April 10, 1965 ~ October 10, 2026

Karen K. Van Vooren, age 61, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Avera Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls where she was surrounded by family, friends and former cherished coworkers after battling cancer for many years.

Visitation will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. Services will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Karen Kay Mehlbrech was born on April 10,1965, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Arthur and Ruth Ann (Rust) Mehlbrech. She spent her entire life in the Sioux Falls area surrounded by family and lifelong friends. Karen’s humility and passion for caretaking was evident as she was honored to make her career comforting and caring for hospice patients as well as providing care for her husband, Paul and multiple family members. She also juggled additional responsibilities while spending many years as a co-owner and business manager of Redi Towing with her husband. Despite a busy schedule, Karen enjoyed many laughs, card games, children’s activities and sporting events. You could also often catch her sipping on a Diet Coke at gatherings with her beloved friends and family as well as trips to many destinations such as Disney World, Daytona Beach, Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Alaska, and Cabo. Karen’s motherly talents, sense of humor, warm personality, strength of character, and natural gifts for comforting and caring will undoubtedly be missed.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Van Vooren; son, Ben (Amanda) Van Vooren; grandchildren, Elija and Elivia; her sisters, Charla Mehlbrech, Glenda Gaffer, Shirley Bell; and her brother, Gary Mehlbrech.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband, Paul; as well as her parents Arthur and Ruth Ann.

April 10, 1957 ~ September 30, 2026

Susanne D. Anderson, age 69, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls following a decline in health.

Susanne Denise Anderson was born on April 10, 1957, in Downey, CA, to Melvin and Vesta (Sinjem) Anderson. She spent more than three decades living in Southern California before relocating to Sioux Falls, SD, to be closer to family.

Susanne is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Veronica (Craig) Endahl of Sioux Falls; her grandchildren, Grant and Cora; her sisters, Dawn Childers of Sioux Falls and Mary Jo Flinn of Brandon; along with other relatives and friends who will cherish her memory. 

Susanne was proceeded in death by her parents, Melvin and Vesta Anderson; and her brothers, Larry, Scott, and Kelly Anderson. 

In accordance with Susanne‘s wishes, no funeral services will be held. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

August 16, 1951 ~ September 29, 2026

Gerald “Jerry” W. Mead, 75, Brandon, SD, a man known for his unwavering patience and deep love for his family, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, surrounded by his cherished loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Augustana Lutheran Church, 921 11th Ave, Clarkfield, MN 56223. Service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with lunch following.

Gerald Wayne Mead was born on August 16, 1951, in Canby, MN, to Warren and Helen (Marczak) Mead.

Jerry’s life was a testament to the power of love and resilience. On September 25, 1992, he united in a beautiful ceremony with Barb Darville, blending their families and building a life rich with adventures, laughter, and most importantly, love. Together, they shared 34 years of marriage, creating countless memories.

Jerry’s career as a welder spanned most of his adult life, a testament to his work ethic and dedication. Even after retiring in 2020, he continued to lend his skills part-time, working as a welder and in property maintenance. His craftsmanship and attention to detail were mirrored in his personal life, especially in his passion for making chocolate chip cookies from scratch, a skill he mastered without ever needing a recipe.

A man of many interests, Jerry found joy in fishing, playing pool, playing Buck, and most importantly, spending time with his family. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and the time he spent with Wesley, Ethan, Kilee, Tucker, Maddie, Tanner, Jade, Trystan, Brittany, Arianna, and bonus grandchildren, Myah and Tucker. 

Jerry is survived by his devoted wife, Barb; his children, Angie, Jessica (Javier), Damon, Jennifer (Darin), David (Shawna), Joe (Katie), Garret, and Michael (Jenny); his beloved grandchildren; his brothers, Roger (Judy), Larry (Loretta), Dwayne (Deb), Richard (Laura), Bruce (Nancy), and Mick; his sisters, Sharon, Rose, Mary (Dale), and Barb; brother-in-law, Jeff (Sharon), sister-in-law, Chere (Crosby), and a host of family friends. Each of them will remember Jerry for his compassion, and the love he generously shared, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to have known him.

Jerry is preceded in death by his son, JJ, his parents, Warren and Helen Mead, his brother, Danny; and his brothers-in-law, Marc, Les, and Dennis.

Jerry’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide his family, friends, and all who knew him, as they celebrate a life well-lived and a man who was deeply loved.

May 27, 1951 ~ September 29, 2026

Dianne L. Gustafson, age 75, Sioux Falls, SD, died Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Good Samaritan Society in Howard, SD. 

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD.

Dianne Loraine Fuehrer was born on May 27, 1951, in Huron, SD to Donald and Myrtle (Nordland) Fuehrer. She grew up in Sioux City, IA with her parents and two siblings, David and Carol. Her father passed away during her teenage years, and she moved to Sioux Falls to live with her aunt, Barb, affectionately known as “Grandma Bubbles”. Dianne joined in matrimony with her husband, Darrell Gustafson, on December 12, 1972, wherein they were blessed with 3 children. Dianne worked in various manufacturing jobs before finding her true passion for cleaning. She started her own cleaning business around 1993 and continued until her health declined and retired in 2021.

Dianne was an avid collector of M&M figurines, coins, and watching NASCAR (especially the M&M car). Her greatest joy in life was her grandchildren. Nothing would light up her face more than spending time with them.

Dianne will be greatly missed by her family.  She is survived by her 3 children, Donny Gustafson and his children, Jessica, Eric, Kevin, Michael, Jacob, Daisy and Connor; Dawn (Andrew) Zych and her children, Kaleb, Ashton, Noah, Samuel and Liam; and Dustin Gustafson and his son Caden; her brother, David (Nancy) Fuehrer and their children, Laura, Paula and Shaunna.

Dianne is preceded in death by her husband, Darrell; parents, Donald and Myrtle; and sister, Carol.

September 26, 1938 ~ September 24, 2026

Charles E. Madison, 87, Brandon, SD, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. Family and friends are invited to gather to remember Charles, share stories, and celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in memory of Charles to the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society.

Charles Edward Madison was born on September 26, 1938, to Orval and Mabel (Josedahl) Madison. He grew up on a farm and in Luverne, MN, where he graduated high school. He later continued his education at St. Cloud State.

In 1964, Charles married Lena Schiebout, and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and community.

Charles enjoyed a remarkable 47-year career at Luverne Truck Equipment, where he worked his way from salesman to senior vice president. He took great pride in his work, the company, and the many relationships he developed over nearly five decades. For Charles, his career was about more than business, it was about people, friendships, and being part of a community.

Outside of work, Charles enjoyed woodworking and projects, taking pride in creating and designing things with his hands. He was also an avid collector of Cub Cadet tractors.

Above all, Charles enjoyed people. He had a natural ability to connect with others, loved a good conversation, and was always ready with a little humor. He had a unique way of expressing himself, and those who knew him will remember his favorite word, “terrible,” which, coming from Charles, often meant something was especially good. Whether describing a great meal or something he particularly enjoyed, a well-placed “terrible” could say it all.

During the early years of retirement, Charles and Lena enjoyed traveling in their motor home, making trips to Arizona and enjoying the adventures along the way. Later in retirement, one of his favorite activities was gathering with friends at the TOK (Table of Knowledge). These get-togethers were filled with conversation, laughter, shared “wisdom”, and good-natured debate. He cherished the friendships and camaraderie around the table. Charles also enjoyed eating out, whether sharing a meal with family, caregivers, or visiting with friends. For him, the company and conversation were often just as enjoyable as the food.

Charles was especially proud of his grandchildren, Savannah and Samuel. They brought him great joy, and he took pride in watching them grow and celebrating their accomplishments. His love for his family was an important part of his life, and his pride in his grandchildren was evident whenever he spoke of them.

Charles is survived by his son, Tom (Jill); his daughter, Tamara; his grandchildren, Savannah and Samuel; and many special cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Charles was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lena; his parents, Orval and Mabel Madison; his brothers, Lloyd (survived by Barb) and Merlin (survived by Peggy); and his sister, Audrey (survived by Ken).

Charles will be remembered for his dedication to his work, his craftsmanship, his love of people, and especially the humor and laughter he brought into the lives of others. His friendships, stories, and the many connections he made throughout his life will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

And if Charles were asked what he thought of a life filled with family, friends, hard work, and laughter, he might simply smile and say, “Terrible.”

November 13, 1939 ~ September 2, 2026

Arlene B. M. Brinkman Hardesty, 86, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Avera McKennan Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

Arlene Betty Marie Brinkman was born on November 13, 1939, in Battle Creek, IA, to Henry and Ella (Schutt) Brinkman. Arlene grew up in Battle Creek where she graduated high school. She moved to Omaha, NE at the age of 17. She first worked at a cookie factory before going to work at Kellogg’s Cereal Company. Her first job at Kellogg’s was to drop the toys into the cereal boxes on the assembly line. Her kids thought that was the best job ever because she would get to bring all the toys home for them. She eventually was promoted to a line mechanic and at the age of 56, after working there for 29 years, she retired from Kellogg’s Cereal Company.

Arlene met her husband, Richard Seymore Hardesty, Sr., in Omaha and they were married for 29 years. Richard died at the age of 55, and Arlene never remarried. Together, they had three children, Sherry Hardesty, Shelly (Brent)Thurness, and Richard (Joyce) Hardesty. Arlene had 5 grandchildren, Chelsie (Chase), Spencer, Cole (Kaylee), Chase, and Emma and just this year, Chelsie and Chase had Marlee, who was Arlene’s first great grand baby.

Arlene moved “quite a bit”, always living close to her children. She built a house on Lake Panorama to live close to Sherry. She then moved to Urbandale, IA, to live closer to Shelly and her 3 grandkids. When Shelly’s family moved to the Black Hills, Arlene went with them to be close to the grandkids. They lived in Rapid City for 11 years. They just recently moved to Sioux Falls, SD and have been here for the past 3 years.

Arlene was full of life and always happy. She was up for anything and always ready to go. Arlene did not miss any event her grandkids were involved with. Cole and Chase played college football and Arlene road-tripped with the family all over Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and South Dakota. She loved watching football and did not miss a game.

Arlene was a twin to Arlin who died at an early age. In these last few months, she spoke of him often and was ready to see him again. She was preceded in death by her mom and dad, Ella and Henry; and her 2 brothers, Walt and Floyd.

December 2, 1935 ~ September 11, 2026

Robert E. Van Roekel, 90, of Brandon, SD, passed away peacefully at his home at Bethany Meadows in Brandon on Friday, September 11, 2026.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Community Reformed Church in Sioux Falls, SD. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to Meals on Wheels or Owen’s Outfitters. To view the service via livestream, click HERE.

Robert Eugene Van Roekel was born on December 2, 1935, in Sioux Center, IA, to Abraham and Martha (Van Wyk) Van Roekel. He attended school in Sioux Center before continuing his education in Beaver Creek, MN. Early in his career, Robert worked at Wood Manufacturing in Luverne, MN, and Hanson Silo Company. He went on to devote 35 years of service to John Morrell & Company in the Beef Fab Department before retiring.

Never one to stay idle, Robert continued working after retirement. He drove a delivery truck for Sturdevant’s Auto Supply from 1989 to 2003 and later spent 22 years delivering vehicles all over the country for Billion Auto. He wrapped up his working years just shy of his 90th birthday.

On June 25, 1955, Robert married the love of his life, Jennie Van Eck, and made their home in Sioux Falls, SD. Together, they celebrated an incredible 71 years of marriage. During 17 years of their retirement, they wintered in Mesa, AZ, where they cherished the warm weather, community activities, and lifelong friendships. In 2017, they moved to a garden home at Bethany Meadows in Brandon, SD.

An avid outdoorsman and enthusiast, Robert lived life to the fullest. He served as president of the Izaak Walton League in Sioux Falls from 1975 to 1976 and directed the trap-shooting league there for 20 years. He was an exceptionally skilled trap shooter, with numerous rounds of 25 straight to his name.

Robert’s passion for hunting and fishing took him on moose hunts in Canada; deer, antelope, and goose hunting trips in western South Dakota; and pheasant hunts throughout eastern South Dakota. He also enjoyed shooting prairie dogs and rattlesnake hunting and used the snake skins to craft custom belts, buckles, and hatbands.

In addition to his outdoors pursuits, Robert was an avid collector. He loved collecting Bicentennial quarters and other coins, as well as maintaining a vast collection of shotgun shells, rifle cartridges, and firearm memorabilia.

Throughout his life, Robert had a love for adventure and mechanics. In his younger years, he played in the church softball league. His lifelong passion for motorcycles included owning classic Indians, Honda Goldwings, and Harleys, and he and Jennie enjoyed motorcycle trips across the country. Together, they also enjoyed camping and four-wheeling in the Black Hills. Robert remained an active bicycle rider well into his late eighties.

Robert also cherished traveling with his family. He, along with his sister, brother, and their spouses, traveled to Holland to visit extended relatives and explore the country’s history, landmarks, and beauty.

Robert’s faith was deeply important to him. He served as a deacon at Community Reformed Church and was also the janitor for the church in its early years when the congregation met in the parsonage. He also faithfully attended men’s Bible study.

Grateful for having shared Robert’s life are his loving wife, Jennie (Van Eck) Van Roekel; his children, Barb (Tom) Schuster of Valley Springs, SD, and Bob (Merry) Van Roekel of Valley Springs, SD; his brothers, Don (Verlys) Van Roekel of Surprise, AZ, and Roger (Mary) Van Roekel of Beaver Creek, MN; four grandchildren, Tom (Sarah) Schuster, Matt (Betsy) Schuster, Josh (Erin) Van Roekel, and Ann (Jake) Varilek; and eight great-grandchildren, TC, Tori (Tom and Sarah), Maya, Ryker (Matt and Betsy), Keegan, Alem (Josh and Erin), Jade, and Asher (Ann and Jake).

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Abraham and Martha Van Roekel; and his sister, Viola Uithoven.

February 15, 1939 ~ September 12, 2026

Peggy Joan Paulson, 87, Brandon, SD, passed away at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Visitation with family present will be held from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home, Brandon, SD. Memorial services will follow at 12:30 p.m. Inurnment will be at 2:30 p.m. at Brandon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Make a Wish of South Dakota in memory of Joan Paulson.

Peggy Joan Christensen, second child of Alton and Mildred (Klein) Christensen, was born just after midnight on February 15, 1939, in Tracy, MN. Her identical twin sister had arrived 50 minutes prior, before midnight, allowing Jean and Joan to be twins with different birthdays. This was just the first of many “mirror image” differences the twins would share throughout their lives.

Joan graduated from Brookings High School in 1957. Following graduation, she attended Gordon and David Beauty School, which would later become Stewart’s, graduating in 1958.

On June 6, 1959, Joan was united in marriage to Loel LeRoy Paulson at First Presbyterian Church in Brookings, SD. This union was blessed with four children: Jodie, Lonnie, Lorrie and Jeanette.

The couple began their lives together in Sioux Falls before Loel’s career moved them to Huron, SD. After six years in Huron, they returned to the Sioux Falls area. They settled in Brandon, where Joan lived for the next 56 years. She used her Beautician license to bring in extra money while she excelled at her primary job of Mom. Joan was a prolific gardener of both flowers and vegetables. She began working outside the home once her youngest child began school. She made many friends over the years through her employment with the Brandon School system, and in Sioux Falls at both American Freight Systems and Charter Hospital. In retirement, Joan enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sporting, musical and school events. She also looked forward to watching her NBA teams, with Steph Curry being one of her favorite players. Joan and Loel spent 15 years wintering in Arizona and volunteered for over 20 years with Make a Wish Foundation of South Dakota.

Joan will be deeply missed by her four children, Jodie (Jay) Holtz, Sioux Falls, SD, Lonnie Paulson and Alice Huth-Derrah, Glendale, AZ, Lorrie Sonnheim, Sioux Falls, SD, and Jeanette (Steve) Reiter, Sioux Falls, SD; seven grandchildren, Shannon (Carl), A.J. (Kelsey), Micah (Alyssa), Brittany (Joey), Seth, Nathan, and Megan; six great-grandchildren, Jeremiah, Genevieve, JayLynn, Ember, Quintin and Kendon; twin sister, Jean Goedde, Goldendale, WA; brother, Jerry (Barbara) Christensen, Pierre, SD; and many special neighbors, relatives and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Loel; her parents, Alton and Mildred; her brother, Dr. Alton Christensen; and brothers-in-law, Merlyn Peterson and Ivo Goedde.

October 19, 1948 ~ September 13, 2026

Joan A. Dean, 77, Ree Heights, SD, died on Sunday, September 13, 2026, in Ree Heights.

Following cremation, Joan’s remains will be laid to rest at Bellevue Cemetery in her hometown of Bellevue, OH. Her family will also gather for a Celebration of Life — a fitting tribute to a woman whose own life was filled with faith, laughter, love, dancing, and a deep desire to help others.

Joan Allison Dean was born on October 19, 1948, in Bellevue, OH, to Marlin Otis and Lorraine Vera (Craven) Dean. Joan lived a life filled with faith, laughter, love, and generosity. She grew up alongside her siblings Charles, Bobby, Terry, and Marlene.

Joan was a devoted mother to Amy, Allison, Matthew, and Emily Saas. To her children, she was not only a mother, but also a best friend, a guide, and a constant source of strength. Her love, example, and influence helped shape the people they became. Her family continued to grow through the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren she loved so dearly.

Those who knew Joan will always remember her unmistakable laugh — that distinct little cackle that could fill a room and make everyone around her laugh right along with her. Her joy was contagious, and that laugh will remain one of the sweetest memories her family carries with them.

Helping others was simply part of Joan’s nature. Whether it was family, a friend, or someone who needed a helping hand, she was the kind of person who would give everything she had if she believed it would help someone she loved. She gave freely, loved deeply, and so often put the needs of others before her own.

Although her absence leaves an emptiness that can never truly be filled, the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the sound of that unforgettable laugh will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Amy Saas who is married to Richard Hastie and mother of Kiarra Hastie, daughter, Allison Bullion who is married to Jeremy Bullion and the mother of Hailey Cain, who is married to Tanner Lee Cain, and Austin Ehlers, son, Matthew Saas who is married to Becky Saas and are the parents of Shane Saas, Joey Saas, and Cody Saas, who is married to Lauren Wheeler Saas. Joan was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Marcy and Hayes, children of Hailey and Tanner, and there is Zayn who literally lived with Joan most of his life.

Joan is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Emily Saas; her parents; and her sister Marlene.

March 22, 1952 ~ September 11, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kathleen “Kathy” L. Asay, Sioux Falls, SD, on Friday, September 11, 2026. She passed peacefully at home, surrounded by her beloved family.

Kathleen Lea was born on March 22, 1952, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Lawrence White and Lucille Gregory. Kathy was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her.

Kathy’s life was a testament to her faith and her unwavering belief in the power of love and redemption. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, she is a citizen of heaven and is now home!!! Kathy would love to see all of you there!!! Call on the name of Jesus, accept him into your heart. Experience the miracle!!! I have. See you again Kathy 🙂

The essence of Kathy was reflected in her simple yet profound question to others, “Are you okay?” This gentle inquiry encapsulated her deep compassion and genuine concern for the well-being of those around her. Her kindness, warmth, and nurturing spirit were a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kathy was a devoted wife to her loving husband, Dave, with whom she shared a beautiful blended family. Kathy’s legacy of love continues through her children, Adam, Brian, and Hannah, as well as Dave’s children, Michelle, Amy, Jami, Tess, David and Christina. Her kindness lives on in the hearts of her brother Mike and her sisters Mary and Susan.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Avera Hospice team, especially Ashley, Kayla, Montgomery, and Cheyenne, whose compassionate care and support provided immense comfort during Kathy’s final days. Your dedication and kindness will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Kathy, we celebrate a life filled with love and faith. Rest in peace, dear Kathy, in the eternal embrace of Jesus Christ!!!