Beehler, both of Delmont, South Dakota; three great-grandchildren: Ayla and Macy Rokusek and Emily Olson; and one sister-in-law, Margaret Rokusek of Parkston, South Dakota.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert T. and Catherine, brothers Albert R. and Arnold, and sisters Dorothy, Valestine and Alice.
The funeral service for Duane C. Rucktaeschel, 74 of Avon will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 7, 2012 at the First Presbyterian Church in Avon, with burial in the Trinity Presbyterian Cemetery, rural Avon. Visitation will be at the church Monday from noon until the 7:30 p.m. prayer service. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Home of Avon is in charge of arrangements.
Duane C. Rucktaeschel, son of Clarence and Evelyn (Pickett) Rucktaeschel, was born April 17, 1938 at Wabasso, MN. He died unexpectedly Friday, August 3, 2012 at the Wagner Community Memorial Hospital in Wagner. Duane attained the age of 74 years, three months and 18 days.
Duane attended grade school through the eighth grade at Wabasso Public School and then worked for area farmers. He married Evelyn Nelson on January 12, 1957 at Milroy, MN. Three children were born to this union: Rocky, Roxan and Richie.
Duane worked many different jobs in Minnesota, South Dakota and Nebraska. From 2010 to the present, he was employed at the Wagner Community School.
Duane married Mary Ann Seiner on August 11, 1989 at Tyndall. Two daughters were born to this union: Kala and Kari. He was looking so forward to walking his daughter Kala down the aisle later this month.
Duane was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, North American Hunting Club and the NRA. He will be remembered for his enjoyment of hunting, fishing, gardening vegetables and his over-use of duct tape. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Every morning he enjoyed having coffee and cookies with his dogs, Chloe and Ella.
Thankful for having shared his life are his wife Mary Ann of Avon; five children: Kala and fiancee’ Joe Cuka and Kari of Avon; Rocky and wife Melissa of Tyndall; Roxan Christensen and Wes; and Richie, all of Webster; eight grandchildren: Ryan Rucktaeschel, Cristy Brandt, Cory Kirkvold, Raja Brandt, Josh Rucktaeschel, Jenny Spooner, Michael Christensen and Connor Rucktaeschel; 11 great grandchildren; a brother Kenneth of Morris, MN; sister Geraldine Kruse and husband Delbert of Stillwater, MN; several nieces and nephews; his first wife Evelyn Dean and husband Harrison of Webster;and many friends.
Duane was preceded in death by his parents; brother Gary; sister Bernadine Stanek, parents-in-law; and a nephew.
Services for Opal L. Ratzlaff, 93, of Avon, will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 25, 2008, at the Friedensberg Bible Church, 30992 406th Ave, rural Avon. Burial is in the church cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Crosby-Jaeger Funeral Chapel in Avon is in charge of arrangements.
Opal L. (Boese) Ratzlaff was born September 6, 1915, to Isaac and Nettie (Schultz) Boese in rural Springfield, SD. She died Monday, September 22, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Society in Tyndall, SD.
Opal attended the Mennonite District 41 rural school and graduated from Springfield High School in 1934 as valedictorian of her class.
Upon confession of her faith in Jesus Christ as her personal Savior she was baptized and was a lifetime member of the Friedensberg Mennonite Church. She was active as a Sunday School teacher, pianist, organist and president and treasurer of Women in Missions as well as other offices in the church. She taught Vacation Bible School during many summers at Kingsburg church, Mennonite church and in Charles Mix County. She also participated in the Easter Cantata for several years.
Opal’s career of teaching spanned 39 1/2 years. She obtained her degree and post-graduate courses at Springfield Southern State Teachers College, Northern State Teachers College at Aberdeen and the University of Minnesota. She taught in rural schools of Bon Homme and Charles Mix Counties, at Wessington Springs, where she also served as a teaching principal and Mitchell, where she also served as president of the Mitchell Teacher’s Association for several years. Opal also taught in Minneapolis, MN, in various schools, eight years of which were in a laboratory school of demonstration teaching for the Education Department of the University of Minnesota. The last five years she was a special education teacher.
Opal taught pilot courses in Air Age Education for nine summers on the campus of Black Hills Teachers College in Spearfish, SD. She assisted writing and illustrating books on Conservation and Air Age for enrichment courses.
After retiring from an active teaching career, she moved back to her home community. She married Albert Ratzlaff in 1977. They lived at ARC Farms for six years before moving into Avon.
Opal enjoyed traveling, oil painting, sewing and music, often singing in church services.
Thankful for having shared her life are her three step children: Ronald and wife Judy Ratzlaff, Calvin and wife Donna Ratzlaff, all of Avon; Sharon and husband Eugene Jespersen, of Marion; eight step grandchildren; 10 step great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Opal was preceded in death by her husband, Albert; parents; two sisters: Alma Metcalf and Elona Boese; brother, Arden Boese; two brothers-in-law, Wayne Metcalf and Bob Boese; nephew, James Boese; step grandson, Eric Jespersen; step granddaughter, Betty Jespersen; and step great-grandson, Ryan Wayne Brattmiller.