This page is dedicated to honoring the memories of our classmates who have passed away.

If you would like to submit a memorial listing, CLICK HERE.

Memorials - Class of 1983

Blake Buchheim

Birth Date: 1965-04-29
Deceased Date: 2000-11-04
Obituary:

Blake Buchheim, 35, died Nov. 4, 2000, from injuries received in an auto accident near Iroquois.

 

He was born April 29, 1965, in Pierre. He moved with his family to Sioux Falls, where he attended school, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1983.

 

He worked at United Parcel Service and Nash Finch while attending the University of South Dakota.

He married Virginia Gebhart on September 19, 1998.

 
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Pam Kneip (Biegler)

Birth Date: 1964-12-08
Deceased Date: 2014-10-17
Obituary:
Pam Kneip, beautiful daughter of Paul Biegler and Diana Lee, was born Dec 8, 1964 in Lincoln NE.

As a child, Pam's family moved many times before settling in Sioux Falls, SD where she graduated from Lincoln High School in 1983. Pam met Greg shortly thereafter while sitting next to him in a Mass Communication Law class at SDSU. As the story goes, Greg got her attention jumping out of a "Hobo Day parade bummobile" in front of Pam's apartment (one they now own). After dating several years, Pam followed Greg to California and then Nashville where they both honed their sales skills. Pam and Greg were married June 2, 1990.

Upon returning to Sioux Falls, Pam completed her BS degree in Journalism and Photography at the University of Sioux Falls while Greg pursued Real Estate. Pam later joined Software Unlimited, Inc. working 10 wonderful years alongside her Mother. Other careers included pharmaceutical sales, graphic design work, insurance sales and of course her current occupation the last 12 years in real estate coming full circle once again sitting in a chair next to Greg. It goes without saying, Pam performed every role in her career with confidence, professionalism, and perfection. She was loved by all customers and always took the extra steps. Of all the occupations in Pam's life however, being a mother was her most beloved and cherished.

Being a mother was the ultimate joy of her life. Pam was a fabulous mother and Abbie was her love and devotion. Her home was open to all Abbie's friends and many considered her a second mom. As well, she was a devoted and beloved Aunt. With every family event, from weddings to holidays to ballgames, she left her artistic and generous mark.

Creativity was Pam's gift. Her intelligent and infectious smile rippled through her core. Everything she did was done with beauty - how could it not, Pam's entire being was sheer beauty! Pam loved people. She loved entertaining and had the biggest heart and would do anything for anyone. It was easy for Pam to make those around her feel comfortable and included. She was always ready with a compliment and a smile.

She especially loved family times at Lake Poinsett - all seasons of fun included sunsets, a bonfire and a glass of wine. The family is deeply saddened by the loss of Pam. She was an outstanding wife and mother.

Her ongoing struggle to survive was very private. Pam was diagnosed with nonischemic idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy with severe congestive heart failure in June 2010. A virus had attacked her heart and at the time of her diagnosis her heart was operating at just 25% of normal function. The life expectancy of her heart in 2010 was 5 years. During the last 4 and ½ years, her medications caused severe side effects which she managed quietly but could not overcome.

She was a fearless champion for the American Heart Association and her passion and energy was a gift to other volunteers and survivors of heart disease. In 2014, Pam was the #2 fundraiser and #2 Team for the Eastern South Dakota Heart Walk.

Ever grateful for having shared her life is her husband, Greg Kneip; daughter Abigail LeeAnna Kneip; mother, Diana Lee; her mother's special friend, Al Tieszen; father, Paul Biegler (Judy); step-father Dick Costain; mother-in-law, Betty Kneip; brother, Erik Biegler (Jill); step sibling, Mike Goodell; brothers-in-law, Charles Kneip (Judy) and David Kneip (Sara); sisters-in-law, Deborah McDermott (Kevin) and Carol Kneip; 4 nephews; 9 nieces; and many cousins and friends. Pam was preceded in death by, stepfather, Duke Goodell; father-in-law, Jim Kneip; brother-in-law, Stephen Kneip.
 
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Paul Bontje

Birth Date: 1965-07-12
Deceased Date: 2009-10-31
Obituary:
Paul Gerard Bontje, 44, of Las Vegas, Nev., passed away Oct. 31, 2009. He was a pre-press technician at the Las Vegas Review-Journal for eight years.

Paul was born July 12, 1965, in Sioux Falls, S.D. He also lived in Larchwood, Iowa, and Winona, Minn., before returning to Sioux Falls where he graduated in 1983 from Lincoln High School. Paul went on to receive his Associate's Degree in advertising design from Southeast Technical Institute in 1991. His education launched his career in newspaper production.

In 1992 he met Darcie Lynette Wiegert and the couple moved to Honolulu, Hawaii. They married in 1994 and later lived in Colorado Springs, Colo., before moving to Las Vegas in 2001.

Paul was an avid motorcyclist and hiker, who logged thousands of miles by wheel and by foot in the U.S. and Europe. Family and friends will miss his dry wit and quiet demeanor. He was Darcie's constant companion and best friend. Their life together was enriched by many shared experiences, the highlight of which was the birth of their son, Nicholas.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Theresa Bontje. In addition to his wife and 2-month-old son, he is survived by brothers Alex, Andrew, Bryan (Lisa) and Kevin (Jane); sisters Lorraine (Sylvester) Williams, Susan (Wayne) Palmer, and Sharon (Jeff) Downing; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at George Boom Funeral Home, 3408 E. 10th Street, followed by a wake at 7 p.m. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 3601 E. Dudley Lane, followed by burial at Woodlawn Cemetery.
 
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Dean Bahnson

Birth Date: 1965-05-10
Deceased Date: 2021-09-27
Obituary:
Dean T. Bahnson, 56, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, September 27, 2021 from long term health complications. His family will greet friends from 5-7 PM Friday October 1, 2021 at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory, Sioux Falls.

Dean Timothy Bahnson, son of Monte Kay and Alice Johanna (Styke) Bahnson, was born May 10, 1965 in Sioux Falls, SD where he grew up and graduated from high school. While in high school he worked at the Short Stop and following graduation he worked for Old Home Bakery until the bakery closed.

Dean suffered a few health issues that were difficult for him. However, he lived a fun filled life and experienced each day to the fullest. Back “in the day” he truly enjoyed sprint car racing with longtime friend Chad Mellenberndt. Years later Dean had fun ice racing at Lake Brandt and syrup racing at the Sioux Falls Arena. Boating and camping at Lake Brandt was a favorite pastime as well as helping his friend Jeff Swartz at Jeff’s cabin. Dean also spent time helping his buddy DeanRBob on the farm. From knee boarding to snowmobiling to whatever, Dean was pretty much game for anything.

Dean married Deb Tanksley and they enjoyed a good life together. Dean and his Cocker Spaniel, Fonzy, were with Deb in her final days as she struggled with cancer.

Survivors include his mother, Alice J. Bahnson, Sioux Falls, SD; siblings, Sandy Kumba, Rock Rapids, IA, Jodie Schiele, Sioux Falls, SD, Michael (Sheila) Bahnson, Sioux Falls, SD, Amy (Mike) Kokenge, Tea, SD; and his Cocker Spaniel, Fonzy.

Dean was preceded in death by his dad, Monte on September 11, 2018; two brothers-in-law, Joe Kumba and Dean Scheile; and his grandparents, Marvin and Arvilla Bahnson and Johannas and Pearl Styke.
 
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Steve Adams

Birth Date: Unknown
Deceased Date: 2013-06-14
Obituary:
Steven Merrill Adams, 48, Omaha (formerly of Sioux Falls), died Jun 14. Services: 10:00 a.m., Jun 19 at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 S. 42nd St., Bellevue, NE. Bethany Funeral Home, 8201 Harrison St., La Vista, NE
 
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David Baker

Birth Date: 1965-05-21
Deceased Date: 2015-06-27
Obituary:
David C. Baker was born in Sioux Falls, SD, on May 21, 1965. His journey ended with hospice care in his home on June 27, 2015.

David Charles Baker was one of seven children born to Richard and Roberta (Kolb) Baker. He was a 1983 graduate of Lincoln High School, and a lifelong resident of Sioux Falls. David made a living in the construction trades and spent his weekends hunting and fishing in the fields and lakes of South Dakota. On July 13, 1984, he married Dawn Peterka and together they had two sons. Josh and Jason shared their father's passion for the outdoors and followed him into the construction business.

During the last 15 years, David was actively involved in the local recovery community.

He is preceded in death by his mother.

Left to mourn his passing are his sons, Josh (Jamie) Baker and Jason (Kelly) Baker; grandchildren, Avery, Brooke, and Caden; his father, Richard (Carol) Baker; sisters, Jean (Bob) Hunt of Ainsworth, NE, Laura (Jeff) Keenan of Stratford, IA, Carolyn Russell of Sioux Falls; and brothers, Bill, Steven, and Brian Baker, all of Sioux Falls, along with nieces, nephews, and a special friend, Pam.
 
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Kim Heppenstall

Birth Date: 1964
Deceased Date: 2001
Obituary:
Information unavailable.
 
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Laurence Puterbaugh

Birth Date: 1965-09-01
Deceased Date: 2012-9-27
Obituary:
Laurence C. Puterbaugh, 47, died Thursday, September 27, 2012 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. His funeral service will be 2:00 PM Monday, Oct. 1 at George Boom Funeral Home, Sioux Falls, with interment at Hills of Rest Memorial Park. Visitation begins at 4:00 PM Sunday, Sept. 30 at the funeral home, where the family will greet friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
 
Laurence C. Puterbaugh was born on September 1st, 1965 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Gerald "Pete" and Lois (Ellis) Puterbaugh. He grew up in Sioux Falls and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1983. Laurence started working at D & W Industries at a young age and continued working with them until June 2008. He built and repaired grain elevators and feed mills. He enjoyed the work that he did with D & W and enjoyed working with his dad on many jobs. He married the love of his life on May 4th, 1990, Fran Malmgren-Harms, after meeting her by chance while working in St. James, Minnesota. They made their home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota with their three children, Stacie, Derek, and Rhianna. Laurence's greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
 
He loved to ride his motorcycle with Fran and many friends enjoyed the occasional motorcycle rally, and his annual trip to Brainerd, MN for the motorcycle races with his friends. He also loved to deer hunt with his dad and other family and friends. In his spare time he enjoyed working outside around the house, reading anything he could get his hands on, watching the Chicago Bears on TV, spending time with friends, and rough housing with his beloved dog Molly. Laurence's life was short, but full of joy, happiness, and love. After being confined to a wheel chair, Laurence refused to let his disability bring him down and enjoyed getting out, especially with his wonderful friends and family. His fun loving ways and the smile he brought to everyone he met will be greatly missed.
 
Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Fran; three children, Stacie Moulton and her husband, Troy, Tea, SD, Derek Harms, Tea, SD, Rhianna Parmley and her husband, Jordan, Sioux Falls, SD; four grandchildren, Riley, Andrew, Madelynn, Talon and Baby Parmley on the way; his parents, Pete and Lois Puterbaugh, Sioux Falls, SD; two sisters, Ronda Kiggins, Sioux Falls, SD, Martha Wallenstein and her husband, Dan, Sioux Falls, SD; and a host of other dear relatives and friends. 
 
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Ellen Donovan

Birth Date: 1965-03-24
Deceased Date: Unknown
Obituary: 

Ellen Sue Donovan, daughter of Richard and Marjorie (Poppen) Donovan, was born March 24, 1965, in Sioux Falls, SD. She grew up there graduating from Lincoln High in 1983. She attended Lowthian College in Minneapolis, receiving a degree in Fashion Merchandising.

 

Ellen worked in retail for many years, including 10 years for the Dayton Hudson Corportation, first in Minneapolis and then Sioux Falls. Her last job was with Hancook Fabrics. She enjoyed bike riding, working out at the fitness center, sewing and vacationing in Arizona.

 

Although Ellen never smoked, she died after a courageous fight with lung cancer.

 

She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

 

Grateful for having shared her life are her parents, Richard and Marjorie Donovan, Sioux Falls, her siblings, Julie (Robert) Zastrow, Wausau, WI, Tom (Julie) Donovan, Altus, OK, Jill Donovan, Sioux Falls, Anne Donovan, Manhattan, KS, her grandmother, Katie Poppen, Dempster, SD, five nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

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Sandra Cosgrove

Birth Date: 1965-06-06
Deceased Date: 2006-01-01
Obituary:

Sandra June 'Sandy' Cosgrove passed away on January 1, 2006, suddenly from natural causes at her residence in Brandon, South Dakota.

 

Sandy was born June 6, 1965 in Yankton, South Dakota to Michael J. and Julia L (Baggs) Cosgrove. She moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota at a young age and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1983. She attended class at Augustan College and was later employed in Sioux Falls.

 

Sandy is survived by her mother Julia (Terry) Hodge of Sioux Falls, her grandparents Clinton and June Baggs, of Yankton, South Dakota, and a special friend Brad Wagner of Brandon, South Dakota.

 
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Lori Farrand

Birth Date: 1964-12-28
Deceased Date: 2020-07-25
Obituary:
Lori Dawson-Feucht, 55, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away unexpectedly on July 25, 2020, at her home in Sioux Falls.
 

Lori Ann (Farrand) Dawson-Feucht was born to Doris Fern (Kugler) and Henry Eugene Farrand on December 28, 1964 in Sioux Falls SD.

 

Lori graduated with the class of 1983 from Lincoln Senior High School located in Sioux Falls. She continued her education at Colorado Technical Institute where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Human Resource Management.

 

Lori was employed by Total Card Inc. as a customer service representative until she resigned due to health issues.

 

Lori enjoyed living life to the fullest, she was never afraid of an adventure – from teaching her friends how to drive a stick shift to roaming the United States with Thomas Show Carnivals.

 

Lori had a variety of interests, including; photography, riding horses, riding Harleys, watching the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears football games with friends and spending time with her family.

 

Lori did not let the grass grow under her feet. When she met her husband Doug another of her dreams came true of spending time on a farm. She looked forward with anticipation to their trips back home to Colome where she could spend time with the Dawson and Cole families on their farm / ranch.

 

Lori was preceded in death by her parents, Doris (Kugler) and Henry Farrand; brothers, Gary, Lyle and Larry Farrand; her husband, Doug Dawson; and her father in-law, Darus Dawson.

 

She will be fondly remembered by her brother, Harold (Grace) Farrand; sister, Linda (Farrand) Charles; sister in-law, Vikki Farrand; mother in-law, Sharon Dawson; and numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

 

Lori is now riding horses and Harleys in heaven and enjoying a pain free life.

 

Honorary pallbearers are: Jerry Ringlbauer, Dale Farrand, Michael Charles, Chris Fast Horse, Jeremiah, Joshua and Jacob Cole and Mike Williams.

 
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Kristi Otten

Birth Date: 1964-12-17
Deceased Date: 2020-07-22
Obituary:
Kristi N Otten, 55, of Wessington Springs passed away Wednesday morning July 22nd at her home.
 

Kristi was born December 17, 1964 the daughter of Donald and Sandra (Swavely) Otten. She graduated high school in 1983.

In 2011 Kristi was united in marriage to David Hook.

 

She had many different jobs after school including driving cement truck, construction work and flag person on the street construction in Wessington Springs.

 

Her hobbies included fishing, camping, going to flea markets, rock hunting, canoeing, her love for the outdoors and nature and her Scottie dogs.

 

Kristi is survived by her husband David Hook; one daughter Jacelyn Smith; two sons Will Saunders and Justin Saunders; her mother Sandra Otten; two brothers Mike and Jeff Otten.

 

She was preceded in death by her father Donald, her grandparents, aunts, and two stepsons.

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Lynn Arens Ericksen

Birth Date: 1965-01-07
Deceased Date: 2018-01-23

Obituary:

Lynn Marie Eriksen-Schmidt was born on January 7, 1965 in Sioux Falls, SD. She was one of 2 daughters to Dennis and Jean (Healy) Arens.

 

She attended SDSU, received her LPN degree and later completed her RN degree in Austin, TX, where she met her first husband, Grant Eriksen. In July of 1993, Christina (“Tina”) was born and shortly thereafter, Lynn and Christina moved back to SD. Lynn married Tom Schmidt in 1999 and had three more children, Cassandra (“Cassie,” 19), Joshua (“Josh,” 17) and Alisha (15).

 

Lynn was a nurse at Avera hospital for 23 years taking wonderful care of patients with her kind, nurturing and gentle demeanor. She transferred to the Dougherty House in August, 2016, just 5 months prior to her diagnosis of Stage 4 Colon Cancer, and ironically, is where she peacefully passed away on January 23, 2018.

 

Five years ago, John Curry came into Lynn’s life and was by her side every day since they met. He has been her “rock” throughout this 2-year battle with cancer. Lynn fought hard and gracefully, rarely complained and did everything she could to stay on this earth to watch her kids grow up and become the incredible individuals that they are today and will continue to become in the years to come.

 

There is no person who loved life more than Lynn. She was always up for an adventure whether it was getting together with friends, attending events or traveling with friends and family. If there was an opportunity to have some fun, Lynn was there! She was a “social butterfly”, loved by all she met and touched so many hearts throughout her 53 years of life. Lynn’s circle of friends is endless. She (and her entire family) is blessed to have had so much love and assistance throughout this 2 year ordeal. Lynn’s faith in God; the way she lived her life; and her love for others helped in her relentless battle. For those same reasons, we know where she is right now.

 

Lynn was an amazing daughter, sister, niece, cousin, friend and MOM…and will be missed dearly by all! Lynn is survived by her children: Christina, Cassandra, Joshua, Alisha; father: Dennis Arens; sister and brother-in-law: Julie & Ryan Terry; niece: Jessica Terry; and partner-in-life: John Curry. She was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Arens.

 

 

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Steven Guse

Birth Date: 1965-01-26
Deceased Date: 2011-05-26
Obituary:
Steven Todd Guse, 46 of Fayetteville, North Carolina died suddenly at Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC Chapel Hill.
 
Steve was born in Melrose Park, Illinois to David and Karen (Schubert) Guse on January 26, 1965. He graduated from Sioux Falls Lincoln High School in 1983, from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City, SD in 1987, and from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD in 1999. Steve worked as a mechanical engineer for 8 years in Colorado Springs, CO ending with the Apple Corporation. Steve earned his doctorate from the University Of South Dakota School Of Medicine in 1999. Steve completed a surgical internship at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota before entering the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency Program at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Loma Linda, CA.
 
Dr. Guse practiced at the Physical Rehabilitation Department at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, the Independence Back Institute in Wilmington, NC, and the RPK Center for Rehabilitation, Spine, and Pain Management in Fayetteville, NC.Steve was a family man and a friend to many.
 
He enjoyed playing football and baseball player beginning with the Livonia, Michigan Cardinals, the Lincoln High School, Patriots, and the SDSM&T Hardrockers. He was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions and a lover of fantasy football.
 
Dr. Steven T. Guse is survived by his wife Stacy, son Jason of Wilmington, NC, stepchildren Ted Muehleisen of San Diego, CA, and Lauren McNeil of Wilmington, NC, his father David Guse of Sioux Falls, SD, and his brother Scott Guse and family of George, IA. He was preceded in death by his mother, Karen.
 
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David Leuning

Birth Date: 1964-10-03
Deceased Date: 2008-04-13
Obituary:

David W. Leuning, 43, of Sioux Falls, died Sunday, April 13, 2008 at Sanford Health following a lengthy battle with cancer.

 

David W. Leuning was born October 3, 1964 in Fargo, North Dakota. He is the son of Wilfred “Wup” Leuning and Marian (Nelson) Leuning. He grew up in Sioux Falls where he received his education, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1983.

 

Following high school David joined the family business, D&W Industries, a grain elevator construction business that also manufactures Shanzer grain dryers. He worked in this business his entire adult life and was one of the co-owners of the company.

 

On May 6, 1982, he was united in marriage with Julie Christensen at the First Reformed Church in Sioux Falls. The couple lived in the Ellis area at the time of his death. David was a member of First Reformed Church and was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman.

 

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Julie Leuning of Ellis, SD; his son, Wayne Leuning and his fiancé, Lisa Hubbell of Colton, SD; one brother, Scott Hendricks Leuning (Lana) of Sioux Falls, SD; his sisters, Kristi Johnson (Dennis) of Catoosa, OK; Teri Greer (Lee) of Sioux Falls, SD; his mother, Marian Leuning of Sioux Falls, SD; along with numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, Wilfred “Wup” Leuning and a nephew, Simon Hendricks Leuning.

 
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Greg Noordermeer

Birth Date: 1965-04-02
Deceased Date: 1981-09-13

Obituary:

Gregory D. Noordermeer, 16, of 2820 South Duluth Avenue died Sunday at Sioux Valley Hospital following a short illness.

 

He was born April 2, 1965 in Sioux Falls and was a Junior at Lincoln Senior High School.

 

Survivors include his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Noordermeer, Sioux Falls, a brother, Mark, Sioux Falls, his Grandmother, Mrs. Elmer Hill, Harrisburg, South Dakota.

 

Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Harrisburg United Methodist Church. A prayer service will be at 7:30 p.m. tonight at Miller Funeral Home. Burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetary in Harrisburg.

 

 

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Mark Harris

Birth Date: 1965-01-22
Deceased Date: 2004-11-29

Obituary:

Mark Harold Harris, son of Phyllis (Rollings) Harris was born January 22, 1965 in Shakopee, MN. He grew up in Sioux Falls, SD and attended Franklin Elementary, Whittier Junior High and graduated from Lincoln High School.

 

Mark was united in marriage with LesAnne Hudson on August 9, 1985 in Sioux Falls, SD. The couple made their home in rural Harrisburg, SD. Mark was employed as an account executive for Johnson Diversey for 8 years.

 

Mark enjoyed fishing, boating, taking care of his lawn and watching the Minnesota Vikings. He also enjoyed watching his kids sporting events, football, wrestling and volleyball. Mark was proud of his daughter's strengths and ambitions and of all his children's successes. Mark will greatly be missed along with his sense of humor and jokes.

 

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, LesAnne Harris, Harrisburg, SD; his children, Lindsay, Brandon, Preston Harris, all of Harrisburg, SD; mother and father-in-law, Mike and Mary Hudson, Sioux Falls, SD; sister-in-law, Lisa (Joe) Kolb, Sioux Falls; six brothers-in-law, Michael (Linda) Hudson, Sioux Falls, SD, Mark (Karen) Hudson, Garretson, SD, Paul (Lisa) Hudson, Decorah, IA, Jon (Brenda) Hudson, Harrisburg, SD, Perry (Jean) Hudson, Harrisburg, SD, Brett (Jaime) Hudson,Vermillion, SD; three sisters, Linda (Dave) Flier, Washington, Janet (Terry) James, Minnesota, Shari Hagen, Sioux Falls, SD; two brothers, Larry Harris, Sioux Falls, SD, Alan Harris, Sioux Falls, SD; and 34 nieces and nephews.

 

Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis, sister, Debbie Ann and grandparents, Harold and Belle Rollings. 

 

 

 

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Roger James (Onihan) Mutschelknaus

Birth Date: 1965-07-31
Deceased Date: 2017-04-17

Obituary:

Roger James (Onihan) Mutschelknaus, age 51 of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away on Friday, April 14, 2017.

 

Roger was born July 31, 1965 to Mariann Grey Owl and Joseph Onihan, Jr. After the death of his beloved Mother, Mariann, Roger was adopted at age 6 months by Emil and Ava Mutschelknaus. Roger grew up in Sioux Falls, SD where he graduated from Lincoln High School. Roger joined the Army as a motor transport operator, he was very proud to have served. He worked in Sioux Falls most of his life as a trucker, roofer, carpenter, concrete laborer and enjoyed driving truck the most.

 

His hobbies included fishing, hiking, riding motorcycle, cycling and camping.  He loved the idea of being a cowboy, with cowboy boots as his footwear of choice.

 

Roger leaves behind a brother, Dennis Wayne Onihan (wife, Juanita and granddaughter, Alyssia) of Fort Thompson, SD; step-daughter, Angel; step-son, Dwight Ree; grandchildren; a great many Indian sisters, Iris Sargent and family, Alexis and family of Sioux Falls, SD; two adopted sisters of Sioux Falls, SD and sister Arlette’s children, Candida, Heather, Lillian, Tiffany and Danica.  Family and friends from Fort Thompson, Enemy Swim, and Sioux Falls, SD.

 

He was preceded in death by his Mothers, Mariann Grey Owl and Ava Mutschelknaus; Fathers, Joseph Onihan, Jr and Emil Mutschelknaus; brothers, Anthony All Around, Paul Joseph Onihan, and Timothy John Onihan; sister, Arlette Delphine All Around; and friends,k Albert Williams, Marshella Mutschelknaus, and Willard Darian.

 

Funeral service will begin at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at Calvary Episcopal Cathedral, 500 S. Main Ave., Sioux Falls, SD. Thursday night wake in Fort Thompson, SD at Diamond Willow Ministries.

 

Interment Friday, April 21, 2017 at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Stephan, South Dakota, next to all of his relatives.

 

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Mark Stephen Shlanta

Birth Date: 1965-02-14
Deceased Date: 2022-02-23

Obituary:

Sioux Falls - Mark Stephen Shlanta, 57, husband and father, leader and volunteer, died February 23, 2022 at his home in Sioux Falls, SD after living fully and fearlessly for two years in the face of cancer.

 

Mark was born in Corvallis, OR on Valentine's Day of 1965 to Stephen and Gail Shlanta. Growing up in Brookings, SD, Mark was involved in Boy Scouts (Eagle Scout, 1980) and Brookings Swim Club. He moved to Sioux Falls for his junior year and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1983. Mark attended the University of Missouri at Rolla, where he was an All-American swimmer and earned the honor of being a "Knight of St. Patrick" for his leadership in the Athletic Club. Mark graduated with a Mechanical Engineering Degree in 1989 and earned his master's degree in Engineering Management and Professional Engineering Certification shortly after.

 

Mark began his career in telecommunications at Contel Communications in Wentzville, MO where he modernized residential telephone services from multi-party lines to private ones and upgraded business networks to fiber optic connections.

 

Shortly after his career started, he met his forever valentine, Peggy Lottes. Married in 1992, the couple began their family in Lake St. Louis, MO with the birth of their sons Michael and Karl. The family moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota in 1998 to begin Mark's career with SDN Communications, and soon after they welcomed sons Joseph and Scott.

 

Mark's 23 years at SDN, 21 as CEO, changed the technology and communications landscape of South Dakota. During his tenure, he expanded the fiber optic network to 50,000 miles in South Dakota and extended it into eight surrounding states. Through his leadership SDN built a data center and started providing cybersecurity services.

 

His work in expanding broadband and cybersecurity services garnered national attention. He served as an expert witness for several U.S. Congressional committees. In 2015, an international trade magazine named him a Progressive Rural Network Evolutionary.

 

Known for his ability to remember names and make connections, Mark was a dedicated volunteer and servant leader in the Sioux Falls community. Mark served on the boards of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Avera Health, Bishop O'Gorman Catholic Schools, and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation where he co-chaired Forward Sioux Falls through two successful campaigns.

 

Mark was most passionate about his time spent as a volunteer with Cub Scout Pack 159 and 731 and Boy Scout Troop 48. He considered it a rare and true privilege to be part of the life of each scout and scouter. He saw his own sons achieve the rank of Eagle Scout as well as being Scoutmaster and mentor to scores of other boys. For his efforts and leadership he was awarded the prestigious Silver Beaver in 2010. Mark encouraged everyone to find places where they can make a difference in the community and connect to the people around them.

 

Mark is survived by his wife: Peggy Shlanta, and their sons: Michael, Karl, Joseph and Scott; as well as his mother: Gail (John Peasley) Shlanta; sisters: Kym (Jeff) Osterberg and Katie (Craig) Lawrence and their families. Also grateful for having shared in his life are Peggy's mother: Katherine (Paul) Lottes; her siblings: Paul (Amy) Lottes, Charlie (Kathy) Lottes, Mimi (Rob) Jacobs and their families. Mark was preceded in death by his father: Stephen Shlanta.

 

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Steve Myhre

Birth Date: 1964-10-02
Deceased Date: 2003-12-19

Obituary:

Steven Dale Myhre, 39, was born Oct. 2, 1964, in Sioux Falls, S.D., to Dale and Beverly Myhre. He attended Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls in 1981 and 1982. He graduated from Bettendorf High School in Iowa in 1983, where he was active in sports and a photographer for the school newspaper and yearbook. He was a member of the Quill and Scroll and the National Honor Society. He attended Iowa University for three years, transferring to Syracuse University where he graduated with a degree in advertising in 1987. He worked in advertising agencies in New York, St. Louis and San Francisco.

 


He loved to travel, was a gourmet cook and an avid sportsman. He married Nancy Hill on Nov. 28, 1997. He died in San Francisco on Dec. 19, 2003.

 


Among those who are grateful for sharing his life are his wife, Nancy, New York City; his parents, Dale and Beverly Myhre, Branson, Mo.; his brother-in-law, Thomas Becker, Tooele, Utah; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Amy Myhre Becker.

 

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Jonathan Mark Steinwand

Birth Date: 1964-11-02
Deceased Date: 2023-07-08

Obituary:

Jonathan Mark Steinwand, 58, of Moorhead, MN, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2023 at the Sanford Hospice House in Fargo as the result of a stroke.

 

Jonathan was born in Williston, ND on November 2, 1964 to ElRoy and Janet Steinwand. He spent his growing up years in North and South Dakota, graduating from Sioux Falls Lincoln High School in 1983. He enjoyed playing football and running track and was later inducted into the Lincoln High School Hall of Fame.

 

Jonathan attended Concordia College and graduated with majors in English and Classics and minors in Philosophy and Religion in 1987. It was here that he met the love of his life, Carolyn Kramer.

 

Jonathan and Carolyn married on July 3, 1988 in Waverly, Iowa. After the wedding, Jonathan and Carolyn began their life-long journey of traveling by living in Germany for two years and visiting many countries. Upon returning to the U.S., Jonathan began working in the English Department at Concordia College, where he would end up teaching for 30 years.

 

In 1996, Jonathan and Carolyn welcomed their first child, Gabriel, into the world. In 1998, their daughter Anna was born.

 

Jonathan had a deep love for his family, including his two rescue dogs Toby and Teddy, and was incredibly proud of his children and their accomplishments and compassion for others. He loved deep conversations about literature and philosophy, and was striving to help spread awareness about sustainability.

 

Jonathan was an avid traveler and reader. He traveled across the globe, with his favorite being India. He enjoyed the works of Jonathan Swift and Margaret Atwood, as well as countless animal studies and eco-literature authors.

 

Jonathan is survived by his wife of 35 years, Carolyn Kramer, son Gabriel Steinwand (Minneapolis), daughter Anna Steinwand and her fiancée Garrett Brooks (Minneapolis), parents Janet and ElRoy Steinwand (Sioux Falls), brother Daniel (Virjean) Steinwand, sister Sarah (Steve) Ailts, and 14 nieces and nephews.

 

He is preceded in death by his sister Deborah Steinwand, grandparents Alice and Frank Scherfenberg and Adolf and Lydia Steinwand.

 

Memorials may be sent to Concordia College-Jonathan Steinward Memorial Fund.

 

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Damon Buus


Birth Date:  1965-07-26
Deceased Date: 2024-01-01
Obituary: 

Damon C. Buus, 58, of spirited heart and remarkable talent, departed from this world too soon on January 1, 2024, after a short yet valiant battle with cancer. Born on July 26, 1965, during the union of Jeanette Ziski and Leroy Omer, he was later adopted by Robert Buus, who welcomed him into a loving and nurturing home.

 

Damon's life was a testament to passion and precision, from the roar of engines to the delicate assembly of model planes. His hands, always stained with paint or grease, were a symbol of his dedication to restoring cars, a task in which he found immense joy and fulfillment. "Red is for racing," he'd often say, a mantra that reflected not just a favorite color but a philosophy of living life with intensity and purpose.

 

His competitive spirit was unmatched, evident in the countless trophies and accolades he earned over the years. Damon was not just a participant in races; he was a force to be reckoned with, whether on the drag strip in his youth or in the meticulous world of building and racing RC cars.

 

Beyond the thrill of competition, Damon found solace and joy in the company of his daughters, Alissa and Alanah, and his loyal dog, Nitro. Their shared moments were filled with laughter, love, and lessons, from the rumble of model plane engines to the quiet concentration of assembling model cars.

 

His artistic flair was undeniable, a trait that imbued everything from his carefully crafted models to his keen eye for the aesthetics of a perfectly restored automobile. His love for NASCAR, with heroes like Dale Earnhardt and Kevin Harvick, was more than a hobby; it was a deep-seated passion that fueled much of his life's work.

 

Damon's drive for perfection was evident in every aspect of his life, from the way he approached his dream job at Straight Lines Auto to his personal projects. His innate talent for construction and design was recognized from an early age, as he spent countless hours at Darrell's shop, absorbing the art of race car construction from mentors like Darrell and Lee.

 

Though he leaves behind a legacy of achievements and memories, Damon's absence will be profoundly felt by his family, including his brothers Chad and Jason, and sister, Deenah who admired and loved him deeply. His spirit, a blend of roaring engines, artistic finesse, and a relentless pursuit of perfection, will continue to inspire all who knew him.

 

In honoring Damon's memory, we reflect not on the tragedy of his loss but on the beauty and intensity of his life. May his journey be as swift and passionate as the races he loved, and may his soul find the peace and perfection he always sought. Damon C. Buus, a loving father, brother, and friend, will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

 

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Trish Christensen (Barry)

 

Birth Date:  1965-10-05
Deceased Date: 2024-02-05
Obituary: 

Trish Christensen, 58, of Brandon, SD passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024, at Ava’s House following a short battle with cancer.

 

Family will be present to greet friends from 3:00 – 5:00 pm with a memorial service beginning at 4:30 pm on Thursday, February 8 at Miller Funeral Home Downtown, 507 S. Main Ave., Sioux Falls, SD.

 

Trisha Dawn Barry, daughter of Donald and Joan (Hoyer) Barry, was born October 5, 1965 in Huron, SD.  The family moved to Sioux Falls when she was a young girl.  Trish graduated from Lincoln High School in 1983.

 

She began working at Litton’s.  She then began working at J.C. Penney’s in clothing retail.

 

Trish was united in marriage with Hans Christensen on November 13, 1999 in Las Vegas, NV.  They lived in the Sioux Falls area and in Brandon.  She continued her career at The Limited Clothing and then the Relic Revival Consignment Clothing Store.

 

Trish loved her family and enjoyed making her house a home for them.  She enjoyed working around the house and the yard.  She took the moments to enjoy feeding the birds.  Trish had a special place in her heart for all the feline companions she has had over the years.

 

Grateful for sharing her life are her husband, Hans Christensen, Brandon, SD; Hans’s two children, Jay (Sharon) Christensen, and their children, Iain and Kassie, Hortonville, WI, Jon Christensen (Brooke Bartels), Sioux Falls, SD; her mother, Joan Barry, Sioux Falls, SD; and her brother, Lance (Jane) Barry, Nashville, TN; and several other relatives and friends.

 

She was preceded in death by her father, Don Barry.

 

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