June 18, 1941 ~ December 27, 2024

Beverly A. Edmundson, 83, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully, while surrounded by her closest loved ones, on Friday, December 27, 2024, after a cancer diagnosis.

Per Beverly’s request, no services will be held.

Beverly Audrey Edmondson was born on June 18, 1941, in Massachusetts, to Edmund and Antoinette “Audrey” (Fairhurst) Burl. She lived in Millbury, MA for the first twenty years of her life. She had a very close relationship with her mother Audrey, sharing that she was her strongest inspiration and referring to her as her best friend.

Beverly moved to California with her son Mark, in her early twenties, with her mother and father following soon behind. Beverly lived there until her cancer diagnosis in November 2024. She spent the final days of her life in South Dakota with her daughter-in-law and three youngest grandchildren.

Beverly was very active in the Elks and was the first woman Exalted Ruler of her lodge. She was also involved in the Rotary and the Alpha Charter Guild. She was thankful for the close friendships she made through these organizations as well as from the years working at Kaiser Permanente. She wanted you to know that you were all very special to her.

Beverly loved to sing and one of our cherished memories of her is of her singing Christmas carols and her favorite song, Honey’, by Bobby Goldsboro.

Beverly will be deeply missed by her daughter-in-law, Ruba (Haddad) Petka; grandchildren, Nicholas, Edward, Mia, and Melissa; great-grandchild, Gentry; second mother, Donna (Erickson) Burl; sister, Brenda (Roger) Combs; and two nieces, Antoinette L. Dinsdale, and Samantha B. Roy.

Beverly was preceded in death by her son, Mark Don Petka; father, Edmund G. Burl; mother, Antoinette “Audrey” Burl; and niece, April Dawn Combs.

August 27, 1945 ~ December 7, 2024

Barry L. Baum, 79, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the VA Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

Barry Lynn Baum was born on August 27, 1945, in Huron, SD to Orville and Audrey (Peterson) Baum.

After serving his country in the United States Navy, Barry dedicated his life to what he truly loved, auto body repair. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Barry is survived by his son, Troy; granddaughter, Sierra (Garett); siblings, Randy (Connie), Marsha (Ron), Marla, Sheri, and Marcy; and several nieces and nephews.

February 14, 1986 ~ December 13, 2024

Sean A. Fischl, 38, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2024.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

A proud Army veteran, Sean served his country honorably, including a tour in Iraq. While he made his home in South Dakota, where he found a chosen family, his heart and soul remained in the majestic mountains of Colorado, a place he truly loved.

Sean was a gentle, kind, and compassionate soul who brought light and love to all who knew him. He loved with his whole heart, cherishing his family and friends deeply. He adored his nephews, Adrian and Elijah, as if they were his brothers, and held a special place in his heart for his niece, Zoe.

Sean enriched the lives of everyone he encountered, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness. His loss leaves us forever changed. He will be deeply missed and eternally remembered.

Sean is survived by his devoted mother, Deborah Peterson; his loving sisters, Brandy Fischl and Tatiana Zecher; his cherished nephews and niece; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

August 24, 1930 ~ December 25, 2024

Bonnie B. Krochock, 94, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls after a courageous battle with cancer.

In keeping with Bonnie’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. Her children will scatter her remains in the waters of Lake Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bonnie’s memory to the American Cancer Society.

Bonnie Backman was born on August 24, 1930, in Murdo, SD to Adolph and Bessie (Brookens) Backman. Bonnie was raised in a family that instilled in her a strong sense of community and purpose. She graduated from Washington High School in Sioux Falls before earning her degree in Pharmacy from South Dakota State University.

Bonnie worked as a pharmacist at a time when the profession was dominated by men…making her accomplishment even more impressive. While working at a pharmacy in Vermillion, South Dakota, Bonnie met her loving husband, David Krochock. They were united in marriage on December 19, 1955, and went on to raise a loving family together. Over the years, Bonnie and David lived in several states, including Minnesota, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, before returning to Sioux Falls, to enjoy their retirement years.

Bonnie was a devoted volunteer, offering her time to various activities, especially those involving her children. She was an active leader in both Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts, helping to shape the lives of young people in the community. After retiring, Bonnie continued her service by volunteering at the Sioux Falls Library, where she lovingly repaired book bindings, and with the Sioux Falls Symphony, where her love of the arts was a perfect match for the organization.

A gifted artist, Bonnie, had a deep passion for needlework and sewing. She created beautiful garments, holiday crafts, decorative wall hangings, and most recently, intricate quilts that her family will treasure as a lasting legacy of her love and creativity.

Bonnie’s kindness, creativity, and dedication to her family and community will be forever remembered by all who knew her.

Bonnie is survived by her four children, Ruth, Alan, Steven, and Russell.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, David, in 2014.

September 11, 1938 ~ December 21, 2024

Wilma “Jo” Swier, 86, Brandon, SD, passed away with family by her side, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Bethany Lutheran Home, in Brandon, SD.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 9:30am, Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Heritage Lutheran Church, Brandon, with a funeral service beginning at 11:00am. Interment will be at Brandon Lutheran Cemetery. To watch the funeral service, click HERE.

Wilma “Jo” Berdahl was born on September 11, 1938, in Colton, SD, to William and Clara (Berg) Berdahl. Born on her father’s 40^th birthday and his namesake, Wilma Jo, was raised in Colton where she went to school with the boy who became the love of her life, Ernie Swier.

After attending Augustana College for a year, she transferred to South Dakota State and the young couple married on August 1, 1958. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics Education, Jo taught in Lyons and Colton for a few years before moving to Rock Rapids, IA.

Once becoming a mom and moving to Sioux Falls, Jo focused her many talents on caring for their three children. In 1971, the family moved to an acreage that they named Dakota Ridge, located outside of Brandon/Corson. They raised Simmental cattle, had expansive gardens, and were extensively involved with 4-H where she served as a leader for the Mapleton Hustlers for many years. Jo was active in church and served joyfully. Larger family gatherings were a highlight of Christmas traditions in her home that made the holidays feel magical. Her creative skills were expressed through hobbies, and she created many treasured gifts. Jo returned to working outside the home at Dayton’s department store and then as a bank teller for 18 years, retiring in 2001 from First National Bank.

Jo and Ernie enjoyed being grandparents, providing care and traveling to see the kids’ events. She always brought meals, usually lasagna, family favorite baked goods and lots of love to share. Her faith, beautiful smile, infectious giggle, and quiet strength will be treasured by all blessed to be loved by her.

Thankful to have shared her life, Jo is survived by her husband of 66 years, Ernie Swier; three children, Scott (Kristi), Chad (Kara), and Kelli (Daryl) Mitzel; nine grandchildren, Riley Swier, Cody Swier, Kaylee Swier, Brady Swier, Schuyler Swier, Hannah Swier, Spencer Swier, Hailey (Mitzel) Derosier, and Mason Mitzel; nine great-grandchildren; and sister, Bev Skrovig of Colton.  

Jo is preceded in death by her parents, William and Clara Berdahl; and sisters, Marilyn Kluter, Darlene Sheddan, and Cleone Foster.

October 29, 1956 ~ December 14, 2024

Barbara “Barb” A. Zobrist, 68, Brandon, SD, passed away comfortably, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Dougherty Hospice House, after experiencing a sudden and insurmountable medical event.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2pm on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home. The service may be viewed online by clicking HERE.

Barb always appreciated the work done by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and her family is thankful for the care she received at the Dougherty Hospice House. Please consider a donation to either of these wonderful organizations in her honor.

Barbara Alice Birath was born on October 29, 1956, in Brookings, SD, to Harry and Mardella (Smith) Birath. She was their only daughter and was born on her parents’ wedding anniversary, making it the best gift they ever received.

Barb moved to Lake Preston before starting high school. She was initially upset by the move because there was no swim team for her to join, despite the school mascot ironically being The Divers. However, she ended up making life-long friends among her class of 32 people.

Barb married Doug Zobrist in 1987 and was blessed with two daughters from that union.

Barb held a variety of interesting jobs during her life but her years as a florist were most notable as she had a passion for flowers and a gift for arranging and caring for them. She worked for many years at Citibank where she again made life-long friends.

Barb loved swimming, being in the sun, reading, house plants, correcting people’s grammar, and all her family and friends. She was known for being accepting, warm, and fun-loving. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh.

Barb is survived by her daughters, Mara Zobrist, and Sarah Goth; three grandchildren, Caspian Goth, and Theobella and Leif Larson; brothers, Bob, Dick, and Tom Birath; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Mardella Birath.

December 14, 1947 ~ December 9, 2024

Rex W. Reed, 76, Rock Rapids, IA, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 9, 2024, at home, just days shy of his 77th birthday.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Rex Wayne Reed was born on December 14, 1947, in Pine Lawn, MO, to Chester & Dean (Brownell) Reed.

Rex was a proud veteran, serving four years in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1971. After his service, he dedicated his career to the Veteran’s Administration before retiring. On July 13, 1970, Rex married the love of his life, Sharon “Shari” (Snitselaar) Reed. Their love story began on the Demolay dance floor and continued for 54 beautiful years. He never missed kissing Shari goodnight – a testament to their enduring bond.

Rex was a man of many passions and talents. He cherished playing his treasured 1968 Martin guitar, which he had dreamed of owning and saved up to purchase at the age of 22. He found joy in fishing, rock hunting, woodworking, yard work, and tinkering in his garage. His workbench was a hub of creativity where he spent countless hours crafting trinkets and fixing odds and ends. Known for his sharp wit and humor, Rex was a master of puns and practical jokes. His laugh was as contagious as his love for life.

Rex’s love for science fiction movies was unmatched – there wasn’t one he hadn’t seen. Those who knew him fondly remember his humor, warmth, and unwavering love for his family. May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A devoted family man, Rex is survived by his wife, Shari; his daughters, Brandi Reed, and Erin Reed; his grandchildren, Taylor Bogue, Sierra Reed, Alix Reed, and Tyler Bogue; his brother, Randy Boone; and his beloved canine companion, Sophie.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Chester & Dean Reed; his brother, Michael Reed; and his loyal dog, Webster.

August 19, 1964 ~ December 2, 2024

James “Jim” B. Anderson, 60, Brandon, SD, passed away suddenly on Monday, December 2, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be 4-4:40 pm, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. A Prayer Service will begin at 4:40 pm.

James “Jim” Boyd Anderson was born on August 19, 1964, in Sioux Falls, to Jimmy and MaryAnn (Pennington) Anderson. He then lived in Oklahoma and Arkansas before happily returning to Sioux Falls and graduating from Washington High School.

Jim dedicated much of his career to driving semi-trucks, transporting everything from propane and fuel to building materials, mail, and agricultural goods. In his free time, he and his father enjoyed crafting concrete birdbaths, animal figurines, and urns, combining skill and creativity in their shared passion.

Grateful for sharing his life are his wife, Patricia; his daughter, Crystal (Tim) Myers; grandchildren Berkley and Evan; along with many other relatives and friends.

April 15, 1940 ~ November 26, 2024

Frederick “Fred” A. Finch Sr., 84, Crooks, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Dougherty Hospice House.

Fred’s Celebration of Life will be 5-7:00 pm, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon with a Prayer Service beginning at 6:45 pm. A private family burial will be held at the Brandon Cemetery, Brandon, SD.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Sioux Falls Humane Society.

Frederick “Fred” Albert Finch Sr. was born on April 15, 1940, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Dan Frank and Dorothy Katherine Finch.

Fred had a diverse career working as a diesel mechanic, truck and trailer salesman, and truck driver. He had a passion for dancing, listening to country music, tinkering in the garage where he enjoyed repairing small engines, and being a smart a$$. Fred was a devoted father, husband, grandfather, and friend to all who knew him.

Fred is survived by his children: Brian, Reed (Tonna), Jodi, Jeff, and Fred, Jr.; his siblings, Kathy (Harry) Sorlie, Jeanne Verley, Mary (Roger) VanRoekel, and Deane (Vicki) Finch; and many loving grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon; his son, Greg; his parents, Dan and Dorothy; and his brothers, Dan, Bob, and Jim.

The family extends a special thank you to Dougherty Hospice House for their loving care and support, as well as to Heartland Funeral Home for handling the arrangements.

August 20, 1943 ~ November 8, 2024

Lynn J. Schrick, 81, Sioux Falls, SD, died Friday, November 8, 2024, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

Per Lynn’s wishes, no services are planned at this time.

Lynn Jeanine Knutson was born on August 20, 1943, in Hudson, SD, to Milford & Eva (Ausen) Knutson. She grew up on a farm south of Newton Hills. She graduated from Canton High School in 1961. She moved to Sioux Falls after high school.

On November 19, 1966, Lynn began a new chapter in her life when she married Dale Schrick. Together, they welcomed their son, Todd, in December of 1968. She built a fulfilling career, working for Production Credit and later contributing to various businesses throughout the years.

Lynn found joy in pampering herself, whether it was a hair appointment or manicure, and could always turn a shopping trip into an adventure. Alongside her fiancé, David Tvedt, Lynn loved exploring the backroads of South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa, always seeking out the local haunts and hidden gems that each state and small town held.

Lynn’s family would like to thank the staff at Avera Heart Hospital and Avera ICU for their excellent care and service.

Lynn is survived by her fiancé, David Tvedt, Sioux Falls, SD; son, Todd (Susan) Schrick, Sioux Falls; grandsons, Jordan, Wall Lake, and Travis, Sioux Falls; sister-in-laws, Marcia Knutson, Elk Point and Lori Molan, Viborg; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Lynn is preceded in death by her parents, Milford & Eva Knutson; and brothers, Rod Knutson and Roger Knutson.