July 2, 1936 ~ January 19, 2026

Robert “Bob” L. Shuck, 89, Brandon, SD, died Monday, January 19, 2026, at Palisade Healthcare in Garretson, SD.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon with a Memorial Service beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Robert “Bob” Lynn Shuck was born on July 2, 1936, in Volga, SD, to Orville and Bess (Mershon) Shuck. He was baptized on March 20, 1948, at the Methodist Parsonage. Bob graduated from Arlington High School in 1954. He graduated from South Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in education.

Bob married Marilyn Erickson at 1^st United Methodist Church in Brookings, SD on August 16, 1958. He also enlisted in the army in Sioux Falls in August 1958. He served in the army until he was discharged in Fort Totten, NY in August 1961.

Bob was a teacher for the Sioux Falls School District from August 1963 until he retired in May 1999. He spent most of his adult life as a part-time beekeeper, which was a perfect summer job for a teacher. He was a beekeeper beginning in his mid-30’s until he was in his 70’s.

Bob was a Mason, a member of the South Dakota Teachers Retirement Board, and a member of the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Chapter 289. He also held a private pilot’s license. Bob’s claim to fame was building a T18, two-seat plane that was featured on the cover of EAA Sports Aviation Magazine. Unfortunately, due to migraines, he was unable to finish the build or pilot the plane. He was able to ride in it.

Bob is survived by his wife, Marilyn; sons, Brad (Cindy) Shuck, Sioux Falls, and Wade (Danyel Juillard) Shuck, Brandon; grandson, Alex (Megan) Shuck, Sioux Falls; granddaughter, Ona (Sean) Wellons, Bloomington, MN; and great-granddaughters, Kenna and Knox.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Bess; and a brother, Richard.

October 9, 1939 ~ January 14, 2026

Wilbert “Willlie” C. Honken Jr., 86, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on January 14, 2026, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls.

An immediate family gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Make-A-Wish in Williw’s memory.

Wilbert “Willie” Cornie Honken Jr. was born on October 9, 1939, in Edna, IA, to Wilbert and Elizabeth (Vierhout) Honken. He married Gladys Swier on August 28, 1965, and they celebrated their 60^th wedding anniversary in 2025.

Willie was in the trucking industry for most of his life. He spent 26 years as a dispatcher with Vaughn Trucking. After retiring, Willie and Gladys enjoyed one winter in Arizona and six years in Texas.

Willie is survived by his wife, Gladys; daughters, Tammy, Teresa, and Traci; 10 grandchildren;  5 great-grandchildren; sister, Alvina (Darrell) Borchers; daughters-in-law, Karen Pearson and Lori Honken; sisters-in-law, Elaine Swier and Marilyn Honken; and niece, Vonnie Baumberger.

Willie was preceded in death by his four sons, Mark, Brad, Brian, and Chad; daughter, Toni; parents, Wilbert and Elizabeth; and brother, Everon.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at the Dougherty Hospice House for their kindness, care, and support during Willie’s final days.

February 1, 1997 ~ January 13, 2026

Brentyn L. Koepp, 28, Sioux Falls, SD, beloved son, father, grandson, and brother, passed away on January 13, 2026, in Sioux Falls.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 1:30-3:00pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon.

Brentyn Lee Koepp was born on February 1, 1997, in South Dakota, to Matthew Koepp and Danielle Ilchuk. Brentyn’s life, though far too brief, left a quiet but lasting mark on those who knew him.

Brentyn will be remembered for his booming laughter, his intense feelings, and his love for the outdoors. Motorcross, hunting, fishing, and golf were some of the places where he found joy and a sense of freedom.

Brentyn is survived by his children, Bryson and Paisley; parents, Danielle Ilchuk and Matthew Koepp; siblings, Kami, Aimee, Keiana, Anya, and Jayden; step‑siblings, Connor, Alanna, Kaidan, Darian, and Mauria; grandmother, Kim Miller; along with extended family who will carry his memory forward.

April 16, 1965 ~ January 9, 2026

Paul D. Stevens, 60, Minneapolis, MN, died Friday, January 9, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.

Paul David Stevens was born on April 16, 1965, in Redfield, SD, to Gerald and Mary (McNeely) Stevens. Paul graduated from Minneapolis Lutheran High school in 1983. He attended Normandale Community College, and St. Cloud State University. He worked several different jobs after leaving school, eventually working for Pioneer Rim & Wheel in Minneapolis for close to 30 years.

Growing up Paul had a very independent nature and loved being outdoors. Some of his favorite memories were the time he spent in South Dakota every summer visiting his aunts, uncles and cousins on their family farms or in North Dakota visiting his grandparents. Those visits gave him a chance to discover the joy and connections of extended family. Paul was extremely lucky to have a close-knit group of childhood friends from the neighborhood whom he loved spending time with.

Paul’s grandpa taught him to fish early on at the family cabin in Cotton Lake, MN, and that remained one of his favorite activities as an adult. He also enjoyed pheasant hunting every October with family and friends in Faulk County, SD. In the winter he enjoyed snowmobiling trips to Wyoming and northern Minnesota with the Burnsville Sno-Mo-Kades.

Paul is survived by his parents, Gerald and Mary; sister, Paula; and a large extended family.

The family wishes to thank the ICU staff at Avera-St. Lukes and Avera -McKennan hospitals as well as the Welch Family Village in Sioux Falls for their care and support of Paul and his family.

July 10, 1966 ~ January 10, 2026

Kimberly Schwenke-Cram, 59, Madison, SD, passed away at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, on Saturday, January 10, 2026, after battling pneumonia, blood clots, and Valley Fever.

A Celebration of Life for Kim will be 5-6:30pm, Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Victory Life Church, (701 E 60^th St North, Sioux Falls, SD) with a short time of sharing at 6:30pm. To watch the Time of Sharing, click HERE. Please Note: This link will take you to the page for Victory Life Church on Vimeo. Once there you may need to scroll to the bottom of the featured videos to find the active livestream. Livestream will be streaming by 6:15pm. You will look for the video with the word “live” on it. If you have any trouble finding or accessing the live stream, please feel free to contact me directly by text between 6:15 and 6:30 at 605-251-6447 for a more direct link. 

To visit Kim’s Forever Missed page to view pictures or leave comments, please click HERE.

Kimberly Sue Thomas was born July 10, 1966 in Beatrice, Nebraska to Charles and Betty Jean (Tincher) Thomas. Kim graduated from Lewiston Consolidated Schools in 1984. Kim was married to Roger Cram on September 29, 2012 in Madison, South Dakota. Kim had one son, Dylan Bludorn, who lives with his wife, Brooklynn Bludorn, in Mesa, AZ.

Kim always prided herself as being a self-made single mother most of her life. Kim was Vice-President of two different title companies, a mortgage loan officer, and had an insurance agency during her professional career. She especially loved working with her Medicare insurance clients. She also owned multiple rentals and a mobile home park. Kim was proud to have been a Chamber Ambassador for the Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce when she lived in Sioux Falls, SD.

Kim was always full of life, laughing, and having fun. Everyone knew her in a short time because she would walk up to total strangers and say “Hi, I’m Kim”. Kim lived on Lake Madison and enjoyed boating, four wheeling in the Black Hills, scrapbooking, and was looking forward to traveling in her fifth wheel camper. She liked to spend time at the beach in Mexico and travel to Arizona to see her son and daughter-in-law and was planning to spend the winters there after working hard all of her life.

Survivors include husband, Roger Cram; son, Dylan (Brooklynn) Bludorn; brother, Gregg (Linda) Thomas; sister Julie (Todd) Bowhay, and sister Chris Thomas; sister-in-law, Sherry Thomas, sister-in-law, Louise (Bob) Flom, brother-in-law, Melvin (Kay) Cram, brother-in-law, Ralph (Jean) Cram, sister-in-law, Roxanne (Mike) LeFever; and multiple other nieces and nephews.

Kim is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Betty Jean (Tincher) Thomas; brother, Scott Thomas; and parents-in-law, Roland and Faith Cram.

September 21, 1948 ~ January 5, 2026

Jane E. Schultz, 77, Brandon, SD, died Monday, January 5, 2026, at Bethany Home in Brandon.

As per Jane’s wishes, her family will celebrate her life together at a later date. 

Jane Elizabeth Douglas was born to Elmer L. and Florence M. (Mitchell) Douglas on September 21, 1948, in Bath, SD, and went on to spend most of her life in the state. She graduated from Brookings High School in 1966, raised her family in Valley Springs, worked in Sioux Falls, and retired in Brandon.

Jane was an avid sports fan – especially if it was a local team or her grandchildren were involved. You could always count on her being in the bleachers or watching Brandon Valley, SDSU, Flyers Hockey, or the team of anyone she cared for.

Jane found great joy in the many friends she met through her time spent in the church, participating in Bible study, or just being a social neighbor. These friendships were a meaningful and cherished part of her life. She also valued the time spent with her grandchildren, whether that meant cheering them on, taking them to their favorite activities as children, or just simply hearing about their lives as they grew up. When Jane had free time, she often enjoyed arts and crafts including crocheting, making personalized Christmas stockings for her family, and recently, diamond art. Her smile was the brightest, her laugh the most infectious, and her heart was the happiest when she gave her love away through a hug, her time, and anything she made.

Jane loved and was loved by her husband Ron, her children and their spouses, Missy and Brad Klemme, Todd and Maggie Schultz, and Lisa and Dan Carolin; and her brother, Bill and Ann Douglas and their family. Nothing brought her more joy than her 7 grandchildren, Brandon and Joanie Klemme, Courtney and Spencer Kruse, Christian Klemme, Sydney Schultz, Natali Schultz, Cannon Schultz, and Ben Carolin; and great-granddaughter, Rory Jane Klemme.  

God showed her His love through friends, family, and all who cared for her at Bethany home. For that, her family is forever grateful. Her impact on this world will be lived out through all who felt her unconditional love for them.

April 12, 1940 ~ January 3, 2026

David C. O’Banion, 85, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Ava’s House Hospice in Sioux Falls, surrounded by his cherished loved ones.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5:00-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, followed by a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Inurnment will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, where David will be laid to rest with the honors he so richly deserved.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a veterans’ organization in his honor, reflecting his commitment to those who served alongside him.

David Cline O’Banion was born on April 12, 1940, in Grant County, Kentucky, to Steven and Francis (Gray) O’Banion. David graduated from Grant County High School. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. There, he honed his skills as a marksman, specializing as a sniper, and proudly served for two years before receiving an honorable discharge. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and patriotism that guided him throughout his life.

Following his service, David spent time in Ohio, where he joyfully welcomed two of his daughters into the world. He later moved to California, residing there until 1990, when he relocated to South Dakota. It was in South Dakota that he met the love of his life, Yolanda. The couple married on May 9, 1992, embarking on a beautiful partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

David dedicated 47 years of his life to being an over-the-road truck driver, with much of that time spent at Tri-State Flooring. His strong work ethic and reliability made him a respected figure in his field until his well-earned retirement in 2005. In his later years, David found immense pleasure in simple, heartfelt pursuits: crafting intricate dollhouses in his workshop, relaxing on the porch while feeding the birds and squirrels, and, above all, cherishing moments with his wife, children, and grandchildren. His infectious sense of humor was legendary—whether you were a lifelong friend or a passing acquaintance, David always had a ready joke and a warm smile to brighten your day. He lived with an open heart, teaching those around him the value of kindness, resilience, and finding joy in everyday wonders.

Those grateful for having shared in David’s remarkable life include his devoted wife, Yolanda O’Banion of South Dakota; his children, Tonia O’Banion of California, Christine (John) Murphy of California, Tenna Barton of South Carolina, Tammie Messer of South Dakota, and Sam (Michelle) Messer of South Carolina; his 13 beloved grandchildren; his 14 great-grandchildren; and his in-laws, Sharon Schmidt of South Dakota and Lane (Kristy) Munger of South Dakota. One of David’s great grandkids brought him a particular pride by carrying on his name—a testament to the enduring legacy David leaves behind.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Francis O’Banion; his siblings, Betty (Cline) Wright and Herold (Brenda) O’Banion; and his brother-in-law, Ron Schmidt.

David’s life was a beautiful tapestry of service, adventure, hard work, and profound family bonds. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the stories shared, the laughter echoed, and the love he so generously gave. May he rest in eternal peace.

August 29, 1954 ~ January 3, 2026

Donna J. Nichols, age 71, Brandon, SD, went home peacefully to Jesus on January 3, 2026, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, SD, following a long and courageous battle with chronic pain and COPD. Donna’s faith was an important part of her life, and her family finds comfort knowing she is now healed and resting in the arms of her Savior.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home, Brandon, SD, with a Time of Sharing beginning directly after. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Sioux Falls.

Donna Jean Stelzer was born on August 29, 1954, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Robert and Agnes “Tokey” (Jellema) Stelzer.

Donna took pride in her work and personal accomplishments. She received her GED from Turnabout in 1986, a milestone she was very proud of. She was employed at Brown Drug from 1986 to 1993; a job she often said was her favorite. She later worked as an insurance clerk at Kreisers Inc. from 1993 until her retirement in 2009, where she was known for her dedication and attention to detail.

One of Donna’s most treasured experiences was a trip to Jerusalem in 2006, where she was baptized in the Jordan River—an event she held close to her heart and spoke of often.

Donna found happiness in life’s simple pleasures and in her own creative ideas. She had a great imagination and delighted in coming up with quirky inventions and clever solutions to everyday problems. She often joked that she could give you more than a hundred uses for a clothespin, a reflection of her practical creativity and playful mind. She also enjoyed shopping and selling on eBay, antiquing, fishing, and treasure-hunting at rummage sales. One of her favorite pastimes was working on puzzles, and she could often be found pulling weeds in the garden, always with a bright smile. Donna also had a playful spirit and loved playing Super Nintendo, especially her favorite game, Zombies Ate My Neighbors.

She loved music, especially Neil Diamond, and was overjoyed to see him perform in concert during the final tour of his career. Donna also loved watching movies, particularly classic comedies from the 1980s and early 1990s, which brought her endless laughter and comfort.

A woman of deep faith and distinctive charm, Donna was known for her favorite saying, “If you ain’t Dutch, you ain’t much!” Her passion for cleanliness and order was unmatched, and she took great pride in maintaining a tidy home. She also enjoyed watching Court TV and Fox News and was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan, faithfully sporting her Vikings gear on game days.

Donna is survived by her two daughters, Kimberly Johnson (daughter of her first husband, Leslie Johnson) and Amanda Christopherson; as well as her son, Jason Burma, whom she did not raise but was very fond of and held close in her heart. She was a proud mother-in-law to Dave and Ezekiel; and a devoted grandmother to Caden, Jackson, Madison, Kennedy, Micah, and Ella. Her love also extended to her great-grandchildren, Oliver and Sapphire. She is further survived by her brother, Douglas Stelzer; brother-in-law, Dave Larson Sr.; stepsister, Cora Martin; her cherished dog, Lilah, who brought her immense joy and comfort; her nieces and nephews; and several cousins near and far.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Stelzer and Agnes (Tokey) Becker; her brother, David Stelzer; her sister, Deborah Larson; and her husband, John Nichols. She was also preceded in death by her stepfather, Glen Becker, and her stepmother, Helen Sager.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Ava’s Hospice House for their kindness, care, and support during Donna’s final days.

“I know something you don’t know!” — Words from Donna she wanted to share with everyone.

July 30, 1959 ~ December 18, 2025

Janice E. Chatfield, 66, Harrisburg, SD, entered the loving arms of her wonderful savior, Jesus, after a short battle with cancer on Thursday, December 18, 2025.  

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2025, at Central Church in Sioux Falls.

Janice Elaine Bartkus was born on July 30, 1959, in Muscatine, IA to Edward and Charlotte (McKillip) Bartkus. She graduated from Muscatine High School in 1978.

Janice loved attending Christian music concerts, traveling the United States, especially the Western part with her parents, watching every musical movie that came out, walking and working out, and shopping.

Her faith was the foundation and stronghold in her life and always trusted in God and his plans.

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Janice is survived by her daughter, Carissa; and sisters, Terri Junker and Denise Tucker.

December 8, 1940 ~ December 10, 2025

Melvin R. “Dick” Steineke, 85, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Heartland Funeral Home, 1801 Frontier St., Brandon. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Church of the Good Shepherd, 2707 W. 33^rd Street, Sioux Falls.

Melvin “Dick” Richard Steineke was born on December 8, 1940, at home, in Hartford, SD, to Melvin “Bud” and Virginia (Speilmann) Steineke. He attended Hartford High School and later moved to Sioux Falls, where he began working at Olson’s Lumber. In 1962, he started a long career with John Morrell & Co., retiring in 2001. Never one to sit still, Dick continued working after retirement—first at Gateway, until its closure in 2004, and then at Old English, where he remained until his final retirement in October 2025.

Dick married Rosalie Yesda on June 8, 1962, and together they made their home in Brandon, where they raised their daughter, Dolly (Mike) Taylor of Brandon, along with Rose’s children — Butch Martin of Rapid City, Rhonda (Jim) Bachmeier of Brandon, Fred (Cora) Martin of Sioux Falls, and Jimmy (Ann) Martin of Mitchell — whom Dick loved as his own.

In 1984, Dick moved to Sioux Falls and later married Joanne Holcom on July 8, 1996. Through this union, he also shared a bond with Joanne’s grown children, Heidi Holcom and Eric Holcom.

In his younger years, Dick loved hunting, fishing, and weekends at his lake home on Lake Herman. Later, he spent cherished time at his place on Waubay Lake, where he was known for hosting cookouts, keeping everyone well-fed, and firing up the grill or smoker for family and friends. Dick was a natural caretaker, always looking out for others. He never hesitated to mow a yard, shovel a driveway, or stop by with a warm meal for those who needed it. He enjoyed sitting on the porch, visiting with anyone who stopped by to chat. He never tired of watching his old western shows on repeat, and he kept a close watch on football scores.

Dick will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous heart, and the warmth he brought to every gathering.

Dick’s legacy lives on through his 18 grandchildren, Tanya (Chris) Lambert, Brittany Taylor, Wendy Stricherz, Stacy Stricherz, Samantha Martin, Amber Martin, Alex (Sophia) McRae-Martin, Riah (Anthony) Cole, Ron Martin, Mike (Darce) Martin, Hailey Samo, Christine Douglas, Jamal Douglas, Carson Holcom, Garrett Holcom, Josie Holcom, Gavin Holcom, and Ainhoa Holcom. He was also blessed with 23 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.

Dick is also survived by his brother, Gary (Laura) Steineke; and sisters-in-law, Penny Steineke, Marilyn Steineke, and Shirley Steineke.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin “Bud” and Virginia Steineke; his former wife and dear friend, Rose Steineke; brothers, Larry, Jerry, and Donny; sisters and brothers-in-law Donna (Jim) O’Connell, Sharon (Donald) Kelley, Shirley (Jerry) Kelly, and Bonnie (Dick) Grayson; and nephews, Mike Kelley and Richard Steineke.