February 11, 1949 ~ November 13, 2025

Jan A. Johnson, 76, Brandon, SD, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on November 13, 2025, at Bethany Meadows in Brandon, SD, after an 11-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, with a Memorial Service beginning at 1:30 p.m., at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon.

In lieu of flowers, her family is requesting donations be made to your local animal shelter in honor of her. She adored animals and throughout her lifetime they brought her so much companionship and joy.

Jan Arlis Engel was born on February 11, 1949, in Tyndall, SD, to John and Thelma (Mitchell) Engel. Jan spent her formative years in Avon, SD, where she created cherished memories with her family and friends. After graduating from Avon High School, she went on to graduate from the University of South Dakota with her bachelor’s degree and later in life received her master’s degree from the North American Baptist Seminary. Through her studies and her work, Jan devoted herself to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her. Jan was known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. She was a source of strength and compassion, always putting others before herself and leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Jan was a radiant presence whose energy and warmth simply could not be contained. Friends and family remember her as a bright light who always wanted to help others, finding joy in lifting those in need. Her laughter was infectious, and she had a unique gift for making every moment fun and memorable. Music was one of Jan’s great passions. Those who knew her best knew her devotion to artists like the Beatles, Journey, and Bon Jovi. 

Jan’s spirit lives on through the many loving and joyful stories she leaves behind. Her grandchildren, in particular, cherish her memory, keeping her energy and spirit alive by retelling those stories and embodying the lessons she taught. Jan’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and compassion—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Jan’s legacy lives on through her children, Jessica (Chad) Nixon, Joshua (Gretchen) Johnson, and Alexis (Deven) Mayne; her adoring grandchildren, Henry Johnson, Kendall Nixon, Mia Nixon, Harper Johnson, Lauren Nixon, and Mason Mayne; and her beautiful sisters, Patricia Odens and Mary Jane Hewett. Her memory is also cherished by her nieces, Melanie, Jennifer, Tonii, Jolene, Jill and Karla; her nephew, Jon; former spouse, Chidi; and sister-in-law Sharon. Her family was her pride and joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Jan was preceded in death by her loving husband, Kenneth Johnson; her parents, John and Thelma Engel; her father and mother in-law, Gil and Stella Johnson; and her brothers-in-law, Jim Odens, Ron Hewett and Jerry Johnson.

Jan loved deeply and sincerely. She knew how to care for people in the truest sense, offering kindness and understanding without reservation. Her ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds set her apart, and her love was a constant source of strength for her family and friends.

August 22, 1966 ~ November 10, 2025

Dawn M. Hammerich, 59, of Hartford, SD, completed her extraordinary journey on November 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and friends, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a future date at the American Legion in Hartford, SD. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a life that continues to motivate others to live with intention and compassion.

Dawn Marie Ketter was born on August 22, 1966, in Milwaukee, WI, to Jack and Dianna (Thompson) Ketter. Dawn lived with purpose, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact. From Waukesha, WI, she went on to help develop a new type of MRI machine for detecting breast cancer, building a legacy that continues to inspire. In 2010, Dawn moved to the Denver, CO area where she worked as a subcontractor for NASA on several projects before moving to Hartford, SD in 2018.

Throughout life, Dawn embraced challenges as opportunities, celebrated milestones with gratitude, and shared kindness freely. Whether through her handmade crafts, or by offering a listening ear and helping hand, she reminded everyone that each day holds the potential to create change.

Dawn is lovingly remembered by her significant other, Kevin Jacobs; her son, Anthony Hammerich, his children, Savanna and Aubriella, his wife, Michelle Hammerich, her children, Isaiah (Madison), Kazia, Nataya, Khamaria and Dacey; Kevin’s children, Stephanie and Michael, 3 grandchildren, Andrew, Penelope and Cameron; 2 great-grandsons, Elias, son of Isaiah, and Jahseh, son of Savanna; her mother and stepfather, Dianna and Tom Anderson; her father and stepmother, Jack and Carol Ketter; and her brother and sister-in-law, Brian and Melanie Ketter.

Dawn now joins her son Micheal; her grandparents; and Michelle’s brother, Jeremy; in eternal peace.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Ava’s House whose care and support brought comfort and dignity to Dawn’s final days.

July 14, 1934 ~ November 7, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Carole J. Bogenrief, 91, Sioux Falls, SD, who left us on November 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

A celebration and burial for Carole will be held in the spring, where family and friends are invited to gather and honor her memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to enjoy something Carole loved — spend time with your family, bake something sweet, or pause to notice a cardinal outside your window — and think of her.

Carole Joyce Hanson was born on July 14, 1934, in Watertown, SD, to Orval and Myrtle (Bunde) Hanson. She graduated from Watertown High School in 1952 and later made her home in Sioux Falls, where she raised her family. Carole’s life was a reflection of kindness, warmth, love, and a touch of feistiness. She found her greatest joy in the simple moments of being surrounded by those she loved most. Family was always at the center of her world.

We will remember Carole for the smiles her favorite hobbies brought her. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aroma of something sweet baking in the oven, and no one ever left her home without a treat and a full stomach. She found beauty in life’s simple pleasures — from watching bright red cardinals outside her window to tending her flower garden, each a little piece of her creativity and care.

Carole is survived by her four children, Ryan (Cheryl) Roethler, Susan (Mark) Winklepleck, Scott (Kathy) Roethler, and Julie (Bob) Natz, who will forever carry her love and lessons in their hearts; grandchildren, Brittany (Josh), Aaron (Francis), and Jessica (Aaron); her great-grandchildren, Ryder and Ava, Lily, Ben, Cooper and Cole, Elliott, and Savannah; along with her brother and sister-in-law, Morry and Judy Hanson; and sister-in-law, Aileen Hanson.

Carole was preceded in death by her husband, Derald; first husband, James; son, Joel; parents, Orval and Myrtle Hanson; and two brothers, Jim and Terry. 

Though she is no longer with us, the warmth of Carole’s love will continue to surround those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Forever loved, forever remembered.

March 21, 2000 ~ November 3, 2025

Timothy “Tim” M. LaSelle-Hook, 25, Sioux Falls, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD surrounded by family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5-6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon with a Memorial Service beginning at 6:30 pm.

Timothy “Tim” Michael LaSelle-Hook, the son of Dustin and Sarah (Honer) LaSelle, was born on March 21, 2000, at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL.

Tim spent his childhood in Belleville until he was 10, then the family moved to Rock Springs, WY.  He graduated from Rock Springs High School in 2018.  The family then moved to Sioux Falls, where Tim resided until his passing.

Soon after moving to Sioux Falls, Tim met the love of his life, Sierra Wrege. They had been together for seven years and were engaged with plans for starting a family.

Tim started working at Casey’s General Store, where he was promoted to Kitchen Manager.  There wasn’t a position in that store he couldn’t do.  He always went above and beyond to help anyone in need. He was very dedicated to his job and co-workers during the six years he was employed there.

Tim loved many things, but most of all he loved his family.  Tim also had a special bond with his pets, especially his cockatiel, Ella, and dog Louie. 

Tim is survived by his mother, Sarah LaSelle; fiancée, Sierra Wrege; brothers, Shawn LaSelle, and Collin Williams; sister, Ryleigh LaSelle; stepbrother, Jacob Musielak; half-sister, Kaydence Hook; grandmother, Vicki (Ron) Coates; great aunt, Donna Hudson; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tim is preceded in death by his father, Dustin LaSelle; grandmother, Ruth Wakefield; and grandfather, Michael Wakefield.

August 20, 1955 ~ October 24, 2025

Edwin “Ed” N. Petersen, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away at the age of 70, on October 24, 2025, at Ava’s House, a hospice house in Sioux Falls.

There will be no funeral, further gatherings are private.

Edwin was preceded in death by his father, Nels Petersen; his mother, Evelyn Petersen; his sister, Beverly Petersen; and his brother, Gordon Petersen.

Edwin lived a great long life and will be remembered and missed dearly by friends and family.

December 14, 1946 ~ October 26, 2025

Janice R. Rubino, 78, Aberdeen, SD, went to be with our Heavenly Father on October 26, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

Janice Rae Rubino was born on December 14, 1946, at 11:20 p.m., at the Volga hospital in Volga, SD, to proud parents Ralph and Irene (Huffman) Fossum. She grew up on a farm in Lily, SD.

Janice graduated from Bristol High School and then furthered her education in business school in Minneapolis, MN. Janice then ventured to California where she met Larry Rubino. She then moved to Texas where she had twin boys, Jeffrey and Bradley. She returned to Lily, SD to raise the twins and graduate from Northern State University. Janice retired from Avera McKennan Hospital.

Janice loved to read on the patio in the warm sun. The hotter it was, the better. She liked to find new recipes to try. Her most cherished times were teaching her granddaughters to cook and bake their favorite meals and then enjoy a family meal together. Janice also loved her pets, Douglas, Stella, and Bug, who will miss her as deeply as her family will.

Janice is survived by her sons, Jeff (Sheri) Rubino, and Bradley Rubino; granddaughters, Angeleah and Brianna Rubino, all of Aberdeen; and brother, Gary (Trudy) Fossum, Lily.

Janice’s children and grandchildren want to thank God for Janice, the wind beneath our wings.

November 29, 1945 ~ October 16, 2025

Dorenda Margaret (Spader) Anderson, 79, of Beaver Creek, MN, entered into the joy of her Lord on October 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Dorenda Margaret Spader was born on November 29, 1945, in Mitchell, SD, and raised on her family’s farm outside Oldham, SD. Dorenda was the daughter of John and Katie (Reichling) Spader, the proud parents of sixteen children. Growing up in such a large farm family instilled in her a strong work ethic, resilience, and a deep sense of community that shaped her entire life.

On July 30, 1977, Dorenda married the love of her life, Dave Anderson, and together they built a home rooted in faith, family, and fun. They raised three children in Beaver Creek — Jodi (Brad) Erickson, Wendy (Richard) Sanders, and Andy (Kate) Anderson — and delighted in their five grandchildren: Grace, Noah, Cale, Reagan, and Elise.

Those closest to Dorenda knew her for her love for Jesus, her servant heart, and her unyielding perseverance. She was known for the countless sacrifices she made for people in need, her passion for justice, and her joy-filled involvement in her “can ministry,” where she found creative ways to bless others. Dorenda also brought laughter and light wherever she went — from wild pool rides in the truck, to her numerous card games and pranks, to her avid biking adventures.

She is survived in life by several loved ones and preceded in death by those who now welcome her home in glory (*Preceded in death): Clarence*, Vivian* (Vern*), Vincent* (Mary*), Donna Mae (Donnie*), Donelda (Leon), Donald* (Joyce), Darrel (Joan*), Darlene (Dick), Delphine (Don*), Duane (Elaine), Dennis (Elizabeth), Dean (Vikki), Doyle* (Chris), Dann (Char), and Dallas (Cris).

Dorenda’s legacy is one of compassion, strength, humor, and unshakable faith. Her family takes comfort in the words of Matthew 25:23:

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Avera Hospice for their compassionate care and support during these past few months. Deep gratitude is also given to the many friends, neighbors, and extended family whose steady outpouring of love and kindness surrounded Dorenda, Dave, and our entire family. Your prayers, visits, and acts of service carried us through this sacred season, and we are forever grateful.

A special word of thanks goes to Kate Anderson and Amanda Blank, whose sleepless tender care and presence provided comfort and peace in Dorenda’s final hours, helping her pass gently into the Kingdom.

In place of flowers or gifts, if you wish to honor Dorenda, please consider a donation to one of the ministries close to her heart:

• New Creation Ministries (www.newcreationministries.net)
• Zeteo Community (www.zeteocommunity.org)
  

April 8, 1961 ~ October 3, 2025

Kevin S. Washburn, 64, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on October 3, 2025 in Sioux Falls.

Kevin will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held in his honor at a later date. A plaque in his memory will be placed at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, where friends and family are welcome to visit and remember him.

Kevin Scott Washburn was born on April 8, 1961, in Jacksonville, FL. Kevin lived a bold, adventurous, and music-filled life that touched the hearts of many.

Kevin proudly served in the United States Army from 1979 to 1982, receiving an honorable discharge. After his military service, he followed his true passion—music. With the encouragement of his beloved grandmother Jacqueline, Kevin began his musical journey on the piano before finding his voice with the guitar. He went on to form bands, play with lifelong friends, and chase his dreams all the way to Los Angeles, where he performed, auditioned, and connected with many fellow musicians—some of whom would become lifelong friends.

Kevin called many places home over the years—California, New Mexico, Texas, Florida, Georgia, and South Dakota—and carried his music with him every step of the way. Kevin released two albums, The Journey and The Gypsy’s Blood, with a third in the works at the time of his passing. His music lives on and can still be heard on various platforms, a lasting testament to his talent and spirit.

Kevin’s greatest joy in life was becoming a father to his daughter, Ashlyann Saathoff, with Andrea Salmon. He later moved to South Dakota to be closer to Ashlyann, her husband Michael, and his cherished granddaughters, Layla and April. His love for them was unwavering.

Kevin was more than a musician—he was an adventurer, a storyteller, and a friend to all. Whether diving off cliffs, rafting wild rivers, camping, or playing his guitar on stage or under the stars, Kevin embraced life with fearless enthusiasm. He was known for his big heart, generous nature, and his unwavering dedication to music and the people he loved.

Beloved father, brother, son, grandfather, cousin and friend.

Kevin is survived by his daughter, Ashlyann Saathoff and son-in-law, Michael Saathoff; his granddaughters, Layla and April Saathoff; his brother, Cameron Washburn and sister-in-law, Lisa Washburn; and his nieces, Abigail and Sarah Washburn.

Kevin was preceded in death by his mother, Jacqueline Buel; and his grandparents, Paul and Jacqueline Washburn.

Kevin Washburn was truly one of a kind—wild, kind, talented, and full of life. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

December 17, 1963 ~ August 15, 2025

James L. Williams, 61, Brandon, SD, passed away due to health complications on August 15, 2025, at Good Samaritan Society in Sioux Falls, SD.  

A Memorial Service will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 400 S. Chestnut Blvd., Brandon.

James Miyagi Williams was born on December 17, 1963, in Okinawa, Japan. He was adopted by Archie R. and Sumiko (Saito) Williams when he was 9 days old. The family remained in Japan where his father was in the U.S. Army, until his retirement in 1967. The family lived in New York and New Jersey until finally settling down in Opalocka, Florida. James’ name was then changed to James Leonard Williams.

James was active in music and graduated with both band and academic honors from Miami Carol City Senior High School in 1981. He was very proud to become a United States Citizen at age 17 and remained very patriotic throughout his life. Independence Day was always his favorite holiday.  After graduation he attended Florida State University in Tallahassee, where he majored in Political Science and played saxophone as a member of the Florida State University Marching Chiefs.

While in college, James joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and went on to serve a full-time mission in the Ohio-Cleveland Mission. After his mission, he returned to Tallahassee and married Kara L. Urquhart. The couple had one child, daughter, Meredith.

After living in Miami for a few years, the family moved to South Dakota where James attended Southeast Technical Institute and Colorado Technical University. He worked for Gateway 2000 and other technology-related jobs for many years before his retirement due to disability. He continued to serve in his church callings, and he remained proud of his United States Citizenship and Japanese heritage. He also loved and followed everything about Florida State University.

James is survived by his daughter, Meredith L. Williams, of Idaho Falls, ID.

James was preceded in death by his father, Archie Rudolphers Williams; and his mother, Sumiko Saito Williams.

Ways to honor the memory of James Miyagi Leonard Williams: Eat Japanese food, he loved sushi and hibachi. Listen to Florida State University Marching Chiefs or watch FSU Football. Listen to jazz music and enjoy musicals. Watch old Japanese monster movies or TV shows dubbed into English, Think of him during any patriotic display or event. He was especially proud to be a US Citizen.

September 15, 1989 ~ October 5, 2025

Devin S. Knigge’s amazing life was cut short on Thursday, September 25, 2025, when he went into cardiac arrest and his brain was without oxygen for over 30 minutes.  His body finally succumbed to the damage to his brain, and he passed away on October 5, 2025, at the age of 36, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 29, 2025, in Arkansas City, KS. At Devin’s request, Yellowstone National Park will be his final resting place along with his grandma, Sandi Knigge.

Devin Scot Knigge was born on September 15, 1989, in Minnesota, at Worthington Regional Hospital, the day before Turkey Day. (If you know, you know) Devin’s love language was giving to others, and he had such a giving spirit. He was always willing to help out when needed, loved to give everyone special gifts just because he thought of them, and was always ready to pitch in to help his co-workers. 

Devin worked at Blue Rock Bar & Grill where he was able to pursue his passion for cooking and becoming a talented chef.  He started cooking at a very young age with his first signature dish of scrambled eggs and salsa, which he firmly believed he had invented.  He had a passion for cooking and was always putting his own special twist to any meal that he made.

Devin also had a passion for Legos, which started at a very young age when his grandpa gave him his first Lego set.  His Lego passion grew throughout the years, and he proudly displayed his numerous Lego creations around his home. His brother said that he was pretty sure that Devin’s heart was made of Legos, and if it wasn’t, Devin would have wished that it was.  Devin showed his love with Legos and passed that love on to his niece and nephew, who both love Legos as well.

Devin also had a love for Harry Potter, the Minnesota Vikings (win or lose), and Mountain Dew. He was an avid collector of memorabilia including Funko Pops, Game of Thrones, and Walking Dead. He went to numerous Walking Dead events including the Walker Stalker cruise, and was fortunate to meet many of the actors, and have his Walking Dead character figurines signed. He also loved Pokémon and would play Pokémon Go with his beloved dog Wheezy.

Devin’s cousin shared one thing that stood out to him and that was Devin’s resiliency.  Life had a habit of knocking Devin down, but he always got back up.  People are often more than the sum of their parts-and Devin’s resiliency was one of the many things that made him so special.  His Auntie Ann will never forget his amazing smile and his joyful laugh, which contributed to his joyful heart.  Devin enjoyed Nerf gun wars with his brothers, and playing games at family get togethers, which usually resulted in hearing his joyful laughter.  His brother has a favorite Devin moment that occurred on a family trip to Universal Studios. His bond with Devin was strengthened and solidified, which resulted in special memories with Devin that he will forever cherish.
Devin will forever be remembered and loved by his family, mother, Dawn Ruge; father, Sergio Ruge; brothers, Kai Ruge, and Taylor (Morgan Noshbush) Knigge; grandfather, William (Karen, Heather, and Meghan) Knigge; aunt and uncle, Ann and Greg Stofferan; cousins, Shane (Tanya, Kennedy and Ryker) Stofferan, Spencer Stofferan, and Cameran Stofferan; niece, Laila Clairmont; and nephew, Thomas Knigge.

Devin was preceded in death by his grandma, Sandi Knigge; he was her first grandchild and they shared a very special bond, great grandpas and grandmas, Robert and Joan Gustafson, and Fritz and Kathy Knigge; and his beloved dog, Wheezy.