Watertown High School

Class of 1956 ~ 55 Years of Ripening

 

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Classmate Obituaries will be archived on this page.  If you have older obituaries from classmates please send them to me and we will include them here.  Thanks,  Wes

Watertown High School Class of 1956
Maralyn Bassett

Joe

Hemmer

Joyce

Nelson Evjen

   

DeWayne

Hjermstad

Jim

Pickering

Steve

Belatti

Sally

Kittleson Person

Ted

Sanders

Stan Busskohl     Mary Lou Sheehan Shriver
Dick Beynon     Carol Skells Matthes
        Dwight Small

Catherine

Cooper

Jerry Small

LaDonna

Cox

E Steeves Smith

Darrel

Crocker

Wayne

Konrady

Don Splinter
John Dugan

Jake

Krull

Barb

Stoltenburg

Robert Dunn

John

Miles

Lawrence

Strohfus

Donald

Ellison

Harold

Mills

Hal

Sutherland

Corrine

Erickson

Donna

Moeller Fjelstad

Janice

Turbak Hubbard

Barbara

Erickson Rex

Beverly

Moquist Skinner

Margery

Smith Whitten

Tom

Frankenhoff

    JoAnne Wietgrefe Wayrynen
Gary Grundy     Bruce Williams

Janet

Hammrich

Jerry

Murphy

Larry

Wolff

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John Henry Dugan, of the Eastern Shore, Maryland, passed away on December 9, 2021, following a long battle with esophageal cancer.

He is survived by his daughter Shawn Louise Dugan Drysdale (Neil Drysdale) and Michael Roby Dugan (Marlene Dugan) three grandchildren John Henry Dugan, Katelyn Dugan and Lita Drysdale. He is survived by five siblings, Joe Dugan (Jeanene Dugan), Mary Merz (Norm Merz), Patty Marx, Jane Dugan and Jim Dugan (Jane Dugan). He is also survived by his partner Nora Spicer and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

John was born in Watertown on November 18, 1938, the oldest child of Henry (Bud) and Inie Dugan. He graduated from Watertown High school in 1956 and he went on to graduate from South Dakota State University in 1960.

Following college John entered into the Naval Officers Candidate school and became a jet fighter pilot. He was one of the Navy’s early “Top Gun” pilots and was a naval test pilot. He served two tours of duty in the Tonkin Gulf and was assigned to the USS Ranger and the USS Enterprise during the Viet Nam War. Following his Navy tour, John worked in the Aerospace Division at Westinghouse.
He lived in Ireland for a number of years running the Westinghouse plant in Limerick. He later worked for Westinghouse’s successor company, Northrop Grumman, and retired from that company.
John loved life.

He was a gifted storyteller, piano player and jokester. Having grown up in South Dakota, John was an avid bird hunter and fly fisherman. He would often travel with his friends and son and grandson to Canada, Montana and Florida to fly fish. He returned to Watertown every fall to hunt with his brothers. John became a collector of antiques and was a talented woodworker.
He will be greatly missed.

The family would appreciate memorials to the Wounded Warrior organization, a cause near to John’s heart.

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Maralyn BassettMaralyn (Bassett)Twombley, 79, of Arlington, passed away on Friday, March 9, 2018, at the Arlington Care Center in Arlington, South Dakota. Following her wishes, Maralyn will be cremated, with a graveside service occurring at a later date.

Maralyn Bassett was born on May 26, 1938, to Loren and Mona (Goodrich) Bassett in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Throughout her youth, her family moved many times, and they called several South Dakota cities home, including Mitchell, Aberdeen, Watertown, Yankton, and Brookings. In the later part of her senior year, Maralyn’s family settled in Watertown, South Dakota, where she graduated from high school.

Maralyn was united in marriage to LeRoy Twombley on July 28, 1957, in Watertown, South Dakota. To this union three sons were born: Greg, Wayne, and Jim.

Maralyn was a wife and mother, and spent much of her adult life caring for her husband and children as a housewife. She will be remembered as a wonderful mother, wife, and friend to all that she met.

Those surviving Maralyn include sons: Greg (Jennifer) Twombley, of Woodbridge, VA, Wayne (Jenny) Twombley, of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Jim Twombley, of Inwood, IA; 6 grandchildren, Lauran, Tyler, Lindsey, Andrew, Emily, and Jacob, 3 great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Connor, and Sebastian, sister-in-law, Gladys Bassett, Beulah Stoltz, Lola Busch and 12 nieces and nephews.

Maralyn was preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy, parents, Loren and Mona Bassett; brother, Robert; and grandson Todd.

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Robert DunnFound this information on November 24, 2021

Robert W. Dunn
December 8, 1937 - June 13, 2019
Robert W. Dunn, 81, passed away June 13, 2019 in Grants Pass, OR. He was born Dec. 8, 1937 in Watertown, SD to Joseph L. and Vyonne L. Dunn. He moved with his family to Medford, OR in 1955. Bob graduated from Medford HS in 1956. He proudly served his country as a Marine from 1967 to 1969 attaining the rank of Sergeant.
After his military service, Bob worked for Medford Corporation and Boise Cascade as an electrician. His hobbies included camping and cruising.
Bob was a loving son, brother, uncle and great-uncle. He is survived by brother, Joe (Mary) Dunn; and sisters, Colleen Miller, Karen Read, Cheryl (William) Gates and Monica (James) Breedlove.
A graveside service will be held at Eagle Point National Cemetery on July 8th at 11:00 AM.

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I received this information from Kelly Small on July 12, 2021:

Jerry Small passed away Friday, March 5th at 8:01pm from dementia related issues. He was with his wife, Kay, myself and my daughter. He is greatly missed by his wife, 3 children, 9 grandchildren and 4 great grand children and numerous other family and friends. His finally resting place will be at Fort Gibson here in Oklahoma .

There is no obituary.

 

Carol Mary (Skells) Matthes peacefully passed away on November 13, 2020.

Carol was born on December 25, 1937. She married Orval Matthes on October 2, 1959 in Mitchell, South Dakota, where the couple lived and raised their family for many years.

Carol taught elementary school in Mitchell for several years and continued to substitute teach while her children were young. She enjoyed being with her family, gardening, playing cards, and bowling.

Carol is remembered as a loving, patient, and kind wife, mother, grandmother, sister, niece, cousin, and friend. She saw the best in everyone and always trusted God’s plans. She treasured her grandchildren and embraced every moment with them.

Carol is survived by her husband Orval Matthes, her daughter Susan Kobat, her son Robert (Niki) Matthes, her sisters Patricia (Harlan) Bach and Janette (Brian) Stubson; grandchildren Lucas (Tiffany) Kobat, Kayla Kobat, Cassandra and Grace Matthes and great grandchildren Ariah and Brooks Kobat. All of these she loved and touched deeply.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Evelyn Skells and her sister Ruth Steichen.

Family and friends are invited to attend a walk through visitation on Tuesday, October 17, 2020 from 1:00 — 2:00 p.m. at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown, South Dakota. A Memorial Service will be held immediately after at 2:00 p.m. following the visitation.

Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown, South Dakota. Honorary pallbearers will be Lucas Kobat, Richard Schaack, Harlan Bach, Brian Bach, Brian Stubson, and Andrew Stubson.

In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a Go Fund Me page where funds will be utilized for the staff and residents of Wrage Village at Jenkins Living Center in Watertown, South Dakota, where Carol spent the last couple years of her journey.

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E Steeves Smith E. Steeves Smith, 82, of Mitchell, SD, died Friday, October 30, 2020 at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital. The family of E. Steeves Smith would appreciate any written remembrances sent to the care of Bittner Funeral Chapel at: 805 W. Havens Ave., Mitchell, SD 57301. Funeral arrangements are pending under the direction of Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Click here for the guest book.

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SUMMIT - Thomas Walter Frankenhoff, 83 years of age, passed away on Tuesday, November 3 in Arizona.

Tom was born April 17, 1937 in Waubay, South Dakota to Walter and Flora Frankenhoff. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1956. Many of his early years were spent in Summit, SD. Tom graduated from Dakota Wesleyan College in Mitchell, SD with a degree in Education in 1960. He then served in the US Army and spent time working in Ft. Sam Houston in the burn unit of the Hospital. Tom had a 42-year long career in education, working as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. He always enjoyed hearing from his former students.

Tom married the love of his life, Barbara Amdahl, in 1967, celebrating 53 years of marriage together. They have 3 children, Todd, Tim and Cara. They have 7 grandchildren.

Tom was an avid TV watcher and enjoyed watching Sunday afternoon car races, football games (especially his beloved Packers), Western movies (especially John Wayne), and all types of sports. Tom loved to fish. His best fishing buddy was Larry Rumpca and he enjoyed many fishing outings with friends and family. One of his favorite things to do was to attend school activities of his grandchildren. Grandpa Tom was a great gift giver, he bought many new bikes for his grandchildren over the years.

Left to cherish his loving memory are his wife Barb of Summit, SD, Todd (Dawn) Frankenhoff of Tea, SD, Tim (Laura) Frankenhoff of Summit, SD, Cara (Chris) Frank of Maple Grove, MN and his 7 cherished grandchildren, Jackson, Madi Jo, Adriann, Allyson, Thomas, Cassidy, Carson. He is also survived by siblings, Vaughn (Marlin) Berger of Watertown, SD, Arvid (Karen) Frankenhoff of Lancaster, VA, Darwin (Mariah) Frankenhoff of Salem, OR, Sister-in-law Sharon Frankenhoff of Baytown, TX, Brother-in-law Allen Amdahl of Summit, SD, and several special nieces and nephews. Their best friends of 55 years, Larry and Leslyan Rumpca of Maricopa, AZ.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Flora Frankenhoff, stepmother Luella Abrahamsom, Special Aunt Donna Edwards, and brother David Frankenhoff.

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Richard "Dick" Dwayne Beynon, 82, Vancouver, died July 14, 2020.

Evergreen Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel

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Splinter, Donald Eugene, 81 , of Renton, Jan, 26, 2020

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Dwight Small passed away last night, March 8, 2020 in Tucson, AZ He had interstitial pneumonitis -- Donna Yocom

There hasn't been a Memorial Service yet and as far as I know, no official obituary. He "flew West" (pilot terminology for passing away) on Sunday evening March 9th in Tucson. I can tell you that he was retired from FedEx where he flew Captain for them for many years after that company bought out The Flying Tigers where Dwight worked first. He was an accomplished photographer and he volunteered in a program which taught youngsters the basics of flying. He is survived by wife CarolAnn (one word) and daughter Sheila (Dave) Rivera, daughter Susan Small and granddaughter Erin, and sister Donna (Ken) Yocom, brothers Gayle Small, Rick Small, Michael Small and Steven Small and many nieces and nephews.

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DeWayne K. Hjermstad age 80, of Shoreview, formerly of Burnsville, passed away on September 13, 2018. DeWayne will be remembered for his love of life and family, contagious smile and laugh, and love for golf and fishing. He was preceded in death by his parents, and ex-wife, Barbara. Survived by children, Steve (Kathy), Dave, Lori (Jeff) Crandall; grandchildren Michael (Cali), Madison, Aaron (Leah) Crandall, Justin Crandall; also by other loving relatives. A private family memorial will be held.

Published on September 23, 2018

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JoAnne “Jo” Wietgrefe Wayrynen, 81, of Watertown passed away on November 16, 2019 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

Jo was born on November 6, 1938 in Los Angeles, CA to Fred and Gladys (McKay) Benz, and was soon after adopted by “Dad”, Lonnie Wietgrefe, when he married Gladys in November of 1940.

Jo graduated from Watertown High School in 1956, and went on to pursue her teaching certificate from Northern State University in Aberdeen and a bachelor’s degree in History from Dakota State University in Madison. During her early career in elementary education she taught in Castlewood and Scotland, SD.

She married Lynn Wayrynen in 1965, and together they had three children: Shawn, Laura, and Michelle. In the words of Lynn’s cousin, Leland Olson, “The Lord puts opposites together and then sits back and smiles, as they try to bring out the best in each other.” Although they eventually parted ways, Jo told her kids that she never had any regrets because in her words, “I wouldn’t change anything that brought you three kids into my life.”

Beyond her family, the focus of Jo’s life was on helping other people — be that as an educator, an activist for women’s rights, a volunteer for various family services agencies like Habitat for Humanity, and as the Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center (now the Beacon Center) in Watertown. She served the community in this position for over 20 years up until her retirement in November 2005.

For herself, Jo enjoyed the arts in all forms, and particularly enjoyed classic movies. Her kids would often tease her by changing the color settings on the television to black & white, tuning into MTV, and exclaiming her words, “If it’s in black & white, it must be good!” She was always an avid reader, and her musical tastes ran from classical to doo-wop to rock, or whatever her kids were listening to. She would go to all of the local live music that she could, and particularly liked the Thursday Night Live outdoor concerts in downtown Watertown.

Jo had a group of very close friends who for years would meet the first and third Friday of every month for dinner at each other’s houses. Jo’s favorite month to host was December. She loved to decorate her house and yard for all holidays, but Christmas in particular was special to her. It makes sense because it’s the season of giving, which was what Jo was all about. She was also a member of the local Red Hat Mamas group, and a lifelong member of St. Martin’s Lutheran Church in Watertown.

Jo remained very active in her later years, always surprising people who thought she was much younger than she was. She was always very strong-willed, successfully fighting stage 3 breast cancer in 2016-17. She had an infectious energy, a whimsical disposition, and a silly sense of humor, and she loved Christmas, cats, and her two grandkids, Alex & Gracie, the joys of her life.

Jo is survived by her daughters, Laura (Michael) Shaeffer of Fairbanks, AK and Michelle (Jamie) Kakacek of Watertown, her grandchildren, Alexander and Grace Kakacek, and her kitty, Mittens.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lonnie & Gladys Wietgrefe, her brother, Irvin Wietgrefe, her sister, Lorraine Benthin, and her son, Shawn.

Those wishing to honor Jo with a memorial gift are encouraged to give to an organization of their choice that provides support to members of their local community who are in need.

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Obituary

Judith RedemskeJudith "Judy" Ann Redemske, 80, of Watertown, passed away on August 24th, 2019 at Avantara Watertown Care Center with family by her side 

Funeral mass will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 29, 2019 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Watertown with Fr. Richard Fox as celebrant.

 Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown.

 Visitation will be from 5-7:00 p.m., with a scripture service starting at 7 p.m. and rosary to follow, Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel in Watertown.

 Memorials may be directed to the Salvation Army or charity of your choice.

 Pallbearers will be Donald Kranz, Jason Redemske, Brennan Kranz, Jeff Webster, Landen Geerdes and Drew Bakken.

 Honorary Pallbearers will her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, Kenny Wight, Dennis Webster and the entire Avantara Care Center staff.

 Judy was born on January 20, 1939 at Bartron Hospital in Watertown, South Dakota to Clarence J. (Butch) and Jean M. (Webster) Langenfeld. She attended Immaculate Conception Catholic School through eighth grade and graduated from Watertown Senior High School in 1956. During her teen years, Judy was employed at Langenfeld’s Ice Cream, the family business. Judy then went to work as a secretary for Gribbin & Burns Law Firm in Watertown.

 On February 13, 1965, Judy was united in marriage to Willard Redemske at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Watertown, South Dakota. Her daughter, Leslie, was born on January 12, 1966 and her son, Jason, was born the same year on December 14. She was so very proud of her “Irish twins”. Judy was a stay-at-home mom and homemaker for most of her life. She entered Avantara (formerly Golden Living Center) in August of 2015.

 Judy was a life-long member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and was a very proud Catholic. She was an avid supporter of many different charities. Judy loved watching the New York Yankees, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune. Her favorite go-to snack was Oreo cookies and she loved anything chocolate, especially ice cream. She was an amazing crossword puzzle enthusiast. Judy loved and adored her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

 Judy is survived by her daughter, Leslie (Don) Kranz and her son, Jason (Bridget) Redemske, all of Watertown, SD; her grandchildren, Brittany (Jade) Cowan of Wellington, CO; Brennan (Amberly) Kranz; Landen (Maria) Geerdes; Breyanna Geerdes (Jacob Ronke); and McKenzie (Drew) Bakken, all of Watertown, SD; and five great-grandchildren: Veda & Bennett Cowan, Hannah & Hailey Geerdes, and Emma Arment. Judy is also survived by her sister, Lonnie (Jim) Soyer of Watertown, SD; her brother, Richard Langenfeld of Eureka, SD; and her brother-in-law, Rollo Korth of Watertown, SD.

 She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.https://www.wightandcomes.com/memorials/judith-redemske/3955438/index.php

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Janice Hubbard, 80, was welcomed into Heaven on Saturday, May 4, 2019 after a long illness. 

Janice was born in Watertown, SD on August 12, 1938 to Albert and Anna Turbak. Janice, known as “Jan” to her friends and her 11 siblings, went on to graduate from Watertown High School in 1956. Born into a banking family, Jan followed in her father’s footsteps and spent her career serving in a variety of capacities in the banking industry. 

Jan met the love of her life, James (Jim) Hubbard, in Rapid City. The two were wed on August 20, 1965. They were truly meant for each other, making the most of every minute they had together with love, laughter, and service to one another. In their retirement, Jan and Jim were very active in their church, community volunteer work, and the Republican Party. Jan was especially proud to have received an award in 2002 for “Hauling Water for the Elephant” at the annual Pennington County Lincoln Day Dinner. After Jim’s passing in 2006, Jan made the most of life without her soulmate by spending time with family and keeping herself busy with her marvelous sketching, though her daily focus in life had now become her faith and her ultimate reunion with her beloved Jim and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 

Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Anna Turbak; husband, Jim; sisters, Kathleen Wirtz, Joan Kluckman, Ann O’Toole, Maxine Smith; brothers, Terry Turbak, Jerome Turbak, Alfred Turbak, and Butch Turbak.

Grateful for having shared in her life are her surviving siblings, Mary Lue (Turbak) Johnson, Melvin Turbak, Larry Turbak; dozens of nieces and nephews; Jim’s children, Dennis Hubbard, Bradley Seagul, Lindsay Alire; and the amazing entire staff from Willow 1 at the South Dakota Human Services Center, who cared for her as if she were their own until the moment of her parting.

Her love, laugh, faith, sweet smile and fun, feisty spirit will be forever missed.

https://www.kirkfuneralhome.com/obituary/janice-hubbard

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Gary Grundy, a gifted process engineer who loved people, dies at 80

Gary Grundy lived his life quietly working in the background to ensure that others would reach their full potential.

Grundy, who worked as a business consultant mentoring corporations and nonprofits on how to improve their work processes, died Dec. 10 at his Lakeville home. He was 80. But as his many friends and admirers will tell you, his legacy lives on in the good works of others.

Grundy was born in South Dakota and was raised by his grandmother. He had a physical disability that made walking progressively difficult and a learning disability — likely dyslexia — that led some of his early teachers to say he wouldn't amount to much, said Laura Vannelli, a lawyer at the Mayo Clinic who counts him as her godfather and lifelong mentor.

Vannelli said an aunt of Grundy's pushed him to break through his limitations, and he discovered that hard work, together with careful and creative analysis, could overcome most obstacles. It's a lesson he passed on liberally to colleagues, clients, friends and neighbors.

"He had a positive attitude," said Karen, his wife of 52 years. "He was always trying to get well so he could keep doing all of his things, but his body let him down in the end."

At the age of 3, Grundy began whittling alongside his grandfather, and he went on to become a master woodworker. He carved dozens of clocks, and those he didn't give away hang all around the home he designed after he could no longer make it up and down the stairs at his longtime abode in Apple Valley.

"He'd make beautiful pieces of furniture. The guy could design something just in his head and sketch it out just roughly and make something — a real Renaissance man," said Karl Oestreich, a Mayo Clinic spokesman and longtime friend.

Grundy got his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from North Dakota State University. He went to work at Unisys, which later became Lockheed Martin, and ultimately retired from Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Along the way, he earned a master's degree in business administration from the University of St. Thomas.

"Gary was always the guy making introductions — making friends with people who had nothing in common," Vannelli recalled. "He'd facilitate the conversation without driving it. He was incredibly bright. And when the conversation was dying down, he was the person to jump in with a joke or something."

Grundy served twice on the board of Lifeworks, a nonprofit organization serving people with disabilities, and he volunteered more than 300 hours teaching the Lifeworks staff management tools and processes that he called the Business Capability Model, which is outlined in his 2009 book, "The Fifth Breakthrough."

In 2012, Lifeworks gave him its Advocate of the Year award.

Judy M. Lysne, former president and CEO of Lifeworks, wrote in an e-mail that Grundy shared the insights he had gained from his career.

"His work demanded excellent process skills and infinite attention to detail. His humorous explanation for his passion for detail was that 'no one likes it when airplanes fall from the sky,' " Lysne said. "He deeply understood that the individuals doing the work need to be involved in designing the flow of work processes and procedures."

Oestreich, who worked with Grundy at Blue Cross and Blue Shield, said he was a champion for his team members. "He was very respectful, but he was never afraid to go toe to toe with a leader," Oestreich said. "He was one of those guys you just gained a lot of energy from."

Services will be held at a later date, his family said.

http://www.startribune.com/gary-grundy-a-gifted-process-engineer-who-loved-people-dies-at-80/503662522/

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JoAnna (Jody) Mae (Cooley) Leisure, 80, of Brookings, passed away peacefully in her home on December 30, 2018. She was born on June 4th, 1938 in Forest City, IA to Hugh and Adella (Hauge) Cooley. She attended school in Northwood, IA, Glenwood, MN, and graduated from Watertown High School. She married her High School sweetheart, Orie W. Leisure and they have lived in Brookings, SD for the majority of their life together. She worked in various jobs throughout her life, but is best known for her work at The Index Stationers and Office Supply until her retirement.
 
Jody was a kind and fun-loving lady, who had a unique and wonderful gift of making all who knew her...family, friends and strangers alike...feel loved and welcome. Most of her favorite activities include interacting with others. She enjoyed having coffee with loved ones...at her favorite cafes, or on her back patio. She was an active member of First Lutheran Church, especially in the choir and handbell choir. She was active in her community, including community music events and Aeolians Music Club. She enjoyed playing tennis, sewing, quilting and reading. But, her "first love" was tending to her beautiful gardens at her beloved Buffalo Lake. You would often see her admiring her newest blooms as the morning dew sparkled just like her beautiful eyes...with one hand on her hip, and holding a cup of coffee in her other hand...the classic, and much beloved "Jody pose". 
 
Survivors include her husband Ora (Orie) W Leisure; her children: Derek (Nancy) Leisure of Bruce SD, Deiedre Leisure of Tempe AZ, Thomas (Jill) Leisure of Clear Lake IA, and Brita (Jeff) Huisken of Rapid City SD; 7 grandchildren; Seth, Rachel, Brooke, Trent, Ryan, Mallory, and Madison, “adopted daughters” Adella and Leslie; “adopted grandchildren”; Jared, Lelia, Dustin, Barbara, Reed, Kimberly, Devin, Adam, Julia, Alex, and Samantha; 4 great grandchildren; Christian,Phinaes, Ashton, and Carter, many nieces, nephews, and a whole myriad of beloved cousins.
 
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Gene Cooley; her sister, Barbara Serrin and a son, William.

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We have confirmed that John Miles passed away during 2018.  The only thing we found was from his Facebook page and was entered by his son. Please let us know if you know anything else.1/2/19 Derek let me know that there was no obit for John.

"Derek Miles I rarely check this but I should more often. I hope both of you are doing well. Unfortunately we lost my father a few months ago. He eventually lost a battle with cancer and some kidney issues. Mom has been tough though and is excited about moving to South Dakota to be near us. She purchased a beautiful new home and we are looking forward to completing her move soon. Thanks for thinking of him and it should be known that his presence is always with us as evidence in this pic of him and my son both at 2yrs old. Crazy!!!"

We received a very nice tribute from Sherwin Linton for John and Jim Antrim along with a couple pictures.

Click on the Pictures

I was saddened to learn of the death of John Miles. John was my first bass player with my band "The Rocketeers" in 1955 / 1956. John was an excellent musician playing trombone, piano and string bass. We would sneak the bass out of the orchestra room at Watertown High on Friday afternoon and load it on top of my Studebaker along with guitars and a couple drums in the trunk and play dances in northeast South Dakota. John had a great personality. Pictured in the attached photos we are practicing in the driveway at my home on West Kemp. Pictured are: Jim Antrim on guitar, John on bass and myself on electric guitar. Early Rock and Rollers.  Sherwin

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CrockerDarrel Crocker, age 80, of Watertown, SD passed from this life into the loving arms of his Lord, Sunday, September 16, 2018.

Interment will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown with military honors by the National Guard and the American Legion Post 17. Pallbearers will be Vance Crocker, Todd Crocker, Jim Barber, Alex Enderle, Dan Crocker and Bryan Crocker.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be designated to "Access Ministry" 25 W. Kemp Ave., Watertown, SD 57201, or through Darrel's church.
Darrel was born January 2, 1938, in Watertown, SD to George W. and Frances I (Preston) Crocker. He graduated from Watertown High School, class of 1956, then graduated from SDSU with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He also served in the Army National Guard as an E5.
On April 23, 1961, Darrel married Geraldine "Gerry" Kleveter in Goodwin, SD. They were blessed with three children, Christy, Vance and Todd. His career took him from Watertown, SD to Minneapolis, MN to Atlanta, GA and back to Watertown, SD in 1980 where he remained until his retirement in 2000 with Western Area Power Administration. Darrel became a follower of Christ at a very young age. He ministered to others though his gift of music after his retirement.
In addition to his love of Christ, Darrel enjoyed traveling with Gerry to see their children, grandchildren and great grandchild. Their favorite adventure was a trip to Israel to see where Jesus carried out his earthly ministry. They also enjoyed taking cruises together.

Some of Darrel's favorite past-times included hunting with his sons, operating Ham Radios, riding his motorcycle and tinkering with anything broken. Darrel also enjoyed ice skating which began as a child while skating with his younger brother, Ronnie. Darrel's love of skating continued as he and Gerry directed and performed in the Watertown Ice Show.
Darrel is survived by his wife, Gerry; their three children, Christy (Jim) Barber of Pickerington, OH, Vance (Sue) Crocker of Pueblo, CO and Todd (Lindsay) Crocker of McKinney, TX; four granddaughters, Ashley (Alex) Enderle,

Gerry has sent us an audio copy of an eulogy from his funeral. 

"I didn’t know if any classmates would be interested in listening to the audio of Darrel’s funeral, I used 2 prerecorded songs of Darrel singing , the first song is sheltered in the arms of God & the 2nd song is How Great Thou Art.  Also, our 3 children spoke, 1st our oldest, Christy, who lives in Columbus, Ohio,  2nd is Vance, Pueblo, Colorado,  last, Todd, Mckinney, Texas,  

Darrel is so missed, but, God has been so comforting me, which I am so thankful for & I just need to think on all the blessings that God had blessed us with, it is a journey that no one wants to go through, but I am so thankful that God is helping me through it, let me know if the audio works ok, love Gerry"

You can access the files here
Darrel's Recording, "Sheltered in the Arms of God" Darrel's Recording, "How Great Thou Art"  
The readings Christy, Memories  
Vance, Memories Todd, Memories  

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Stanley F. “Stan” Busskohl, 79, of Henry, passed away on Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Watertown with Father Paul Rutten officiating. Music will be furnished by the Immaculate Conception Funeral Choir accompanied by Danielle Holmquist-Holida.

Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Watertown.

Stanley Frederick Busskohl was born on February 8, 1938, to Frederick C. and LaDeene (Konrady) Busskohl in Vail, Iowa. He moved with his family to Watertown at the age of five and attended school in Watertown. Following his graduation from Watertown High School in 1956, Stan joined the National Guard and served for 10 years.

On July 20, 1963, he married Donna LaFramboise at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Watertown. The couple lived on a farm near Henry where they raised their family and farmed for many years. Stan worked at both sale barns, primarily SD Livestock for over 50 years. Throughout those years, he also helped with the Watertown Winter Farm Show.

Stan loved to have the grandkids help him on the bobcat, play cards and was a “master collector” of toys and guns. He was a member of the American Legion of Watertown.

Stan is survived by his wife, Donna Busskohl of Henry; his children, Sheila (Rick) Pieschke of Watertown, Penny (Ed) Fisher, Mike (Robin) Busskohl, Kaye (Merlin) Heathcote and Randy (Stacey) Busskohl all of Florence, Chad (Michele) Busskohl of Atwater, Minn., and Danny (Christy) Busskohl of Henry; three sisters, Joyce Weber of Henry, Diane (Jim) Parkhill of Elk River, Minn., and Bev Aarstad of Watertown; 21 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and his nieces and nephews.

Arrangements by Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel, www.wightandcomes.com.

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Stephen J. Belatti, age 79, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Saturday, January 21, 2017, at a care center in Lake Norden, SD. A Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 26, 2017, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Watertown. The celebrant will be Fr. Paul Rutten. Music will be provided by the I. C. Funeral Choir accompanied by Danielle Holmquist-Holiday. The family is requested to meet at the church on Thursday by 10:00 a.m. for a prayer service.

There will be no visitation. Arrangements are being handled by the Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel of Watertown.
Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown. Honorary pallbearers will be the staff and residents at Golden Living Center-Lake Norden. Active pallbearers will be: Sara Hakeman, Karen Hakeman, Austin Hakeman, Bret Griffin, Ben Griffin, Izzie Griffin, Claire Belatti and Tony Belatti.

Stephen was born on December 21, 1937, at Watertown, SD, to Oscar and Carlotta (Moody) Belatti. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1956. Stephen served his country in the U.S. Army for three years. Following an honorable discharge, he returned to Watertown.

On April 16, 1966, Stephen married Bonnie Crawford at Holy Name Catholic Church in Watertown. He attended Dakota State College where he obtained a degree in education. Stephen taught for three years before working for the Department of Labor. He also started Daylight Donuts which he owned and operated for eight years. He retired in 1996 after suffering a stroke.

He was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church of Watertown. Stephen was well known as a great story teller. He loved ice fishing, duck hunting with his good buddies and watching his grandchildren grow.

Stephen is survived by his wife, Bonnie; one son, Steve (Suzanne) Belatti, of Portland, OR; one daughter, Chrissy (Stacy) Hakeman, of Lake Norden; one son-in-law, Ash Griffin, of Watertown; one daughter-in-law, Libbie Prior; 10 grandchildren; one brother, Dr. Richard (Marilyn) Belatti, of Madison, SD; and one sister, Sr. Katie Belatti, of St. Paul, MN.

He was preceded in death by one son, Tony Belatti; one daughter, Carrie Griffin; and his parents.  

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Life Legacy

Jacob J. "Jake" Krull, age 77, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Friday, November 25, 2016 at Prairie Lakes Hospital.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 30, 2016 at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Watertown with Reverend Gary Westgard officiating. 

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday at the Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel in Watertown, and for one prior to the service on Wednesday at the church.

Interment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Watertown, SD. Military honors will be conducted by the South Dakota Army National Guard Funeral Honors Team.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Dick Jurgens, Harvey Hammrich, Ernie Edwards, John Foley, Don Goldhorn, Merle Brower and Richard DeBerg.

Active Pallbearers will be Kevin, Tom, Crissy, Carrie, Kelsey, Jay, Noah and Leah Krull.

Jacob J. “Jake” Krull was born December 23, 1938, to Jacob E. Krull and Katherine (DeBerg) Krull in Watertown, South Dakota. He grew up on a dairy farm south of Watertown, and attended rural school at Foley No. 7. He attended and was confirmed in the First Congregational Church in Watertown. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1956. He graduated from South Dakota State University in Brookings with a B.S. in Economics in 1960. While at SDSU, Jake played football and baseball.

Jake married Phyllis Skillman in Rapid City, South Dakota, on February 19, 1961 and they were married for 55 years. Jake was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Army, and they were stationed at Ft. Bliss in El Paso, Texas.

After leaving active duty in 1963, Jake entered the insurance business with his father J.E. in the National Farmer’s Union Insurance Company in Watertown. In 1984, Jake was promoted to state manager, and he and Phyllis moved to Huron. For the next five years, he increased the professionalism of the agents with many going from part-time to full-time agents, resulting in increased production and better service for policy holders. From 1989 to 2001, he served as president of Denver-based NFUIC, turning a financially-stressed company into a consistently profitable one with a “AA” rating from A.M. Best Company.

Starting in 1963, Jake joined the South Dakota Army National Guard in Watertown. He served for 26 years in the Guard, retiring as a Brigadier General in 1989. In 1972, Jake was elected to the state Senate from Codington County. He served five 2-year terms, retiring as the Senate Minority Leader in 1982. After retiring from Farmer’s Union in 2001, Jake remained active with his alma mater, joining the SDSU Foundation board in 2003 and serving as chairman of its board of governors in 2009 and 2010. In 2014, the SDSU Alumni Association awarded Jake its Distinguished Alumnus Award for outstanding service to South Dakota.

He was a member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ. Jake enjoyed golfing and was a member of Prairie Winds Golf Course. He was also a member of the Watertown Lions Club, Jaycees, WCRC and SDSU Athletics.

Jake is survived by his wife, Phyllis, of Watertown and his two sons: Kevin (Crissy) Krull of Sturgis and Tom (Carrie) Krull of Sioux Falls; four grandchildren: Kelsey of Sturgis, Leah of Sioux Falls, Jacob “Jay” of Sturgis, and Noah of Sturgis; three sisters, Darlene (Norm) Olson of Dayton, Ohio, Irene (Vince) Vitullo of Chicago, Illinois, and Mary Ann (Bill) Ricker of North Stonington, Connecticut; and one brother, Darrell (Marilyn) of Prescott, Arizona.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Jacob E. and Katherine (DeBerg) Krull.

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Bruce WilliamsLife Legacy

Rev. Bruce M. Williams, former mission developer and senior pastor of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls (1984-1999), passed away on October 25, 2016 at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota after a lengthy illness.  Visitation with the family present will be from 4 to 7 pm on Friday, October 28, 2016, at Miller Funeral Home Southside Chapel, 7400 South Minnesota Avenue. A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, October 29, 2016, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church Sanctuary with private interment at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any memorials be directed to the Williams-Engel Scholarship Fund at Augustana University, Our Savior's Lutheran Church Foundation, and/or Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota

Bruce was born on November 19, 1937 at Wakonda, SD to Esther and Marsden Williams at the end of the Great Depression. They later moved to Sioux City, Iowa and then to Watertown, SD where Bruce graduated from high school in 1956. After considering appointments to the U. S. military academies, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served in the lst Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, CA as a chaplain's assistant.  It was during this time that a calling into the ministry became a possibility for his life work.  A significant experience while serving in the Corps was the climbing of Mt. Whitney in Calif., a challenging 14,000 plus feet.

After his discharge from the military, he worked on his uncle and aunt's farm for two months and then for three months directing a summer youth program at Hayti, SD sponsored by Hayti Lutheran Church led by life-long friend, Pastor Dick Borrud. In the fall of 1958, Bruce entered Augustana College (now Augustana University) in Sioux Falls.  During his college years he worked part-time at the Crippled Children's Hospital and School, drove school/city bus for Sioux Transit, Inc, and served two years as business manager of the Augustana `Mirror' Newspaper.

On August 6, 1960, Bruce married Karel Engel at First Lutheran Church in Brookings, SD. They had met in the spring of 1959, when Karel was a sophomore, ( who had transferred from SDSU for an elementary education major), and Bruce a freshman.  Their son, Todd, was born in August, 1961 and Bruce was elected President of the Augustana student body in January, 1961. Karel initially taught with a two-year certificate and attended classes part-time until graduating with Bruce in 1962.

Upon graduation, Bruce joined the Augustana staff as an admissions counselor for the next two years, traveled throughout South Dakota and neighboring states contacting high schools, potential students and their parents. Daughter Tana was born in 1963 with some medical issues and this made fulltime work important.  But, during these years the calling into the ministry became more focused and the decision was made to enroll at Luther Theological Seminary, St. Paul, MN in the fall of 1964.

After three years of study and receiving the Master of Divinity degree, Bruce was ordained a pastor in the American Lutheran Church(ALC) on June 18, 1967 at his home congregation, Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown.

This was followed by forty-six years of parish ministry including Trinity Lutheran Church, Mason City, IA; Belleview-Bethany Lutheran Parish, Howard, SD; Trinity Lutheran Church, Vermillion, SD; and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls, SD. After a brief retirement in 1999, Bruce and Karel began a ten-year (2003-2013) journey of interim senior pastor ministry in seven congregations: Our Savior's Lutheran, Rochester, MN; Grace Lutheran, Sioux Falls; Bethany Lutheran, Batavia, IL; Ezekiel Lutheran, River Falls, WI; First Lutheran, Fargo, ND; Hope Lutheran, Sioux Falls, SD;  and Our Savior's Lutheran, Sioux Falls where he served until August, 2013.

Bruce served on several boards throughout his ministry: Board of Regents at Augustana; Alumni Council of Augustana; The Rural Learning Center, Howard, SD; Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota; The Center for Western Studies at Augustana College and Lutherans Outdoors in South Dakota, the camping ministry of the South Dakota Synod(ELCA).  Bruce and family attended family camp at Outlaw Ranch, near Custer, SD, for over forty years. In the summer of 1975 he also took a leave of absence from the parish to be the director of Atlantic Mt. Ranch, a high adventure camp for youth northwest of Custer.

In 1984, he received the Bush Foundation Fellowship Award for study toward receiving the Doctor of Ministry (D. Min.) degree from Luther Seminary; in 2004 the Faithfulness in Ministry Cross Award from Luther Seminary; and in 2006, the Alumni Achievement Award from Augustana.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 56 years, Karel of Sioux Falls; two children: Todd(Mary) of Deer Park, IL; Tana(Garin)Bogenholm of Roseville, MN; five grandchildren: Kaitlin, Taylor, Colter Williams; and Teague, Liam Bogenholm; a brother, Barry(Sheila)Williams of Sioux Falls.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

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Lewis William Raderschadt was born March 26, 1938 to Lewis J. and Ella M. (Schaaf) Raderschadt in Watertown, South Dakota. Lew attended Watertown High School. He then served for two years in the United States Army with 14 months of those served in Korea. After his honorable discharge, he graduated from a two year business course with International Correspondence School.

On August 12, 1959 Lew married Patricia A. Schonberger in Waverly, South Dakota. The couple had two children, Lori and Daniel. Lew started Lew's Fireworks, Inc. in 1959 as a part time business and managed the Elco Motel, a family business. After selling the Elco Motel in 1979, Lew expanded the fireworks business and started importing and selling nationwide.

Lew served as Mayor of the Highway 212 Development Corp in Watertown. He was a committee member of Ducks Unlimited, and was a member of the JC's for 15 years. Lew was a Director of Pheasants Forever statewide and was instrumental in starting Codington County Pro Pheasants. He was a Life member of the VFW and was a past member of the Lions and Elks Club, and was an avid bowler, hunter and fisherman.

Lew is survived by his wife, Patricia; their two children, Lori (Brian) Raderschadt-Guyton of Sacramento, CA, and Dan (Shelly) Raderschadt of Hayti, SD; four grandchildren, Derek, Summer, Raine and Boaz; two great grandchildren; two sisters, Marge Swoboda and Mary Lou (Curt) Berg of Watertown, SD; a sister-in-law, Jean Woolworth of Estelline, SD; and his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Barbara Coplan.

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Larry D. Wolff, age 77, of Watertown, SD, and Riverdale, IA, passed away on Sunday, June 12, 2016, at the hospital in Watertown. Memorial services will be held at a later date.

 Larry was born on August 12, 1938, at Faulkton, SD, to Jacob “Jake” and Katy (Stotz) Wolff. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1956.

 On July 6, 1958, Larry married Bonita “Bonnie” West in Watertown, SD. Larry furthered his education by attending and graduating from South Dakota State University, Brookings, in 1961.  He went on to receive his Master’s Degree from NE Missouri State, Kirksville, MO. Larry started his teaching career in Muscatine, IA, where he taught for six years and then on to Pleasant Valley Iowa High School where he taught for over 20 years. The couple moved to Bettendorf, IA, and started ‘Comfort Concepts’, a company that designs and constructs custom closets and storage systems. Larry was also involved in home construction and land developments in Iowa.

 He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Watertown and Asbury Methodist Church in Bettendorf. He was also a member of Rotary and a former member of DLT Development in Watertown.

 Larry is survived by his wife, Bonnie, of Watertown and Riverdale; three children: Randy (Kathy) Wolff and Nancy Riedl all of Plano, TX, and Susan Maroon (Chad Moede) of Indianola, IA; and four grandchildren: Ryan and Jenna Wolff, Brooke Maroon and McKayla Moede.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; two sisters; and one son-in-law, Steve Riedl.

 Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association or donations may be made to your local blood bank.

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Life Legacy

Corrine J. Schnackenberg, age 78, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Saturday, March 12, 2016 following a brief illness. Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2016 at the Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel in Watertown with Pastor Janet Miller officiating. Special music will be furnished by Erika Davis as soloist accompanied by Marcia Jelsma, and pre-recorded music.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 18, 2016 at the Wight & Comes Funeral Chapel in Watertown.

Interment will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown, SD.

Honorary Urn Bearers will be Jenny DeVries, Sara Schnackenberg, Traci Perman, Cody Schnackenberg, Torrie Lindner, Serena Rondell, Jesse Lindner, Dustin Lindner, Tiffany Koppman and Heath Marso.

Corrine Jane Schnackenberg was born on February 5, 1938 to Phillip and Inga (Strom) Erickson in Watertown, South Dakota. She was baptized at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown. Corrine attended McKinley grade school and while she was in the sixth grade she was selected as snow queen. In 1956 she graduated from Watertown High School.

Corrine married Charles H. Schnackenberg on February 23, 1957. The couple lived in Chamberlain, South Dakota for one year and then returned to Watertown. Corrine loved being a wife and homemaker, and being at home raising their children.

Family was important to Corrine and she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed embroidering dish towels, sewing and making doll clothes, playing Uno, Skip-Bo and doing word finds.

Corrine is survived her children, Ron (Bobbi) Schnackenberg, June (Larry) Lindner and Mitzi Marso (Mike Heyn) all of Watertown, and Tom Schnackenberg of Lawrence, KS; her sister, Beverly Landon of Watertown; one brother, Jay (Pam) Erickson of Lakewood, CO; 10 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

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Obituary for George Clayton Taecker

George Clayton Taecker, 75, of Walden, died March 2, 2013 doing what he loved best. snowmobiling.

Mr. Taecker was born July 19, 1937 in Watertown, South Dakota to Harold Arthur and Patronella Taecker.

Clayton left the farm in South Dakota at age 18 and traveled to California, where he lived from 1956 to 1972. He then lived a short time in Utah before settling in the Walden, Colorado area. He was a heavy equipment operator for Kerr Coal Mile in Walden; retiring from Local 12 and Local 9 Operating Engineers.

Clayton loved snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, and mechanicing; working on a lot of the snowmobiles in town. He was a creative thinker; loving to "Claytonize" everything.

Survivors include his son, Timothy Taecker of Walden; daughter, Christine Annette Roberts Rex of St George, Utah; brothers, Bruce Taecker, Harold Taecker, Jr., Merrill Taecker, Roger Taecker; sisters, Joan Goeman Jim, Sharon Schortzmann Elmer, Bonnie Morris, Maryanne Douville; and four grandchildren, Chad, Matthew, Andrew, Jessie Ray and five great grandchildren.

Preceding Clayton in death are his parents, Harold and Patronella; children, Stephanie Rae, Mark, Anthony "Tony"; and two grandchildren, Nicholas and Brandy Sue. A Memorial Service will be held at North Park Community Church in Walden on Saturday at 12:00 p. m.

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Life Legacy

Mary Lou (Sheehan) Shriver, age 75, of Watertown, SD passed away Sunday, May 5, 2013 at her home. 

Mary Louise Shriver was born January 4, 1938 in Fairfax, Minnesota to Richard “Dick” and Catherine “Kate” (Maurer) Sheehan.  She grew up in Watertown, South Dakota, graduating from Watertown High School in 1956.  She graduated from St. John’s School of Nursing in 1960 at Huron, South Dakota.  Mary Lou married Larry Shriver on December 30, 1961 in Watertown.  Larry served in the United States Air Force; therefore, Mary Lou worked as a registered nurse in Wisconsin, California, Oregon, Washington, South Dakota, West Germany and West Berlin.  They retired from the Air Force in 1977, and returned to Watertown where she was employed at LATI as a nursing instructor for 16 years. She then worked as a nurse for Dr. James Jones until her retirement in 1997. 

Mary Lou and Larry enjoyed retirement for 15 winters in Sun City, Arizona with a close group of special friends, who became like family.   

She enjoyed spending time watching her children and grandchildren in sports and activities with her family. She also enjoyed golfing, reading, quilting, cooking, baking and taught beading.

Mary Lou is survived by her husband, Larry of Watertown, SD; her children, Jolene (Dennis) Heller of Watertown, SD, Pat (Sharon) Shriver of Watertown, SD, Rick (Julie) Shriver of Stevenson Ranch, CA, Tom (Leslie)  Shriver of Broomfield, CO, Kevin (Brenda) Shriver of Pueblo West, CO and Katie (Jeff) Skibicki of Bismarck, ND; her brother, Mike (Patty) Sheehan of Watertown, SD; her sister-in-law, Donna (Gene) Williams of Watertown, SD; 13 grandchildren; Tyler and Ryan Heller, (Jolene), Jackson and Brayden Shriver, (Pat), Brett, Brock and Brooke Shriver (Rick), Tommy II and Garrett (Tom), Whitney Shafer and Kennedy Shriver (Kevin), Abby and Grant Skibicki (Katie); along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Chuck Sheehan.

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Barbara A. (Stoltenburg) Gonzalez June 30, 1938 ~ October 28, 2012 (age 74)

Barbara was born on June 30, 1938, at Watertown, SD, to Julius and Margaret (Schultz) Stoltenburg.  She attended school in Watertown and graduated from Watertown High School. 

 Following graduation, Barbara married John Gonzalez. She worked for Austin Law Firm, the American Heart Association and at St. Ann’s and Prairie Lakes Hospital for 18 years.  Barbara also worked for the Human Service Agency before she retired.

 She was a member of St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, St. Martin’s Ladies’ Club and was Cradle Roll Secretary.  She was also a member of the Foster Grandparent program at St. Martin’s School.  Barbara was known as the “Bag Lady” for many years with Karing Kapers.  She was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan and enjoyed sewing, reading and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.  Barbara loved being a foster grandparent and to joke and make people laugh.  She was also a piano teacher and was an accomplished pianist, playing at several local restaurants.

 Barbara is survived by her four children: Gina Gonzalez, Brookings, SD, Trini Gonzalez, Sioux Falls, SD, Angi Gonzalez, Brookings, SD, and Sara (Rick) Aman, Watertown, SD; eight grandchildren: Rachel Vosika, Marisa Gonzalez, Siera (Chris) Staab, Olivia Drake, Eleni Aman, Emily Aman, Joey Gonzalez and Micah Gonzalez; one great-grandson, Zander Staab; one brother, Robert (Kathy) Stoltenburg, Colman, SD; and one sister, Judy (Gary) Hopp, Nicollet, MN.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; her step-mother, Ruth; and one brother, James Stoltenburg.

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Carol L. ArbogastCarol L. Arbogast Oct 13 1937 - Aug 30 2011

Funeral services for Carol L. (Mrs. Darrel) Arbogast, 73, of Watertown, SD will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 2, 2011 at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Watertown. Rev. Christina Matson and Rev. Gary Westgard will officiate. Carol passed away on Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at her home, after a lengthy battle with cancer.

 

Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Watertown. Honorary pallbearers will be the Watertown Firefighters. Active pallbearers will be: Joe Makepeace, Tim Goodwin, Gene Kluck, Maynard Petersen, Blake Johnson, and Brian Stemwedel.

 

Visitation will be at Crawford Funeral Chapel in Watertown on Thursday from 4-7 and in the church on Friday prior to the services. The family is requested to meet at the church on Friday by 10:00 a.m. for a prayer service.

 

Carol was born on October 13, 1937 in Watertown, SD to Ray and Berniece (Torgeson) DeVetter. She graduated from Watertown High School. Following graduation, Carol worked at various jobs.

 

She married Darrel Arbogast at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown on May 7, 1961. Carol quit working outside the home to raise her family. She later worked as a manager at Raven’s Outlet Store, as a manager of the Watertown Mall, and then as Marketing Human Resource Director at F&M Bank all in Watertown.

 

Carol was a lifelong member of Grace Lutheran Church and was also a member of the Vintiques Car Club. She served on the Watertown City Council for eight years and on the Board of Directors of the Watertown Chamber of Commerce. Carol enjoyed helping restore Corvairs, attending car shows, baking, her flower garden, sewing, and being with her family, especially the grandchildren.

 

She is survived by her husband, Darrel, of Watertown; her children: Steve (Rhonda) Arbogast, Dan (Deb) Arbogast, and Jill (Tim) Makepeace all of Watertown, SD; four grandchildren: Amy Makepeace-Petri, Dylynn Makepeace, Blake Arbogast, and Casey Arbogast; and one sister, Joan (Gilbert) Kittelson, of Henry, SD.

 

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jim DeVetter.

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We have been able to confirm that Harold Mills passed away on March 1, 2008 in Riverside, CA

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Ted Sanders was living in Muscatine IA and passed away March 18, 1997 at age 58 of a heart attack. He worked for HON Furniture, had 4 kids and two grandchildren.

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Edward J. Jerry Morris
May 23 1936 - Jun 07 2011

Graveside services for Edward J. “Jerry” Morris, age 75, of Lake Norden, SD, formerly Watertown, SD, will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 13, 2011, in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Watertown. Rev. Stephen Lauricella will officiate. Military graveside honors will be provided by Codington County Post #17 of the American Legion, Watertown, and the US Navy Funeral Honors Team. Jerry passed away on Tuesday, June 7, 2011, at a care center in Lake Norden, SD.

 

Arrangements are being handled by Crawford Funeral Chapel of Watertown.

 

Jerry was born on May 23, 1936, in Watertown, SD, to Eugene J. and Mildred L. (Nelson) Morris. He graduated from Watertown High School and enlisted in the US Navy. Following an honorable discharge, Jerry returned to Watertown where he owned and operated a Phillips 66 Station. He then moved to Lead, SD, where he worked at Homestake Mine. He returned to Watertown and worked for Terrace Park, Land O’Lakes, and then for Coca Cola as a route driver. He also drove a school bus for awhile. He was previously married to Bonnie Taecker.

 

Jerry was a former member of the American Legion. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, camping, and bowling.

 

Jerry is survived by one son, Eric Morris, of Watertown, SD; three daughters: Rene (Cam) McElany of Colorado Springs, CO, Brenda (Todd) Bierschenk of Minneota, MN, and Linda Kranz of Watertown, SD; eleven grandchildren; one brother, Gary (Pam) Morris, of Watertown, SD; and two sisters, Bonita (Carl) Inman of San Diego, CA, and Gloria (Kenneth) Keyser of Spokane, WA.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Jerry Eugene; and one grandson, Christopher McElany.

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Donna Fjelstad
(September 15, 1938 - February 3, 2011)

Donna Fjelstad, 72 of Pierre, died on Thursday, February 3 at St. Mary's HospitalDonna Fjelstad. There will be a gathering of friends from 6-7pm on Friday, February 11 at First United Methodist Church in Pierre, followed by a prayer service at 7:00 pm at the church. A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00am, Saturday, February 12 at the church. The Fjelstad Finale will begin at 6:00pm on Saturday, February 12 at the Grand Opera House.

 

Donna Jeanne Fjelstad was born in Clark, SD on September 15, 1938, to George and Averil (Beller) Moeller. As a child she lived in Presho, Wagner and Watertown, graduating from high school in 1956. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Northern State University in 1960, and a Master’s Degree in School Administration from USD in 1975. A teacher in the Pierre Schools for 19 years, she later became an administrator in the South Dakota Department of Education and Assistant State Superintendent. Her avocation was theater where she acted and directed across the state. As co-owner of the comedy team, Oahe Transit, and RiverBridge Theater, she and her partner, Don Boyd, performed locally and throughout the upper Midwest. She was a founding member of Pierre Players where she has shared her extraordinary talents on well over 100 productions. A sought after motivational speaker and workshop leader, she also wrote and performed comedy for business, non-profit, and government groups.

 

Donna married Charles Fjelstad in 1960; they moved to Pierre where she made her home for the remainder of her life. They had three children, Linda Anne, Max Eric, and Mary Gen. Over the years, numerous other young people were welcomed into their home for brief periods of time.

 

Donna’s belief that ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’ was exemplified in service to her community and state and was the signature of her life. Her reputation as an advocate spanned a variety of issues and causes. She understood the transformative power of the arts and was committed to creating opportunities for youth and adults to develop their creativity on stage and off. She was instrumental in starting IMPROV, an alcohol and drug prevention program for adolescents, in 1985, which continues in South Dakota today. She coached and mentored many ‘Odyssey of the Mind’ teams, served on the boards of The Right Turn Career Learning Center, Capital Area Counseling Services, Capital Area Counseling Board of Trustees, Pierre Players, Short Grass Arts Council, Pierre Education Foundation, and Church of Hope Prison Ministry. In addition to her work as a Hospice volunteer, she served as trainer for other volunteers.

 

At the state level, Donna served as president of the board of the Black Hills Playhouse and South Dakotans for the Arts. She served as a Governor Appointee to the South Dakota Arts Council. In 1989 she was named Outstanding Woman Educator by the South Dakota Women in Educational Leadership. In 1991 she was honored as a Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer in the Arts. In 1999 she was named Outstanding Volunteer by the Pierre Area Charitable Organizations. In March of 2006, she received the ‘Release the Spirit Within’ award at the Arctic Winter Games in Kenai, Alaska. In June of 2006, Capital Area Counseling Services awarded her its ‘Visionary Award’ for her service to that agency. In 2009 she was honored with the ‘Outstanding Support of the Arts by an Individual’ by Governor Michael Rounds at the state Governor’s Arts Awards. She was also recognized by the Pierre Chamber of Commerce with the annual Pierre Pride award that same year. In 2010 she ran as a Democratic candidate for District 24 in the South Dakota state senate race with a fitting slogan ‘Fjelstad… only the J is silent’.

 

Donna rejoiced in the diversity of her many friends, She encouraged us to believe in ourselves, develop our talents (whatever they might be), and to ‘get on with it’. She left a lasting impression on all the lives she touched.

 

Donna considered her family her finest production. She is survived by her children Linda Schumacher (Kent) Pierre, SD, Max Fjelstad (Kate) Ninilchik, AK, and Mary (Kato) Buss, Eugene, OR; the lights of her life- grandchildren Jackson Schumacher, Samuel Fjelstad, Olivia Buss and Charlotte Fjelstad; sisters Kathleen Currey, Pierre, SD, and Janet (Doug) Stam, Blaine, MN; nieces Sara (Terry) Kumpf, Pierre, SD, and Suzanne Easthouse, Britton, SD; great nephew and nieces, Evan, Miranda and Claire. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, her dear Aunt Gen, and her husband and lifelong friend Charles Fjelstad.

 

A memorial fund has been established at BankWest in Donna’s name.

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Joyce M. Evjen, age 72, of Lake Mills, died Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011, in Lake Mills.

 

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p. m. Tuesday, Jan. 25, at Salem Lutheran Church, Lake Mills, with Pastor David E. Jordon officiating. Graveside services will be held in July at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Troy, S. D.

 

Mittelstadt Funeral Home, Lake Mills, is in charge of the arrangements.  You can contact the family with online condolences at: www.mittelstadtfuneralhome.com .

 

The family requests that memorials and donations be directed to the Lake Mills Senior Citizens Club in Joyce Evjen's name.

 

Joyce Marie (Nelson) Evjen was born on Feb. 16, 1938, in Summit, S. D., to parents Clarence and Etta (Adolphsen) Nelson. She was baptized at Our Savior's Evangelical Lutheran Church, South Shore, S. D., and was confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church, Watertown, S. D. She grew up in the Watertown area and graduated from Watertown High School in 1956.

 

On Aug. 4, 1956, Joyce was united in marriage to John Evjen. The couple moved to Lake Mills where Joyce found work at Monk's Grill when it first opened. In 1958, she began working at Deluxe Products (Fleetguard/Cummins) and spent 37 years as a loyal employee. Joyce stayed active at Salem Lutheran Church with the Altar Guild and her circle's work. She especially enjoyed preparing the baby layettes, the school kits and the health kits.

 

Family vacations took them back to South Dakota often where she enjoyed visiting as many family members, friends, and classmates as she could in the time allowed. Reading, antiquing, and flower pot gardening were her hobbies. She also spent many years on bowling leagues with friends and was an avid fan of the Twins and the Vikings.

 

After her retirement, she was happy to travel more to see friends and family. Time each winter was spent in Texas and California to see her children, grandchildren, and long-distance family and friends. They made many new friends at their adopted church, Grace Lutheran, in Mathis, Texas. In Lake Mills, she enjoyed meeting friends at the monthly Fleetguard retirement breakfasts as well as the weekday Congregate Meals at the Senior Center. She also loved her weekly breakfast with the girls and visiting with friends over coffee, treats, and maybe a game of dice or cards.

 

When they joined the Lake Mills Senior Citizens Club, she became an active board member serving as secretary, vice president, president, and trustee over the years. She had high hopes that the club would pick up new members and that the club would thrive in the future.

 

She will be missed by her family including her husband of 54 years, John, daughter, Janice (Tom) Ramthun, Lake Mills, and son, Jim (Rose) Evjen, Portland, Texas; four grandchildren, Matthew Ramthun, Lake Mills, Jennifer Ramthun, Ames, Taniesha Evjen and Dakota Evjen, Portland, Texas; sisters, Delores Roberts, Watertown, S. D., Donna Miller, Watertown, S. D., and Barbara (Dennis) Meseberg, Ontario, Canada; brother, Jerry (Deb) Nelson, Lawrence, Kan.; sisters-in-law, Vivian Larson, Watertown, S. D., Joyce Evjen, Strandburg, S. D., and Dorothy Barck, Marshall, Minn.; brother-in-law: Raynard (Marilyn) Evjen, Stockholm, S. D.; two aunts, Blanche Hoepner, Atwater, Minn. and Naomi Klucas, Watertown, S. D.; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and their families.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents; six sisters-in law and nine brothers-in-law; many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews.

 

Mittelstadt Funeral Home, 902 E. Main, Lake Mills, 641-592-0221. 

 

 

Harold Edward Sutherland

Oct. 3, 1937 - Aug. 13, 2010

If anyone asked Hal what his motto in life was he would answer "Prior Planning Prevents Project Failure!"

Harold Edward Sutherland, 71, of North Bend, was born Oct. 3, 1937, in Watertown, S.D., to Bernice and Clarence Sutherland. He died Aug. 13, 2010, in North Bend at home.

He graduated from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 1961 and from 1963 to 1965 studied and completed advanced engineering and management courses at UCLA. Hal's career spanned 40 years in the aerospace industry including both military and commercial aircraft, missiles, spacecraft and security systems. Over the years he worked for companies such as The Martin Company, Atlantic Research Corporation, Aerospace Telemetry, Teledyne Controls, Hamilton Standard, Lockheed Corporation and Allied Signal.

Hal is survived by his three children, Marjorie Nunan Hendricks, Elizabeth Scofield Sutherland and Harold Edward Sutherland Jr.

Arrangements are under the direction of North Bend Chapel, 541-756-0440.

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Sally J Person

Sally J. Person, age 72, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Friday, July 30, 2010 at a Clark, SD care center. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 4, 2010 at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel with Pastor Donna Nickels of the First Presbyterian Church in Raymond, SD officiating. Kathy Alwin will be the soloist accompanied by Dorothy Brugman. Interment will be on Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Sioux Falls, SD. Visitation will be on Tuesday, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel, and on Wednesday prior to the services.

Pallbearers will be Mike J. Laurenz, Burhan Tahtamouni, Michael W. Laurenz, Eric Fox, Thomas Jostad and Logan Tahtamouni.

Sally was born on March 23, 1938 to Cliff E. and Alice M. (Miller) Kittelson at Brookings, South Dakota. She grew up in Sioux Falls where she attended school and then attended her senior year at Watertown High School. She graduated with honors at the top 10 percent of her class.

In 1959 she married Anthony Person in the Immaculate Conception Church in Watertown, SD. The couple lived in Watertown and Sally worked as a legal secretary. She also worked as a cosmetic consultant at Osco Drug and did bookkeeping at Spurgeon's. She was later employed as an invoice clerk at Walmart. Sally semi retired at the age of 62, and then fully retired at the age of 65. She enjoyed spending time with her family, doing crossword puzzles, and enjoyed going to rummage sales and thrift stores.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Sally is survived by her daughters, Laurie (Mike) Laurenz of Watertown, and Lisa (Burhan) Tahtamouni of Prairieville, LA; three grandchildren, Michael Laurenz, Kristin Person and Logan Tahtamouni; and her great grandson, Aiden Fox.

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Obituary Phyllis W. (Mrs. Chuck) Schamens

 Phyllis W. (Mrs. Chuck) Schamens, age 71, of Watertown, South Dakota, passed away Saturday, September 19, 2009 in Watertown. Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 24, at 10:30 a. m. at St. Martin's Lutheran Church in Watertown, with Pastor John Carter officiating. Sharon Renner was the soloist accompanied by Karen Livingston. Interment in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown, SD. Visitation was held on Wednesday from 4:00 - 8:00 p. m., at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel in Watertown.

 Honorary Groups were the Marine Corp League, Marine Corp League Auxiliary and the Golden Age Club.

 Active Pallbearers were her nephews: Kevin Lauseng, Dick Frederick, Marty Howey, Randy Howey, Vic Raastad, Wayne Palo, Gary Howey and Mark Howey.

 Phyllis W. Schamens, the daughter of Calvin and Julia (Adolph) Howey, was born on April 18, 1938 in Watertown, South Dakota. She grew up in Watertown, where she attended school and graduated from Watertown High School in 1956.

 She married Charles "Chuck" Schamens on July 20, 1958 at St. Martin's Lutheran Church in Watertown. Phyllis was employed in Watertown as a secretary for Gray Construction, Robel Architect, Redlinger's Plumbing, and Gribben, Burns & Eide Attorneys. She was a state employee in Pierre for 12 years as a secretary in the State Engineers office and State Fleet and Travel department.

 She was a member of St. Martin's Lutheran Church and taught Sunday School for many years. Phyllis was also a member of Legal Secretary-FOP Auxiliary, PTA and BPW.

 She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, reading, traveling and was very involved with genealogy and helping others with their genealogy.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Calvin "Coney", William "John", Walter, Morton "Mort", and Robert "Bob" Howey; and her sister, Margaret "Hon" Lauseng.

 Phyllis is survived by her husband, Chuck; her children, Scott (Janet) Schamens and Brent (Pam) Schamens of Watertown, Peggy (Ken) Morse of South St. Paul, MN, and Kirk (Trudy) Schamens of Watertown; her siblings, Ruby Palo of Hayti, Rosella "Zella" (Willard) Rogge of Huron, Joyce (Arnell) Raastad of Watertown, and Bonnie (Merlin) Roso of Watertown; and her 11 grandchildren.

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LaDonna Whalen 

RAPID CITY - LaDonna Whalen, 71, Rapid City, died Sunday, July 5, 2009, at her home. 

Survivors include two sons, Terry Owen, Paradise, Calif., and Damon Bishop, Redding, Calif.; one daughter, Joni Swanke, Bowman, N. D.; two sisters, Shirley Sears, Broomfield, Colo., and Patricia Stoltenburg, Rapid City; and one brother, Frank Cox, Paradise, Calif. 

As per her wishes, she will be cremated, and no services will be held.

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Barbara E. (Mrs. Donald) Rex, age 71, of Watertown, South Dakota, passed away Tuesday, September 30, 2008 at Prairie Lakes Hospital in Watertown. Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a. m. on Friday, October 3, 2008 at the Immaculate Conception Church in Watertown. Father Joe Forcelle will be the celebrant with Leanne Giessinger as organist and the Immaculate Conception Funeral Choir.

 

Interment will be at St. Mary's Cemetery in Watertown. Visitation will be Thursday from 4-8:00 p. m. with a 7:00 p. m. scripture service at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel in Watertown.

 

Honorary Casketbearers will be members of the American Legion Auxiliary, members of the VFW Auxiliary, Sue Riley and Margaret Byer. Active Casketbearers will be members of the American Legion.

 

 Barbara Elizabeth Rex was born on August 31, 1937 to Olaf and Susie (Falk) Erickson in Watertown, South Dakota. Barb grew up in Watertown and graduated from Watertown High School in 1956 and then graduated from Nursing School in Mitchell, South Dakota in 1960. She was united in marriage with Donald Rex on June 6, 1972 at the Immaculate Conception Church in Watertown. Barb was employed at St. Ann's Hospital and Prairie Lakes Hospital as an LPN for a total of 32 years.

 

Barb enjoyed spending time with her family and cooking and baking.

 

She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Barb was a very active member in the VFW and American Legion Auxiliaries and was president for six years of the American Legion Auxiliary.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Ralph Erickson.

 

She is survived by her husband, Don; her sister-in-law, Ruth Erickson; her niece Mary Erickson of Watertown; her nephew, Philip Erickson of Watertown; her adopted son, Brian Herron of Picher, OK; and her adopted grandson, Donald Herron of Watertown.

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Beverly (Moquist) Skinner

(October 31, 1937 - December 19, 2008)

On Friday, December 19, 2008, BEVERLY SKINNER, 71, of Belair, beloved wife of the late Charles Skinner, devoted mother of Alan Skinner, Steven Skinner, Kevin Skinner and his wife Jamie and Dawn Rathgeber and her husband Steven, loving grandmother of Caitlin, Brittany and Kelsey Skinner, Amber Mentz, Kasey and Stephanie Rathgeber and Lauren Skinner, great-grandmother of Carsyn Mentz. Also survived by her siblings Norma Sutherland and Paul Moquist.

 

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, December 22, at St. Matthews Lutheran Church, 1200 Churchville Rd in Belair, MD 21014 beginning at 11:30 with a reviewing of friends the half prior. In addition to flowers, donations may be made in Beverly's name to St. Matthews Lutheran Church.

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Janet Hammrich

Published: Monday, June 16, 2008 12:00 PM CDT

Janet Marie Hammrich, 69, Ash Flat, Ark., formerly of Watertown, died Wednesday, June 11, 2008, in a medical center at Batesville, Ark.

 

Graveside services will be Friday, at 2 p.m. in the Mount Hope Cemetery at Watertown.

 

Tri-County Funeral Home of Highland, Ark., is in charge of arrangements.

 

She was born Oct. 24, 1938, in Morristown, N.J., the daughter of Glenn and Arletta Hindman. She graduated from Watertown High School in 1956 and received a degree in registered nursing from Presentation College of Nursing in 1959.

She married Walt Hammrich Oct. 22, 1960. She worked as a registered nurse at Memorial Hospital and Jenkins Care Center, along with being a homemaker.

 

She enjoyed spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren, reading and her cat, Rusty.

 

Survivors include her husband, Walt of Ash Flat; two daughters, Jodi Hammrich and Lori (Dave) Hauge, all of Watertown; one sister, Lisa (Mike) McElmurry of Joplin, Mo.; and three grandchildren.

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(Mrs. Kenny) Mary L. Drake

 (Mrs. Ken) Mary L. Drake, age 70, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Sunday, April 20, 2008 at a local care center. Memorial services were held on Friday, April 25, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church with Father James Bream officiating. Music was furnished by the Immaculate Conception Church Choir accompanied by Jane Rokusek. Visitation was held on Thursday from 4:00-8:00 p.m. with a scripture service at 7:00 p.m. at the Wight, Comes & Sogn Funeral Chapel.

 Mary Larson Drake  WHS Class of 1956

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be designated to the Prairie Lakes Hospice, PO Box 1210, Watertown, SD. Please earmark the memorial for "syringe drivers."

 

 Mary Louise Drake, the daughter of Lewis and Theresa (Risch) Larson was born on November 29, 1937 in Watertown, South Dakota. Mary married Kenneth John Drake March 3, 1961 and lived her entire life in Watertown. Mary owned and operated the Drake Motor Inn from 1961-1985 with her husband, Ken. In 1988, Mary went into real estate part-time and worked at Benet Place full time from 1988-1990.

 

 In 1990, Mary and Ken purchased Lakeshore Supper Club and operated it until 2005. Mary was also a full-time realtor from 1990-2007 for ReMax and Coldwell Banker Real Estate. Over the years, Mary has been an active member of the Immaculate Conception Church, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the women's sodality. She served on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, was a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, and for several years she was an active member of the Beta Delta sorority.

 

 In her free time, Mary enjoyed golfing, bowling, sewing and knitting. She was a talented baker and loved sharing her holiday treats. She enjoyed traveling to the east and west coast to spend time with her grandchildren.

 

 She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Lewis and Stephen of Watertown; and one sister, Joyce Larson Ellis of Watertown.

 

 Mary is survived by her husband, Ken; her daughter, Katherine Drake Mills and her husband, Steven of Annandale, VA; and her son, J. Michael Drake and his wife, Kristine of Gig Harbor, WA; two grandchildren, Sydney Mills and Andrew Drake; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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Margery Whitten

NAPLES, Fla. — Margery (Smith) Whitten, 70, Naples, died Friday, Feb. 8 2008.

Memorial services were Feb.11.

Naples Memorial Gardens was in charge of arrangements.

She graduated from Watertown (S.D.) High School and lived in Florida for the past 30 years.

Survivors include her mother, Margaret Smith of Watertown; one sister, Judy Hartwig of Watertown; and her children, Keith Christiansen, Mike

Christiansen, Karen (Christiansen) Mareken, all of Naples and Jackie Blackburn of Massachusetts; and several grandchildren.

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Wayne Konrady
September 8, 1938~October 28, 2006

 

Ten months and four days after losing his wife, Wanona, to cancer (and being her caregiver for many months) Wayne Konrady also lost his battle with cancer.

 

Wayne was born to Earnest and Mary Konrady in Iowa on September 8, 1938. His family moved to South Dakota when he was young and raised cattle and grain He moved with his two sons to Medford in 1970 and worked for Medco Corporation and then Boise Cascade for many years, retiring from there.

 

On March 22 1975, he married Wanona Mesloh. They were married for 30 years and enjoyed estate sales and raising their miniature horses. Wayne also collected Terry Redlin paintings and other Redlin collectables. He went to school In South Dakota with the artist and had fond memories of their school days together.

 

He has two sons, Tim who lives in White City and Terry that resides in Tenino, Wash. two step-daughters, Vicki Shirley from Merlin Ore. and Cory (Mesloh) Hamann of Butte Falls; a granddaughter, Erin, that lives in Tenino with her dad, Terry and numerous step-grandchildren scattered about. Wayne was from a large family with many siblings. He had two brothers and six sisters.  All of his brothers and sisters made it a priority to come and visit him over the past 10 months after Wanona’s death. He was hardly alone this past year, surrounded by people that loved him.

 

Wayne was a good man. He was from the old school where you didn’t always show your emotions, so it was a nice thing to have him call his family up this past year just to see how you were doing and to say, “I love you."

 

There will be a small family gathering later this week where Wayne’s ashes will be scattered with Winnie’s in their flower beds that they worked on together.

 

‘But the good man walks along in the ever brightening light of God’s Favor; the dawn gives way to morning splendor. "Proverbs 4:18

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Donald Ellison

Donald Ellison of Sioux Falls, died Friday, October 7, 2005 at Sioux Valley Hospital.


Don was born December 23, 1938 in Sioux Falls, SD the son of Immert and Opal (Carpenter) Ellison. He grew up in Sioux Falls and moved to Watertown where he graduated from Watertown High School. He attended the University of South Dakota where he participated in ROTC and graduated with a degree in Business Administration. He entered the Army as a Second Lieutenant.
He married Joanne Mack in Kranzburg, SD on December 30, 1961. He worked as a salesman in Millard, NE. for seven years before moving to Sioux Falls in 1975. He was an insurance agent here in Sioux Falls. He was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. He enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his grandchildren.


He is survived by his wife; Joanne; his mother-in-law, Calverna “Kelly” Mack of Sioux Falls; two sons, Jeff and his wife Christie and granddaughter Megan, Springfield, MO, Brett, San Antonio, TX; two daughters, Pam and her husband Dale Beyer and granddaughters Lily and Amelia, Plover, WI, Anne and her husband, Scott Grasmick and granddaughter Lauren, Omaha, NE; and one brother, Richard of Texas.

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Douglas Stricherz
Wednesday, April 14, 2004 10:56 AM CDT

Douglas Joseph Stricherz, 65, 318 8th St. S.E., died Monday, April 12, 2004, in a local hospital.

Funeral services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. in the Immaculate Conception Church with the Rev. James Bream officiating. Music will be provided by the Immaculate Conception Church Choir.

Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery at Watertown. Pallbearers will be Jason and Ben Devine, Paul and Pat Breen and Todd and Scott Jacobson.

Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 4 to 8 p.m. with a Scripture service at 6:30 p.m. in the Wight and Comes Funeral Chapel and Thursday prior to the services at the church.

 

Douglas Joseph Stricherz, the son of Joseph B. and Louise (Fox) Stricherz was born April 24, 1938, in Watertown. He attended Immaculate Conception School and graduated from Watertown High School in 1956.

He married Marlys Dahl Sept. 21, 1957, in Watertown. He began his employment for the Municipal Utilities in 1958. He retired in 1997 as the gas department foreman.

He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church, Catholic Order of Foresters and Watertown Elks Lodge.

He enjoyed camping and collecting Franklin Mint Cars. He also played guitar in several bands in Watertown, including the Gents and the Squires.

Survivors include his wife, Marlys Stricherz of Watertown; three sons, Jay M. (Patty) Stricherz of Volga, Craig D. (Melissa) Stricherz of Omaha, Neb., and Chad (Kimberly) Stricherz of Watertown; three sisters, SuzAnn Breen of Hillsboro, N.D., Phyllis (David) Jacobson of Watertown and Marcella "Sally" (Gary) Gramm of Brookings; and six grandchildren.

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Lawrence Strohfus

Lawrence J. "Larry" Strohfus, 67, of Watertown, died Tuesday, May 10, 2005, at a local hospital.

Funeral services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church with the Rev. James Bream officiating. Music will be furnished by the Immaculate Conception Church choir.

Interment will be in the St. Mary's Cemetery, Watertown. Military honors will be conducted by the Codington County Post 17 of the American Legion and Frank H. Adams Post 750 of the VFW.

Visitation will be Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. with a scripture service at 7:30 p.m. at the Wight, Comes and Sogn Funeral Chapel. Visitation will continue on Saturday prior to services at the church.

 

Honorary Pallbearers will be his grandchildren Active pallbearers will be Michael and James Price, Richard Strohfus, Jr., David Kell, Richard Stroup, Aaron Althoff and Chris Lee.

Lawrence J. Strohfus, the son of Leo and Laura (Redmond) Strohfus, was born Dec. 18, 1937 at Watertown. He attended school through the ninth grade at Immaculate Conception School. He attended three years of Seminary at St. Minrards in Indiana. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on May 26, 1957 and earned several awards including, National Defense Medal, five Good Conduct Medals, Army Commendation Medal, Sharp Shooter Badge M-16, and First Class Misseleman Badge. On March 25, 1965 he married Mary Ellen Bray at Boise, Idaho. After serving in the military for 21 years, he was discharged on Aug. 31, 1978. The couple made their home in Watertown where he was employed by Mill Amusement, Midwest Security and then at Minnesota Rubber until he retired in 1998. Mrs. Strohfus died on October 27, 1991.

 

He was an active member of the Immaculate Conception Church where he was Chairman of Altar Boys and St. Jude's Circle, read scripture at masses, an instructor for CCD, sang in the St. Francis Choir, was a member of Cursillo and served communion to shut-ins. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus, Serra Club, a Lifetime member of the VFW, a Past Commander of the American Legion, placing flags in Avenue of Flags, and was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels.

He was preceded in death by his wife and one son, Billy Strohfus.

He is survived by four sons, Douglas Strohfus of Colorado, Joseph Strohfus of Watertown, Paul Strohfus of Sioux Falls, and Mark (Marty) Strohfus of Bentonville, Ark.; one daughter, Lorie (Terry) Beynon of Watertown; his stepfather, Jerry Blais of Watertown; two sisters, Shirley (Bob) Kell of St. Louis Park, Minn., and Pauline (Ernie) Pederson of Watertown; and 11 grandchildren.

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Jim Pickering

James "Jim" J. Pickering, age 77, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2015, at a local care center in Watertown. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a. m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown. Rev. Janet Miller will officiate. Music will be provided by Marcia Jelsma as organist accompanied by Judy Everson as soloist. The family is requested to meet at the church on Wednesday by 10:00 a. m. for a prayer service.

Visitation will be at the Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p. m. and in the church on Wednesday prior to services.

Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown. Military graveside honors will be conducted by Codington County Post #17 of the American Legion of Watertown, and the Military Funeral Honors Team SD Army National Guard. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim's Grandchildren: Haley, Emma, and Pete Roe; and all of Jim's coffee friends. Active pallbearers will be Ryan Gasper, Dean Roe, Ben Roe, Chad Stricherz, Dan Kannas, Kelly Kannas, and Denny Lindner.

Jim was born on November 12, 1937, in Watertown, SD, to John and Eldora (Anderson) Pickering. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1956. He joined the United States Army in 1961 and served during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1964.

On August 3, 1968, Jim married Carol Saboe at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown. He worked at Frontier Motors in Watertown. Jim then worked as a custodian for the Watertown School District for 20 years until retiring in 2000.

He was a lifetime member of Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown. He enjoyed working in the yard, doing crossword puzzles, camping, playing cards, having coffee with his friends, and sitting outdoors and waving at passerby's. He enjoyed time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife, Carol, of Watertown; one daughter, Julie (Jeff) Roe of Watertown; three grandchildren: Haley, Emma, and Pete Roe all of Watertown; one niece, RaeJean Gasper of Sioux Falls, SD; and one sister-in-law, Rose Mary Pickering of Redmond, OR.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Kenneth Pickering; two sisters, Evelyn Pickering, and Betty Jean Gasper; two nephews: Larry and Roger Gasper; and one brother-in-law, Cecil Gasper.

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Murphy, Garold M. "Jerry"
Murphy-JerryAge 77 of Inver Grove Heights

Called home peacefully on November 2, 2015.

Preceded in death by daughter, Laurie & his parents. Survived by loving wife of 57 years, Marylin; daughter, Tamra (Dan) Gibson; son, Marlin (Lynn); 8 grandchildren; sisters, Sherran (Ron) Carlson & Arlys Littell; sister-in-law, Marion (Gene) Johnson; brother-in-law, Bob (Jan) Reihe; also many, many friends. Jerry was the General Manager at Somerset Country Club and a part-time police office in Mendota Heights for over 40 years. He was a loving husband, father, grandpa, brother and will be dearly missed. Funeral service 11 AM Friday, November 6th at Inver Hills Church, 8265 Babcock Trail, Inver Grove Heights. Visitation 4-8 PM Thursday at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave. IGH. Also 1 hour prior to the service at church. Interment Acacia Park Cemetery. Memorials preferred to Gateway Christian Church.

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Joseph K Hemmer, age 79, of Weslaco, TX, formerly of Watertown, SD, passed away (following a fall) on Monday, February 1, 2016 at Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen, TX. He is the brother of Linda (James) Schurmann of Watertown, JoAnn Vaughn of Maryville TN and Jack and Gene Hemmer of TX.
Services and burial will be scheduled later this summer. Joe was the son of Joseph A. and Carolyn L. (Habermehl) Hemmer.  He was born in Wilmot SD on January 11, 1937.

Joe spent most of his early years in Sisseton, moving to Watertown during high school.  He was an outstanding athlete in both football and track as a proud Watertown Arrow.  Friendships formed in high school remained strong throughout his life. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1956.   Following high school, Joe moved to the Minneapolis area and had a variety of jobs in construction.  Joe was drafted into the Army, spending much of his tour in Germany.   Joe returned to Minneapolis and became an insurance agent in the early 1960’s.  He partnered with a friend and together the two formed an agency specializing in Medicare supplemental insurance until Joe’s retirement 30 years later. Following retirement, Joe split his time between Lake Kampeska in Watertown and Weslaco.  He moved to Weslaco permanently in 2005.

Joe’s favorite activities were hunting and fishing. He started at a very early age with his grandfather, George Habermehl.   Joe’s good friends from high school and his brother Gene were often his companions on these hunting and fishing ventures, which always seemed to result in legendary stories told over and over again through the years.  Joe also had a passion for golf and, like many golfers, could complain at length over missed or errant shots.  His friends in Weslaco were his best golfing companions.  Joe was a lucky man, blessed with wonderful friendships.

Joe never married or had children, but enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews and their children.  Joe was a supportive and kind uncle; he shared his love of hunting and fishing and golf, played cards, did card tricks, let them drive his boat, told jokes and stories, and was a patient “customer”