image of main gate


Betty (Birdsall) Hertha; 1930 - 2015
Vince Ferdig; 19?? - 2015
Pete Parmenter; 1928 - 2015
Marjorie (Hardman) Tubbs; 1930 - 2015
Richard J. Morgan; 1929 - 2015
Victor P. Garvis; 1923 - 2015
James Boltz; 1946 - 2015
Sylvia (Bens) Krause; 1932 - 2015
Reinhold L. Krein; 1918 - 2015
Dorothy Brookens; 1927 - 2015
Arthur L. "Butch" Nelson; 1946 - 2015
William "Bill" Stokes; 1945 - 2015
Rodney Lloyd Torkelson; 1936 - 2015
James Kenneth Mudge; 1929 - 2015
Ronald Ralph Wilhelm; 1931 - 2015
Charles L. Smith; 1928 - 2015
Joseph M. Schmaltz; 1938 - 2015
Phyllis E.(Nygaard) Berens; 1934 - 2015
LaVerne "Mac" McCleerey; 1940 - 2015
Dave Fix; 1945 - 2015
Donald W. Vassos; 1940 - 2015
Florence Krantz; 1916 - 2015
Sylvia (Kautz) Heldman; 1937 - 2015
Roger Owen Strain; 1939 - 2015
David H. Martinez; 1942 - 2015
Jay A Firnekas; 1924 - 2015
James Louis Ritter; 1929 - 2015

1/17/2015

Betty (Birdsall) Hertha

July 30, 1930 - January 17, 2015

Betty Hertha, 84, of Huntsville, passed away Saturday. She was a retired Civil Servant, working as an Administrative Assistant initially at the Black Hills Ordinance Depot in Igloo, SD, and after her children were grown, she resumed working in a similar capacity at Redstone Arsenal. She also served as the Church Secretary at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Huntsville. She was also involved with the local Toastmistress chapter for a period of time.

When she moved to Huntsville with her husband and children in 1956, she joined St. Mark's Lutheran Church, a congregation she loved and served for the remainder of her life. She served in many ways, including service on the Church Council, teaching confirmation class, and writing biographies of new members for the church newsletter, a job she particularly enjoyed as it enabled her to meet and get to know the new members that joined the church.

Survivors include children, Roberta Ann Elser (Robert), Dianne Marie Smith (Robert), David William Hertha (Donna), Douglas John Hertha (Nancy), and Jennie Lynn Hertha; grandchildren, Steve, Brad, Laura (Mitch), Jamie and Robert; great-grandchild, Autumn; brothers, Tom Birdsall and Joe Birdsall; step-sisters, Gloria Grummons and Jane Maynard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Mark's Lutheran Church with the Rev. H. Warren Casiday officiating. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery at 2 p.m. Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, the Wounded Warrior Project or Operation Smile.


1/17/2015

Betty (Birdsall) Hertha

July 30, 1930 - January 17, 2015

Betty Hertha, 84, of Huntsville, passed away Saturday. She was a retired Civil Servant, working as an Administrative Assistant initially at the Black Hills Ordinance Depot in Igloo, SD, and after her children were grown, she resumed working in a similar capacity at Redstone Arsenal. She also served as the Church Secretary at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Huntsville. She was also involved with the local Toastmistress chapter for a period of time.

When she moved to Huntsville with her husband and children in 1956, she joined St. Mark's Lutheran Church, a congregation she loved and served for the remainder of her life. She served in many ways, including service on the Church Council, teaching confirmation class, and writing biographies of new members for the church newsletter, a job she particularly enjoyed as it enabled her to meet and get to know the new members that joined the church.

Survivors include children, Roberta Ann Elser (Robert), Dianne Marie Smith (Robert), David William Hertha (Donna), Douglas John Hertha (Nancy), and Jennie Lynn Hertha; grandchildren, Steve, Brad, Laura (Mitch), Jamie and Robert; great-grandchild, Autumn; brothers, Tom Birdsall and Joe Birdsall; step-sisters, Gloria Grummons and Jane Maynard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Mark's Lutheran Church with the Rev. H. Warren Casiday officiating. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery at 2 p.m. Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, the Wounded Warrior Project or Operation Smile.


Go to top of page

1/25/2015

Vince Ferdig

19?? - January 25, 2015

No obit at this time. It is believed Vince died at Edgewater, Fl.


Go to top of page

1/28/2015

Peter M. Parmenter

December 19, 1928 - January 28, 2015

Peter M. Parmenter, of Baileyton, AL, passed away on January 28, 2015, after a brief end-stage battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). PSP is a rare disease similar to Parkinson's but wih no cure, or any medication that will slow its progress or even aleviate symptons.

Pete was born in Hickson, North Dakota. He and his dad moved to Provo, South Dakota, in the Black Hills, where his dad found work building the Black Hills Ordnance Depot. The rest of the family followed when housing became available. Pete graduated high school there, married the love of his life Mary Birdsall the next year, and began his civil service career there.

A few years after he started working at the Depot himself, Pete became an ammunition inspector. That job would require him to move frequently. After finishing his training, Pete and Mary took their children, Deanne and Michael, and set off on their lifelong adventure! Their first move was to Huntsville, AL, where he was stationed at Redstone Arsenal. He was soon sent to Letterkenny Army Depot, Chambersburg, PA; followed by Seneca Army Depot, Geneva, NY; Korea; Savanna Army Depot, Savanna, IL; Fishbach, West Germany; Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey; Seneca and Savanna a second time; Anniston Army Depot, Anniston, AL; Miesau, West Germany; and Anniston a second time. He retired in Anniston, after 38 years of service. As they moved around the country in his early career, they also increased the size of their family; Patrica; Roger; and Karen. Pete and Mary moved to Baileyton after Pete retired.

As they moved, they made many life-long friends all over the world, many of whom still keep in touch. Pete and Mary began camping around the country, finally deciding that Sunshine RV Park/Resort, in Harlingen, Texas, would be their winter home away from home. They wintered there and returned to Baileyton each spring.

Pete was an avid golfer, a bowler (once bowling a 696 series), a runner (he especially enjoyed running 10 and 20 kilometer volksmarches in Germany) and woodworker. He and Mary loved to travel, from coast to coast in the U.S., as well as all over Europe. They were amazing dancers; other couples often stopped dancing to watch them. Pete was a serious cribbage player, playing every morning when in Texas - except golf day (or days, if the weather cooperated!).

Pete was preceded in death by his beloved wife "Miss Mary," his mother Myrtle Iverson Parmenter, his father Miles Parmenter, sisters Mary Jane Grosz, Phyllis Forgey and Joyce Shultz, and brothers Marlyn and Kenny Parmenter.

He is survived by five children; Deanne Renteria; Michael (Mary Lou) Parmenter; Patricia (Charles) Gilbert; Roger (Barbara) Parmenter; Karen (James) Fletcher; one sister, Dorothy (Floyd) Smith; and one brother, Jim Parmenter. Pete was "Grandpa" or "Poppy" to 16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Pete requested there be no formal service. There will be a graveside committal service, on February 7, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at Cullman Memory Gardens, 1516 Bolte Road SE, Cullman, AL 35055. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be made to "CurePSP" 30 E. Padonia Road, Suite 201, Timonium, MD 21093 (web site: http://www.psp.org/donate/ways-to-give.html).


Go to top of page

1/30/2015

Marjorie (Hardman) Tubbs

April 15, 1930 - January 30, 2015

Marjorie Delores Tubbs, age 84, of Edgemont, SD, passed away January 30, 2015, at the Seven Sisters Living Center in Hot Springs, SD.

Marjorie was born April 15, 1930, at the Evans Hotel Annex in Hot Springs, SD, to Charles and Mildred (Hixson) Hardman. Marjorie spent her younger years in Buffalo Gap, SD, where she attended grade school, later moved to Igloo, SD, where she graduated from High School in 1948. Marjorie met and married Edward Tubbs on Oct 17, 1948. To this union was born Edward Tubbs, Jr., Ben Tubbs and Melanie (Tubbs) Ditsch.

She was active in the Rebekah and Odd Fellows Lodges, Methodist and UCC Churches in South Dakota and Wyoming. Marjorie volunteered at the VA Center in Hot Springs and she was also involved in many groups such as bowling, canasta, bridge, 4-H and Cub Scouts.

Marjorie is survived by her two sons, Edward Tubbs of Edgemont; Ben (Patty) Tubbs of Hot Springs; daughter, Melanie (Jim) Ditsch of Topeka, KS; two brothers, Donald Hardman of Carson, WA; Leland (Sue) Hardman of New Brighton, MN; two sisters, Shirley (Chuck) Johnson of Rapid City, SD; Marion Hills of Marina, CA; three grandchildren; Amber Tubbs, Paul Ditsch and Matt Ditsch; step grandchildren; Gary (Nikki) Ditsch and one great grandson, Kristopher Tubbs.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 3, 2015, at Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 4, 2015, at Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs with Pastor Paul Smith officiating.

Interment will follow at the Edgemont Cemetery near Edgemont.

A memorial in Marjorie's name has been established to benefit the Edgemont Senior Citizens Center in Edgemont.


Go to top of page

3/29/2015

Richard J. Morgan

May 17, 1929 - March 29, 2015

Richard Jay Morgan, born in the Sand Hills of Nebraska on the 17th day of May in the year 1929 and raised in the beautiful black hills of South Dakota, passed from this life on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2015 at his home in St. Charles, Illinois.

He leaves to celebrate his passing to eternity with his savior, Jesus Christ, his wife of 64 years, Patricia, four children, Michael of St. Charles, Margaret (Gary) Czubak of St. Charles, Mark (Regina) of St. Charles, Mariane (Edward) Oros of Geneva, seven grandchildren, Jeremiah, Michael, Patrick and Timothy Morgan, Christopher Wahl, Lauren Wise and Catherine Oros, twelve great-grandchildren, Jessica, Katelyn, Mariah, Alexia, Emily, Nicholas, Joel and Jonah Morgan, Levi and Laine Wise, Henry and Gemma Wahl.

Welcoming him to heaven are his parents, Arthur and Stella, a sister, Dixie Crandall and two brothers, William and Bruce.

Funeral mass will be 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, April 1st at St. Patrick Church, 400 Cedar Street, St. Charles. Rev. Ryan Browning officiating. Entombment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, Geneva. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5-8:00 P.M. at Yurs Funeral Home, 405 East Main Street, St. Charles. To leave an online condolence for the family, visit the funeral homes obituary page at www.yursfuneralhomes.com. For more information, please call Yurs Funeral Home of St. Charles, 630-584-0060 or like us on Facebook.


Go to top of page

4/11/2015

Victor P. Garvis

Victor P. Garvis, 92, of Moline, the second youngest child of George and Georgina (Richer) Garvis, passed away April 11 at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, IA.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 AM Wednesday, April 15th, at Sacred Heart Church, Moline. Visitation will be 4 - 7 PM Tuesday at Rafferty Funeral Home, 2111 1st St A, Moline, with a Christian Wake service at 3:30 PM. Burial will be at National Cemetery, Rock Island with military honors conducted by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 299. Memorials can be made to Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House.

Victor graduated from Parkston High School, Parkston, SD and served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. After the service Victor attended the University of South Dakota and graduated with a B.S. in Education and a minor in Athletics. He lettered in football two years and was the president of his fraternity, Phi Delta Theta.

After graduation he married his college sweetheart, Dorothy Rayman, and accepted a position as head coach at Provo High School in Igloo, SD. He had many successful football seasons and coached the boys varsity basketball team to the state championship game. After Provo, he accepted a position with the U.S. Government at the Black Hills Army Depot and transferred to the Army Management Engineering college at the Rock Island Arsenal, where he taught top and middle management courses. He received his Masters degree in Education from Western Illinois University. After retiring from the Arsenal he went on to become a Curriculum Advisor at Black Hawk College in Moline.

Victor loved woodworking and created several dozen bowls and handcrafted wood clocks. He proudly holds a U.S. Patent for a multi-purpose woodworking clamp.

Victor also loved to write and self-published over 30 stories of his times growing up in South Dakota during the depression, titled Rambling Writings. Members of Sacred Heart Church enjoyed his Christmas stories, which were included in the Christmas bulletin for many years.

Victor's greatest love in life was being married to his best friend for over 67 years. He also loved his time spent with his family of 4 children, 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy; children, Mike (Pam) Garvis, Moline, John (Elizabeth) Garvis, Chicago and Georgina (David) Svec, St. Joseph, MI; daughter-in-law Sandra Garvis, Iowa City; grandchildren, Tris, Abby, Tim and Gina Garvis, Madeline, Lydia and Isabelle Svec, and Iris and Robert Postma; 4 great-grandchildren; brother, Jim Garvis, Bullhead, AZ, and 2 sisters-in-law, Joyce Kolbeck and Karen Rayman. He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel, and 6 brothers and 4 sisters.


Go to top of page
4/24/2015

James (Jim) Boltz

James "Jim" Boltz, 68, a longtime resident of Moses Lake passed away Friday, April 24, 2015 at Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee.

Jim was born in Igloo, South Dakota on September 1, 1946, son of Bernard and Lillian Boltz. He worked for Union Carbide and as a manager for Payless Drug Store.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Kira Boltz and a daughter and her friend, Holly Boltz and Isabel "Junior"J. Rocha.


Go to top of page
5/7/2015

Sylvia (Bens) Krause

Funeral services for Sylvia Jean Krause, 83 year old Story woman who passed away peacefully at her home, will be held Tuesday May 12th at 2:00 p.m. from the Story Community Church with Pastor John Constantine officiating. Donations in Mrs. Krause's memory may be made to the St. Francis Animal Shelter in care of the Harness Funeral Home at 351 N. Adams in Buffalo. Online condolences may be made at www.harnessfuneralhome.com .

Sylvia is survived by one daughter, Judy Prescott and her husband Jerry of Story, Wyoming; three grandchildren, Amanda Munford and her husband Nick of Story, Wyoming, Debbie Roth and Kristy Roth, both of Lake Havasu City, Arizona; and one great grandchild, Adrian Roth. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son.


Go to top of page
5/12/2015

Arthur L. Nelson

March 25, 1946 - May 12, 2015

Arthur L. "Butch" Nelson, age 69, of Hot Springs, SD, passed away on May 12, 2015, in Hot Springs.

Butch was born on March 25, 1946, at the Sisters Hospital in Hot Springs, to Geddis and Dorothy (Morris) Nelson. Butch was caring, had a heart of gold, husband, and father who loved to draw, woodwork and making people smile. He always made you feel welcomed when he talked to you.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Nelson of Hot Springs; daughters, Heather (James) Webb of Rapid City, SD; Allesia (Larry) Maciejewski of Custer, SD; Shawna Nelson of Hot Springs; brothers, Peter (Judith) Nelson of Claremont, CA; Robert (Aletha) Nelson of Hot Springs; grandchildren, Stephanie DeNoma of Rapid City; Xander Webb of Rapid City, and Aden Nelson of Hot Springs.

Preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Geddis Nelson; brothers, Francis (Bud) Nelson; Carl Nelson; and daughter, Dawn Renae Nelson.

A celebration and sharing of Butch's life will be held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2015, at Chamberlain-McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs.


Go to top of page
6/5/2015

Willian "Bill" Stokes

June 11, 1945 - June 5, 2015

Memorial services for William E. "Bill" Stokes, age 69, of Menno, SD, will be at 10:30 AM on Thursday, June 11, 2015 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Menno, SD with Reverend David Ellis officiating.

Inurnment will be at the Menno Cemetery.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the memorial service at the church.

Bill passed away on Friday, June 5, 2015 at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD. He was born on June 11, 1945 in Gordon, NE to Opal Vivian Bettelyoun Stokes and Hermit Elwood Stokes. He grew up in Igloo and Edgemont, SD, and graduated from Provo High School in 1964. He married Sandra Lee Himmerich on April 24, 1966. Bill was a railroad conductor for Burlington-Northern for 31 years and 3 months. He retired in 2005 and moved to Menno, SD.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother and father. Survivors include wife Sandra Lee; sons James Edward and wife Ungsana of Rapid City, SD, Kurtis Arthur and wife Gail of Westminster, CO, and Johann Charles and wife Rachel of Menno, SD; three grandsons; three granddaughters; and two great-granddaughters.

Aisenbrey-Opsahl-Kostel Memorial Chapel of Menno, SD, is in charge of arrangements for William E. "Bill" Stokes.


Go to top of page
6/11/2015

Reinhold L. Krein

August 19, 1918 - June 11, 2015

Reinhold Ludwig Krein, 96, passed away June 11, 2015.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Juanita Fish; 3 brothers and 3 sisters. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Crystal; daughters, Karen Strong, Shepherd, MI; Janet (Michael) McBee, and Nancy Meyer, both of Pueblo; eight grandchildren; several great grandchildren; sister, Anita Phillips, Broken Bow, NE.

Reinhold was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church.

He was awarded the Exceptional Civil Service Award for actions following an explosion at Black Hills Army Depot in Igloo, S.D. in 1950. He was a retired Assistant Fire Chief from the Pueblo Army Depot and also worked as a handyman for K-mart.

Funeral Service, 10am, Thursday, June 18, 2015 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Interment, Imperial Cemetery. On-line condolences at www.imperialfunerals.com Arrangements by Imperial.


Go to top of page
6/28/2015

Rodney Lloyd Torkelson

May 22, 1936 - June 28, 2015

Rodney Lloyd Torkelson passed away on Sunday June 28, 2015.

Rodney was a resident of Gurley, Alabama.

There are no services planned at this time. Berryhill Funeral Home is assisting the family.


Go to top of page
7/2/2015

James Kenneth Mudge

Dec. 30, 1929 - July 2, 2015

RAPID CITY | James Kenneth Mudge, 85, died Thursday July 2, at Westhills Village Health Care.

He was born December 30, 1929, in Mobridge to William and Effie Mudge. As a young boy his mother called him "dynamite." Jim was the fifth child in a family of six boys and one girl. He lived on the family homestead until 1937, at which time the family moved to Wakpala, a small community near Mobridge. It was during these early years Jim developed his work ethic by performing chores and odd jobs and taking care of his favorite horse, "Brownie."

In 1939, Jim's father was killed in a car accident, leaving Effie alone to raise the family of seven children. These extreme circumstances required the family to bond together for survival. Jim, being only 9 years old, stepped up to the plate, along with his older brothers, to help earn money for the family. Sweeping sawdust from the local pool hall floors, hauling water, taking out garbage, cutting wood and taking care of cattle for the folks around Wakpala were typical jobs for Jim. Remember there was no welfare at that time.

At 12 years old, Jim started working summers on his uncles', Bob and Paul Stewart's, farms located near Selby, SD. When Jim was 13 years old, Bill Beyers, a family friend, mentored Jim and taught him all about repairing cars. Jim became known as the town "grease monkey" and was called on to fix everybody's cars, trucks and tractors. Jim's interest in mechanics and cars started early in life and continued throughout his career.

Jim enjoyed school and played basketball as well as sang and played the guitar.

In the mid 40s, Jim's elder brothers, Billy and Stewart, found employment at the Black Hills Ordinance Depot in Igloo, SD. The family followed them in 1946. Jim attended school in Igloo until he was a sophomore in high school. At that time, it was necessary for Jim to quit school and go to work full time to help support his family.

Jim joined the Army National Guard and in 1950 was activated for the Korean War. He trained in Colorado Springs for four months and was stationed at Fort Richardson near Anchorage, AK, until his discharge in June 1952. While in the service, Jim always sent money back home to his mother to help with family needs.

Upon Jim's return to Igloo, he reignited his relationship with his sweetheart Phyllis Helsel. Official re-dating started on December 7, 1952, and the rest is history. Jim and Phyllis were married on June 21, 1953. His first son, Robert Paul, was born in June 1954. Jim leased a gas station in Sturgis, which he operated until he received an offer to be a Foreman at the uranium mill in Edgemont, SD. His only daughter, Connie Jo, was born in 1956. Jim enjoyed his time at the mill but eventually moved on and began operating a bulk fuel delivery service providing bulk fuels to the ranchers, businesses and friends in the Edgemont area.

In 1959, Jim began working for State Farm Insurance and ultimately moved his family to Huron, SD. His second son, Kevin James, was born in 1961. They lived in Huron until 1964 when Jim accepted a position selling cars for Rapid Chevrolet Company in Rapid City. It was in 1966 when Jim met one of his best friends, Ed Poss, a rancher east of Sturgis. Jim sold a car to Ed and they instantly become lifelong best friends. Jim sold cars through 1967 and started working Civil Service at Ellsworth Air Force Base in 1968. Jim worked at EAFB in the corrosion control department, supply and the fire department areas until his retirement in 1989.

After his retirement from civil service, Jim spent time mentoring the employees of RPM and Associates, a company co-found by Jim in 1982. Jim not only took care of the vehicles at RPM, he was also a father figure and sounding board for many of the young employees. After the retirement of Jim's wife, Phyllis, in 1990, they began their career as snowbirds by spending winters near Jim's older brother, Billy, near Tucson, AZ. Jim and Phyllis sold their house in 2009 and moved into Westhills Village.

Throughout Jim's life, he was known for always lending a helping hand to someone in need. Growing a huge garden and then giving the produce to those in need is just one example of Jim's generosity. Jim loved his family and was so very proud of his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. His family shared many wonderful memories during the holidays, birthdays, vacations and family camping trips. Jim's outgoing personality touched many. He could, and would, talk to anybody and he never met a stranger. Jim and Phyllis recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on June 21, 2015.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and five brothers. He leaves behind a grateful family that includes Phyllis, his wife of 62 years, Rapid City; his children, Robert (Deborah), Rapid City; Connie (Ron Blum), Rapid City; Kevin (Janene), Colorado; sister Salome Wentzloff, Minnesota; 7 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

The family invites you to bring your memories to share during the service and would also invite you to stay after the service and enjoy lunch, which includes Jim's favorite FRIED MACARONI!!!

Jim's family would like to express their sincerest thanks to the staff at Westhills Village for the loving care provided to Jim over the last several months.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established at the Westhills Village Foundation at 255 Texas Street, Rapid City, SD 57701.

Visitation will from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 5, 2015, at Osheim and Schmidt Funeral Home, 2700 Jackson Boulevard, and one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.

Funeral service will be 11:30 a.m. Monday, July 6, 2015, at South Canyon Baptist Church, 3333 West Chicago Street, with Pastor Brent Reeves officiating.

Burial will be held 2:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with full military honors provided by the Rushmore VFW Post 1273 and South Dakota Army National Guard Honor Team.

An online guestbook for Jim may be signed at osheimschmidt.com


Go to top of page
6/20/2015

Ronald Ralph Wilhelm

June 21, 1931 - June 20, 2015

Ronald Ralph Wilhelm went to be with the Lord June 20, 2015. He was born June 21, 1931 at Redfield S.D. Ronald was the first son of Ralph and Carrol Wilhelm.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Estella of 54 years, son James, sister Marilyn and brother Darrell.

Ronald graduated from high school 1949 at Igloo S.D.

Those left to cherish his memory are his daughters Patricia Clemens (Wayne), Sharon Harlow (Brent- deceased), Ronella Good (Kevin) and son David Wilhelm (Marilyn). He was blessed with 12 Grand Children, 21 Great Grandchildren and 4 Great-Great Grandchildren.

Ronald was raised in S.D. He married Estella Mueller August 1950. Ronald served during the Korean War. His service included 20 years in the National Guard in S.D. and CO He worked for the federal government in S.D. as an electrician then moved to Colorado Springs in 1965 and worked at Ft. Carson. He retired June 1985 after 38 years service.

Ronald's hobbies included model railroading and woodworking.

Ronald loved the Lord and was faithful in his daily walk. He attended Circle Drive Baptist Church for many years. In 1971 his son Jimmy was registered to attend the youth camp when he passed away suddenly. So the idea had evolved into the Jimmy Wilhelm Camp fund to assist youth that could not afford the entire camp fee. This fund continues after 44 years.

Ronald and his wife Stella owned and managed the Lost Burro Campground near Cripple Creek, CO for 15 years.

Ronald and Stella were blessed with several Recreational vehicles including a fifth wheel trailer that they enjoyed while visiting family and friends for many years.

Memorial contributions can be sent to Circle Drive Baptist Church for either the Military Family Fund or the Jimmy Wilhelm Camp Fund: Circle Drive Baptist Church, 801 N. Circle Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 cdbc.org


Go to top of page
7/4/2015

Dorothy Brookens

June 25, 1927 - July 4, 2015

Dorothy J. Brookens, age 88, of Denver. Longtime volunteer at the Denver History Museum, died on July 4th. Memorials to the Denver Hospice, 501 S. Cherry St., #700, Denver, CO 80246.


Go to top of page
7/5/2015

Charles L. Smith

Sept. 17, 1928 - July 5, 2015

Charles L. Smith, Sr., 86, of Rapid City passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2015 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Chuck was born September 17, 1928 in Concord, TN to Charles and Dorothy (Dunlop) Smith. He graduated from Farragut High School in (Concord) Knoxville TN. Chuck enlisted in the US Army in 1946 and was honorably discharged in 1952. He married the love of his life, Doris Ritter, September 15, 1951 in Fairbanks, AK, when it was a territory not yet a state. Following his discharge they moved to South Dakota where he worked at the Black Hills Army Depot in Igloo, moving to Rapid City in 1965 to become the Base Civil Engineer at Ellsworth AFB. He was also a member of the South Dakota National Guard, retiring in 1975.

Chuck was a member of South Maple United Methodist Church, singing in the choir; Elks (60 yrs); Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, Shrine Chanters.

Chuck loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, hunting and was a former bowler, car mechanic and gardener.

He is survived by his daughter, Jennie (Tim) Froelich of Rapid City; three sons, Patrick (Christine) Smith of Houston, TX; Bob (Sonya) Smith of Rapid City and Charles (Micheal) Smith of Rapid City; three sisters, Charlotte Ann Smith of Concord, TN, Nancy (Larry) Triplett of Concord, TN; and Marie (Lee) Sutter of Atlanta, GA; his brother, Jack (Billy Sue) Smith of Knoxville, TN; nine grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Doris in 2007 and his sister Emma Jean Smith.

Visitation will be from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at South Maple United Methodist Church in Rapid City with a prayer service at 6:30pm.


Go to top of page
7/14/2015

Joseph M. Schmaltz

May 21, 1938 - July 14, 2015

Resided in Linton, ND

Joseph Schmaltz, 77, Linton, died Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at his home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2015 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Hague, ND. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, July 20, 2015 at Myers Funeral Home where there will be a prayer service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue for one hour before services at the church on Tuesday. Joseph Schmaltz, 77, was born May 21, 1938, the son of Balzer and Magdalena (Kraft) Schmaltz in Hague, ND. He attended Provo High School in Igloo, SD.

Joseph attended college for two years and joined the National Guard. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1955 where he was an Electrical Technical Engineer. He retired from the Air Force in 1975. Following that time he worked at the Kennedy Space Center for 17 years.

He is survived by five children, Vanessa Burritt, Monica Stanek, Sabrena Scherek, Kimberley (Abre) Chase, and Jorene (Rob) Schmaltz-Cooke; 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; two brothers, Raymond (Rose) Schmaltz and Daniel (Ruth) Schmaltz, and three sisters, Lena Knoll, Mary Anne Krumholz and Barbara (Sam) Bigbie; brother-in-law, Joseph P. Smith.

Joseph enjoyed various roles within the American Legion including State Commander. He had a long standing membership with the Forty & Eight. Joe was a lifelong member of AMVETS as well as Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Angeline Smith and Marcella Schmaltz.


Go to top of page
8/19/2015

Phyllis E. (Nygaard) Berens

Oct. 4, 1934 - Aug. 19, 2015

DAVENPORT - Funeral Services and Mass of Christian Burial for Phyllis E. Berens, 80, a resident of Davenport, will be Friday Friday, Aug. 21, 2015, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victoy Catholic Church, Davenport. Visitation will be on Friday at church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be at The Rock Island National Cemetery, Arsenal Island. Halligan-McCabe-DeVries Funeral Homme is assisting the family with arrangements. Phyllis passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf, surrounded by her family.

Phyllis Elaine Nygaard was born on Oct. 4, 1934, in Faith, S.D., a daughter of Elmer and Nina (Ballou) Nygaard. She married Thomas V. Berens on March 22 1954, in Igloo, S.D. They celebrated over 61 years of marriage.

Phyllis was a dedicated wife to Thomas, whose career took their family all over the world, living in Kentucky, Pennslvania, Okinawa, Germany, Korea, finally settling in Davenport in 1978. She enjoyed raising her children in the many places they lived, loved spending time with her grandchildren, as well as her many hours gardening. She was a menber of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.

Surviving Phyllis are her husband, Thomas; children, Dr. Janet (Dr. Matthew) Ehrenberg, Los Angles, Calif., Lana (Raymond) Weik, Lebanon, Pa., Thomas Vance (Marie) Berens, Clasksvill, Tenn., Kenneth (Sandra) Berens, Davenport, Jack (Insuk) Berens, Madison, Ala., and Bary (Christa) Berens; 10 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Elmer (Bonnie) Nygaard, Cervada, Colo., Lawrence Nygaard, Scott City, Kan., Melvinl (Margaret) Nygaard, and James Nygaard, all of Hot Springs, S.D. She was proceded in death by her parents, brother Terry, sisters, Helen, Leone and Mary; and a grandson Tommy. May they rest in peace.

Online condolences and remembraces may be expressed to the family by visiting Phyllis's obituary at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.


Go to top of page
9/6/2015

LaVerne "Mac" McCleerey

July 3, 1930 - Sept. 6, 2015

LaVerne (Mac) McCleerey, 75, died Sunday, September 6, 2015 at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Washington.

He is survived by his daughter Michelle Bowden, and two grandsons, Noah and Jeremy Bowden.

Mac was born and raised in Aberdeen, South Dakota and eventually moved to Hermiston, OR.

He worked at the Army Depot and worked at Simplot for 21 years. Mac enjoyed watching western movies, listening to country music, and spending time with his family.

He enjoyed his grandsons very much and spent as much time with them as he could. He liked sitting outside in his lawn chair with a Pepsi wearing his big straw hat.

He was cremated at his request and his family is having a private service. His ashes will be spread by Mt Hood, per his wishes. He was deeply loved and will be very missed.

Please send condolences at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon is in care of arrangements.


Go to top of page
9/22/2015

Donald W. Vassos

Sept. 22, 1940 - Sept. 22, 2015

Vassos, Donald W. Sep 22, 1940 - Sep 22, 2015 Survived by daughter, Diana L. Vassos; grandchildren: Logan Lee (Gabriella) and Lindsay Lee; brothers, Larry Vassos (Cassandra) and Gary Vassos (Diane); sister, Norma Jean Ginder (Justin); nieces and nephews; dear loved ones, Mike Koory and Eileen Feehan.

VISITATION Sunday, September 27th from 7pm to 8pm, followed by TIME OF SHARING at 8pm, including a special tribute to Don by his musician friends, all at the West Center Chapel. Memorials to Habitat for Humanity. HEAFEY-HOFFMANN-DWORAK-CUTLER WEST CENTER CHAPEL 7805 W. Center Rd. 402-391-3900 www.heafeyheafey.com


Go to top of page
10/19/2015

Florence Krantz

Dec. 5, 1916 - Oct. 19, 2015

EDGEMONT | We lost a beautiful mother, wife, and friend as Florence G. (Theisen) Krantz, 98, passed through Jesus to our Father on Oct.19, 2015, at the Seven Sisters Living Center in Hot Springs.

Florence was born in a sod house near Sterling, CO, on Dec. 5, 1916, to Peter H. and Sadie (Lantis) Theisen. She was the sixth child of a family of 12 children. During her school years her family lived in MO, IA, WI, MN, and SD. She was united in marriage to William E. Krantz on April 29, 1936, in Big Stone City, SD. To this union three sons were born, William F., Richard, and David Krantz.

In 1948, the family moved from St. Cloud, MN, to the Black Hills Army Depot (BHAD), Igloo, SD. She was first employed there as a Recreational Assistant at the Depots Community Building. Florence loved working with the "kids" and thought of them as her family. She later worked at the BHAD Federal Credit Union as Assistant Treasurer and Office Manager. She worked there until the Credit Union closed its doors, then various other Federal Government offices assisting in the final closure of the BHAD.

In February 1967, she and her husband moved from Igloo to Edgemont. Florence and her husband Bill were a driving force in establishing the elderly meals program in Edgemont. Florence lost her husband in 1985 and then moved to Rapid City in 2002, so she could be close to her family. In 2012, Florence moved back to her original home in Edgemont, splitting her time between her home in Edgemont and the Seven Sisters Living Center. She was an active member of the St. James Catholic Church and the Edgemont Senior Citizens.

Florence loved her family, friends, and thoroughly enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each year she looked forward to having her great-grandchildren spend time with her during the Fall River County Fair Days. They all attended the events together and put aside a special day for baking pies. In 1986, Florence took four of the teenage grandchildren to Sweden to visit their uncles, aunts, and cousins. The main focus of this trip was to explore their Grandfather's "roots," as he had emigrated from Sundsvall, Sweden, in 1929.

Florence is survived by one son, David, and his wife Brenda of Rapid City; a sister, Lucille Stewart, Edgemont; daughter-in-law, Betty Krantz, Chadron, NE; nine grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Florence was preceded in death by her husband, William E. Krantz; two sons, William F. and Richard Krantz; father, Peter H. Theisen; mother, Sadie (Lantis) Theisen; ten brothers and one sister.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. today at Kirk Funeral Home in Rapid City, and for one hour before services at the church.

Mass of Christian Burial is set for 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at St. James Catholic Church in Edgemont. Interment will be at the Edgemont Cemetery.

A Memorial has been established to the St. James Catholic Church, Edgemont, and the Edgemont Senior Citizens Club.

Friends may sign Florence's online guestbook at kirkfuneralhome.com.


Go to top of page
10/24/2015

Sylvia (Kautz) Heldman

Sept. 25, 1937 - Oct. 24, 2015

Hot Springs - Sylvia, 78, died Saturday, October 24, 2015 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Sylvia was born on September 25, 1937 in Bismarck, ND to Calvin and Emma Kautz.

She attended school in Artas, SD, Igloo, SD and graduated in Edgemont, SD.

She worked at the Veterans Administration Hospital for 42 years. Upon retirement she became very active at the Senior Citizens Center. Her ashes will be buried with her parents near Edgemont, SD. As per Sylvia's wishes a public memorial was not held.

She is survived by two sons, Jeffrey Heldman, Austell, GA and Tommy Heldman, Doraville, GA; one daughter, Kim Gregg, McDonough, GA; one sister, Geraldine Noe, Bethleham, PA; one brother, Calvin Kautz Jr., Rapid City, SD; four grandchildren, Victoria Heldman, Dakota Heldman, Michael Heldman, Jordan Gregg, and one step-grandchild, Timothy Gregg II.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one brother and two sisters. We loved her dearly and she will be truly missed by her family and many friends.


Go to top of page
10/30/2015

Dave Fix

Oct. 19, 1945 - Oct. 30, 2015

(no obit at this time)


Go to top of page
12/10/2015

Roger Owen Strain

Roger was born on May 18, 1939 and passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2015.

Roger was a resident of Morrill, Nebraska at the time of his passing.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday December 14 at East Gate .


Go to top of page
12/22/2015

David H. Martinez

DAVID H. MARTINEZ, The Villages FL and formerly of Chambersburg PA, completed this life's journey on Dec 22, 2015. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Deborah, son Duffy (Wildwood FL), Sister Bonnie Mullison, (Ft Lauderdale FL), many nieces and nephews and his faithful dog, Mojo. He was preceded in death by Brothers Mike, Richard, Clifford and two daughters, Veronica and Kristin whom he loved dearly.

David was born in Sioux City, Iowa on March 25, 1942 and grew up in Igloo, SD. He served in the Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and had a distinguished 27-year civilian career with the Department of the Army. He was the CEO/owner of the former MCCS, Inc. and the recipient of the Defense Logistics Agency's Innovative Business Performer of the Year in 2000. He was a member of VFW Post 1599 and American Legion Post 46.

Prior to his illness, David was an avid golfer and lived life with gusto. A gathering of family and friends will be scheduled at a later date.

A special thanks to the Villages Hospice Team (Kathy, Tiki, Sue), Hospice House staff, Mary Smeltz, Bonita Villa neighbors and many friends for their support during this journey. Memorial contributions can be made to The Villagers for Hospice, 601 Casa Bella, The Villages, FL 32162.

Online condolences may be left at www.beyersfuneralhome.com

Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home and Crematory, Lady Lake, FL


Go to top of page
12/22/2015

Jay A. Firnekas

Born in Buffalo, Wyoming on June 14, 1924. Died in Glendale, Arizona on December 22, 2015. He is survived by his wife of nearly 69 years, Mary Anne (Wages); two daughters, Pamela Elser, Phoenix, Arizona, and Sandra Beissner, Rathdrum, Idaho; two grandsons, Michael Elser, Glendale, Arizona, and Brian Elser, Phoenix, Arizona; two granddaughters, Michele Osburn, Talala, Oklahoma, and Bobbee Poplawski, Ephrata,Washington; one brother, Dean Firnekas, Buffalo, Wyoming, and 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Ilo Firnekas ,Buffalo, Wyoming, and brother Calvin Firnekas, Buffalo, Wyoming.

During WWll, Jay served in the Army. One of his assignments was as an armored M.P in China, Burma and India for which he received the rare Chaing medal from General Chaing Kai-Shek. After the war he joined the South Dakota National Guard and was a member of the ski troops in Alaska. After his military service ended, he continued in Civil Service and served as a missile and ammunition inspector in Korea; Ammunition Inspection Chief in Vietnam and Vietnam Advisor for the U.S. Embassy. His last assignment was as an instructor for nuclear missile and gas ammunition at the Army Ammunition School in Savanna, Illinois.

He retired in 1974 to Rogers, Arkansas before moving to Southern Arizona in 1983 living in Sierra Vista, Benson and finally Glendale.

A memorial service will be held at Skinner Memorial Chapel at Glencroft in Glendale, Arizona. January 23, 2016 at 1:30 P.M.


Go to top of page
12/23/2015

James Louis Ritter

June 29, 1929 - Dec. 23, 2015

James Louis Ritter, age 86, formerly of Edgemont, SD, passed away on December 23, 2015, at the Brookestone Village in Omaha, NE.

James was born on June 29, 1929, in Dupree, SD, to Louis and Barbara Ritter.

James is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Donna Ritter of Clarksville, TN; Tony and Sharon Ritter of Omaha; 7 grandchildren and 7 great great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by wife, Shirley; daughter, Cindy Zellner; sister, Doris Smith.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 28, 2015, at the St. James Catholic Church in Edgemont, with Fr. Kerry Prendiville celebrant. Interment will follow at the Edgemont Cemetery.

A memorial in James's name has been established to benefit St. James Catholic Church of Edgemont.


Go to top of page



IE tested in Internet Explorer 8 firefox tested in Mozilla Firefox 3.5.7 chrome tested in Google Chrome
1920 X 1080 resolution