January 5, 1936 ~ April 25, 2025

Joan F. Shipe, 89, Brandon, SD, widow of Raymond George Shipe, peacefully departed this world at home, on Friday, April 25, 2025.

As per their wishes, Joan will be cremated, and she and Raymond’s ashes will be inurned together beside her parents at St. John’s German Lutheran Cemetery in Elizabeth, Minnesota.

Joan Frances Hoffmann was born in Fergus Falls, MN, on January 5, 1936, to Elmer and Frances (Trenne) Hoffmann. She was raised in Fergus Falls, an only child to her parents. She graduated from Fergus Falls High School, and on February 17, 1955, she married Raymond G. Shipe at the Catholic Church in Wahpeton, ND.

Joan stayed home and nurtured their four children, Brenda, Preston, Dawn, and Neil, while Raymond worked as a truck driver and machinist. Joan and Ray lived in Breckenridge, MN for 18 years and then another 24 years in Fergus Falls, MN, before enjoying their retirement with their youngest son, Neil, in Brandon, SD.

Joan and Ray were active choir members of Risen Savior Catholic Church in Brandon. Ray was one of the designers of the beautiful prayer garden beside the church.

Joan is survived by her four children, Brenda Hansen, Staunton, VA, Preston (Betty) Shipe, Haslet, TX, Dawn Lane Mehl, Fargo, ND, and Neil (Leigh) Shipe, Brandon, SD; eight grandchildren, Karen Hansen Arehart and Christopher Gall, Staunton, VA, Tyler Shipe, Minneapolis, MN, Kimberly Black, Keller, TX, Jeszrai Muscha, Fargo, ND, Josiah Mehl, Cape Girardeau, MO, Jordyn Braegelmann, St. Cloud, MN, and Senna Shipe, Brandon, SD; and great-grandchildren, Kaeden Click, John Preston Arehart IV (Jack), Boston Self, Adrian and Elliot Braegelmann, Selah, Millie, and Noah Black, and Clara Mehl.

Joan is preceded in death by her adoring husband, Raymond; and her parents, Elmer and Frances Hoffmann.

January 9, 1954 ~ April 24, 2025

Willa J. Johnson, 71, Garretson, SD, died Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD.

An Open House Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2025, at Tucker and Deanna Bonte’s home at 308 River Ave. in Garretson, SD.

Willa Jean Boyer was born on January 9, 1954, in West Virginia to William and Jean (Palmer) Boyer. She grew up in Martinsburg and graduated from Martinsburg High School in June of 1971.

In September of 1971, Willa married Donald E. Johnson. They were blessed with 5 children. They moved around the United States for the first few years of their marriage. They eventually settled on an acreage in Valley Springs, SD.

Willa attended Nettleton College and graduated with an Associate of Science of Paralegal Degree. She worked various jobs throughout her life. Willa worked as a paralegal in a law office for a few years. She then changed course and went into customer service at Citibank until she retired in 2016.

In her retirement, she enjoyed thrift store shopping, reading, baking, and spending time with her family, especially her great-granddaughter Oaklynn Maye, who she was asking for until the very end.  

Willa was a woman whose life was a testament to love, strength, and quiet grace. She was a mother of five, but to so many more, she was a safe place, a listening ear, and a steady hand. Her strength carried her family through life’s hardest moments, and her love was the foundation that held everything together.

Willa gave her all to her children, raising each one with patience, wisdom, and a heart full of unconditional love. She led by example, showing them how to face the world with dignity, care for others, and stay true to what matters most: family, kindness, and faith.

Eric will be bringing her home to the rolling hills of West Virginia, where she will be laid to rest near her beloved parents. It is a return not just to her roots, but to the peace and beauty of the place that helped shape the remarkable woman she became.

Although we grieve, we also celebrate. We celebrate a life that mattered deeply, and a love that touched us all.

Willa is survived by her son, Eric (Kelli) Johnson, Valley Springs, SD; daughters, Amy Johnson Stassen, Valley Springs, SD, Michele Johnson, Valley Springs, SD, Tammy Webb, Sioux Falls, SD, and Deanna (Tucker) Bonte, Garretson, SD; grandchildren, Jake, Alex, Logan, Lane, Shyanne, Chloe, Nealy, Rylea, Parker, Caitlin, Dusty, Brock, Cody, and Kailyn; special grandson-in-law, Trevor Iverson; great-grandchildren, Oaklynn Maye, Drew, and two more on the way; and her brother, William Boyer II.

Willa was preceded in death by her parents, William and Jean Boyer.

September 28, 1975 ~ April 1, 2025

Derrod R. Mathison, 49, Sioux Falls, SD, died after a brief illness on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

No services are planned. Cards and well wishes may be sent to Querida Fisher, at 905 W. 18^th St. #20, Sioux Falls, SD 57103, or Megan Mathison, at 1938 E. 33^rd St. N. Apt. 1, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.

Derrod was born on September 28, 1975, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Eugene and Judy (Stoppleworth) Mathison. He married Megan Bunger on April 21, 2012, in Sioux Falls.

Derrod was a gentle giant and was 6’8” when he finally stopped growing, much to the chagrin of his older brothers and father, who were all much shorter. He had a heart of gold and a very inquisitive mind and enjoyed learning. He enjoyed many hobbies which included reading fantasy novels, playing video and table games, and he was a passionate Green Bay Packers fan. He loved the Blues, and science-fiction, especially Star Trek and Star Wars movies and novels. He worked in the food service industry in his teen years, several call centers, the Argus Leader, and then as a food shopper and delivery person.

Derrod loved his two canine companions, Henry and Solomon, and mourned the loss of his dear Leia in 2021. He loved his dogs and would be happy to know they have found loving homes that will continue to care for them.

Derrod is survived by his wife, Megan Mathison, Sioux Falls; brothers, Mark, Great Falls, MT, Matthew, Raymand, MN, and Luke of Wabasso, MN; sisters, Rachelle (Philip) Graff, Sanborn, MN, Querida (Sweet) Fisher, Sioux Falls, and Kacelle (Benjamin) Duran, Sioux Falls; uncles, Larry, Gary, and Dale; aunt, Susan; many nieces, nephews, cousins; and dear friend, Jeremy Chouinard.

Derrod was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Judy Mathison; and sister, Cametra Mathison.

December 5, 1988 ~ April 1, 2025

Megan L. Ageton, 36, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, surrounded by her loving family.

A Celebration of Life Open House will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Heartland Funeral Home, Brandon, SD, with a Funeral Service beginning at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support Megan’s children. An account has been established at First Premier Bank under the care of Todd and Ginger Ageton.

You can view the service at 6:30pm via livestream by clicking HERE.

Megan was born on December 5, 1988, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Todd and Ginger Williamson-Ageton. She attended Brandon Valley schools and graduated in 2007. Megan’s deep love for God, art, and music infused every aspect of her life. A gifted writer and a creative spirit, her passion found its truest expression in motherhood. Megan was a devoted fiancé to Zach and together they cherished their five beautiful children: Harper (15), Eden (10), Irelyn (8), Noah (7), and Brock (3). Her nurturing spirit and love for art were beautifully intertwined in activities like gardening and painting, which she shared joyfully with her children.

For 36 years, Megan’s vibrant red hair and radiant smile lit up the lives of those around her. She was headstrong, determined, and endlessly resilient – qualities that defined not only who she was, but also how she faced her three-year battle with breast cancer, fighting with fierce courage and unwavering strength.

Megan is survived by her fiancé, Zach Waagmeester; her beloved children, Harper, Eden, Irelyn, Noah, and Brock; parents, Todd and Ginger Ageton; two sisters, Mallory Ballinger (Molly Womack), and Marissa Ageton; grandparents, Betty and Marlo Winter; step-grandmother, Darlene Jones; numerous loving uncles, aunts, and cousins; and cherished family members including, Linda and Kenny Waagmeester, Tina (Kelly), Crystal (Brad), and Michael (Theresa).

Megan is proceeded in death by her grandparents, Roger and Burnice Ageton, and Arlen Williamson; and two very special aunts, Cheryl Stuhldreher, and Amy Van Wagner.

April 26, 1938 ~ March 18, 2025

Ernest “Ernie” W. Swier, 86, Brandon, SD, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Dougherty Hospice in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5-7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Heritage Lutheran Church in Brandon, SD. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30am on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, also at Heritage Lutheran Church.

Ernest “Ernie” Wayne Swier was born on April 26, 1938, in Humboldt, SD to Walter and Dorothy (VanderLugt) Swier. He graduated from Colton High School and South Dakota State University where he majored in Animal Science.

While a college student, Ernie was united in marriage to Wilma Jo Berdahl on August 1, 1958. Ernie and Jo were proud parents to Scott, Chad, and Kelli. Family was the greatest joy in their lives.

The family moved to an acreage outside of Corson in 1971 and established Dakota Ridge Simmentals. This led the family to be very active in 4H where they enjoyed the Minnehaha County and South Dakota State Fair with the many friends they made. Ernie was also a past President of the South Dakota Simmental Association.

Ernie was active in civic organizations including Treasurer of the Brandon Township Board for 12 years and a founding member of the Brandon Optimist Club. He was proud of the Optimist Club’s diligence and support, which helped him receive the Distinguished President award in 1980 for the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Manitoba District.

Vocationally, Ernie served in the South Dakota Air National Guard for 8 years. He worked as a cattle buyer for 10 years before becoming part owner of Dakota Livestock at the Sioux Falls Stock Yards. After leaving the stockyards in 1986, Ernie became a private cattle order buyer. In 1992, Ernie began a new career as a home builder, cabinet maker, and highly skilled self-taught woodworker. His business, Country Woodshed, was in demand for customer furniture and finishings. His beautiful creations can be found in homes, businesses, and churches.

In addition to providing facility improvements and building furniture for churches, Ernie built relationships and provided leadership at Brandon Lutheran for 40 years. He and Jo became founding members of Heritage Lutheran where they enjoyed volunteering, bible studies, and serving on the board.

Ernie loved sunrises, sunsets, fishing, gardening, target shooting, wood carving, and wood burning. Most of all he loved his family.

Grateful for having shared Ernie’s life are his children, Scott (Kristi) Swier, Chad (Kara) Swier, and Kelli (Daryl) Mitzel; grandchildren, Riley (Kristine) Swier, Cody (Chelsey) Swier, Kaylee (Quinn Odenthal) Swier, Brady (Cameron) Swier, Schuyler Swier, Hannah Swier, Spencer Swier, Hailey (Kody) Derosier, and Mason (Alexus Wallenberg) Mitzel; great grandchildren, Orah, Eliza, Noah, Wesley, Brooklyn, Ruby, Forrest, Rory, Renlee, and Ivey; sister, Grace Farr; and sister-in-law, Donna Swier.

Ernie was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma Jo Swier; his parents, Walter & Dorothy Swier; brothers, Rich (Catherine) Swier, Will (Alida) Swier, Pete (Dottie) Swier, John (LaDonna) Swier, Roger Swier, and Dennis Swier; sisters, Betty (Frank) Immeker, and Rosie Chiesa; and brother-in-law, Alvin Farr.

June 11, 1983 ~ March 7, 2025

Scott I. Wentler, 41, Valley Springs, SD, died on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Sioux Falls.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD, with a time of sharing beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Scott Isaac Wentler was born on June 11, 1983, in Luverne, MN, to Lawrence Jr. and Shirley (Vogel) Wentler. He was baptized in the Christian faith at Bethel Reformed Church in Leota, MN. In his youth, he was a member at Luverne Christian Reformed Church. He attended school and received his education in Luverne.

As a kid, Scott played hockey for several years. As soon as he was able to hold a pencil and draw, the world became his canvas. Drawing and painting were part of his daily life. Transitioning this skill to the skin was a natural choice as he entered adulthood. His profession soon became a tattoo artist. He was known as ‘The MaddTatter.’

When Scott’s daughter, Lucy, became a part of his life, his primary purpose here on earth was to guide and care for her. He was a fiercely loving and dedicated father. The only person he truly had unwavering patience for was Lucy. He took great pleasure in teaching her in the arts of music, drawing, and painting. Scott loved being a dad.

Scott was a loyal and dedicated friend to those who had the honor of knowing him. He was an extremely spiritual person. He was always exploring and strengthening his faith. Scott had a very creative mind. He was able to take what someone could picture in their mind for a tattoo design and put it down on paper. He would then create their personal tattoo which would always exceed their expectations.

Scott was a lover of music, of all kinds, in both listening and creating. He had such passion and drive. If he put his mind to something, he would find a way to get it done. Scott was strong-willed, and not afraid to stand for what he believed in. Even if those beliefs were not what the majority believed. His other love in life was riding his motorcycle.

Scott left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Scott is survived by his daughter, Lucy Amielya Lynde; mother and stepfather, Shirley and Stu Oines; brother, Lance Wentler; sister, Heidi (Spencer Witte) Syslo; nieces, Archie and Ari Syslo, Katelin Schroeder, and Faith Taylor; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Scott was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Wentler Jr.; grandparents, Peter and Ellen Vogel, Lawrence Wentler and Roberta DuCharme Wentler.

July 31, 1944 ~ March 8, 2025

Thomas “Tom” V. Miller, 80, Larchwood, IA, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Bethany Home in Brandon, SD. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and man of unwavering faith, Tom lived his life with purpose, integrity, and a deep appreciation for God’s creation.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at First Evangelical Free Church, 2601 W. 69^th St., Sioux Falls, SD. Funeral Services will be 11:00am, Friday, March 14, 2025, also at First Evangelical Free Church followed by Interment at Grandview Covenant Cemetery, Larchwood, IA, with full military honors. You may view the service by clicking HERE.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Compassion Child Care, Sioux Falls, honoring Tom’s lifelong commitment to faith and service.

Tom was born on July 31, 1944, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Elmer Sr. and Colette (Brennan) Miller. Tom grew up in Brandon, SD, alongside his brother, Elmer Jr., attending and graduating from Brandon High School. His love of hard work and adventure began early—he started farming as a young boy, and by age 18, he set out to pursue a lifelong dream: sailing on a submarine.

In March 1963, Tom enlisted in the United States Navy, training as a nuclear reactor operator for submarines. While stationed in Chicago, he met the love of his life, Carol Lundberg, in June 1963. On their second date, she shared her homemade chocolate chip cookies, and that was it—he was in love. They married in October 1964 and soon moved to Idaho Falls, ID, where Tom trained in—and later instructed—the operation of nuclear reactors like the ones used on submarines.

While stationed in Idaho Falls, Tom and Carol welcomed their first son, Chris, in 1966. The family moved frequently for his naval assignments, and their second son, Tim, was born in Newport News, VA, in 1967. During his time in the Navy, Tom was assigned to the USS Ethan Allen out of New London, CT, serving in the engine room and completing tours in oceans around the world. After six years of honorable service, he left the Navy in January 1969 and transitioned to civilian life, continuing his work with reactor operations for Idaho Nuclear in Pocatello, ID.

In 1972, Tom returned to the Midwest to join Miller Loaders, a manufacturing business in Granite, IA, founded by his father. There, he used his engineering mind and problem-solving skills to design front-end plate loaders and buckets, making an impact in the industry for years to come. After settling back in Larchwood, IA, Tom and Carol welcomed their third son, Matt, in 1977, completing their family. In 1996, his son Tim followed in his footsteps, joining Miller Loaders as Lead Design Engineer, carrying on the family legacy of innovation in manufacturing.

Tom was a man of many passions, but his love for motorcycles stood above the rest. He raced dirt bikes well into his 70s, riding with a close-knit group of friends who traveled around the Midwest to explore new trails and roads. He and Carol also toured across the U.S. and Canada, first on their touring motorcycle, and later with their camper trailer, embracing the beauty of God’s creation in the mountains, plains, and everything in between. No matter where they traveled, their bicycles were always with them, and they especially loved exploring Minnesota’s scenic bicycle trails together. He was an expert marksman and avid outdoorsman, embarking on unforgettable hunting trips in Montana and Alaska. Whether camping with his boys, riding the open road, or exploring the great outdoors, Tom’s adventurous spirit never faded.

Above all, Tom’s faith in God guided his life. He gave his heart to the Lord and lived out his faith through his actions more than his words. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and devotion, whose quiet testament to God’s love inspired all who knew him.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Carol; his sons, Chris (Lisa), Tim (Shelly), and Matt; his grandchildren, Alex (Anastasiia), Austin, Derek, and Julia Miller; his sisters-in-law, Linnea (John) Dunn and Diane Miller; nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Sr. and Colette (Brennan) Miller; parents-in-law, Karl and Marjorie (Tobolt) Lundberg; and his brother, Elmer Jr. (Sonny).

A special thank you to the staff at Bethany Home in Brandon, SD, for ensuring that Tom’s final days were filled with dignity, care, and love.

“I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.” – Psalm 16:8

February 24, 1959 ~ March 5, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Scott “Scotty” R. Rishovd, age 66, of Sioux Falls, SD, who left us on March 5, 2025, at the Doughtery Hospice House.

Scott “Scotty” Robert Rishovd was born on February 24, 1959, in Minnesota to Robert and Dorothy (Hansen) Rishovd. Scott was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend who touched the lives of many with their kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit.

Scott grew up with a passion for motorcycles and machinery. He always took a keen interest in diesel engines, tinkering, and having the wind on his face. He had a thirst for knowledge and trying new things. As a father, he spent time with his son building model airplanes, fishing, repairing cars, working on motorcycles, and passing on learned knowledge. As a husband, he enjoyed road trips with his wife, the occasional trip to try his luck, and most of all, his wife’s cooking. In a marriage that spanned many decades, it is safe to say he was blessed man and fortunate to have spent so much time with his loving wife. To his friends, Scott was a mentor and always willing to lend a hand. Scott was a man of pure heart. He touched people’s lives and those who knew him would tell you no different. This world could do with more men like him.

Scott is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Matthew; and sister, Julie.

This family mourns for him and will forever cherish the memories of their time together. Scott’s legacy and spirit will continue to inspire all those who knew him.

Rest in peace. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

September 6, 1964 ~ February 16, 2025

Timothy “Tim” J. Alberstein, 60, Sioux Falls, SD, died Sunday, February 16, 2025, at his home.

Services will be held in Visalia at a later date.

Tim left us too soon. Tim grew up in Visalia, CA, the middle child to the blended Alberstein-Mathis family. He attended Mount Whitney High School where he ran cross country and was a member of Sea Scouts. He attended Menlo College in Atherton, CA. His creative and analytical mind fed his ability to work in the telecommunications industry.

Tim was a leader at AA where he mentored others. A lifelong Trekkie and Spock fan, Tim had a dry sense of humor, a warm smile, and a keen wit. His proudest achievement was being a father. Tim was a friend to many, beloved brother, son, and boyfriend to Jessica Duna.

Tim is survived by his children, Rob, Scott, and Ainsley; mother, Susan Alberstein; siblings, Laurie (Brad) Mathis Martin, Greg (Sheri) Mathis, Terry Alberstein, and Christa (Richard) Alberstein Smith; and extended family.

Tim is preceded in death by his father, Jay Alberstein; and grandparents.

June 25, 1933 ~ February 18, 2025

Darlene R. Petersen, 91, Brandon, SD, passed on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Bethany Home in Brandon, SD.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30am on Friday, February 28, 2025 at Brandon Lutheran Church, Brandon, SD. You can view the Funeral Service by clicking HERE.

Darlene Rae Henley was born on June 25, 1933, in Carson, ND to Oliver and Rosina (Tibke) Henley. Her family moved to Hayti, SD at the request of a friend who asked her dad to come and work in the grocery store. Darlene worked in the grocery store as a young lady as well.

Darlene started school in Hayti, graduating in 1951. She then moved on to General Beadle Teacher’s College where she found a job teaching at a country school.

Darlene married Jim Petersen on June 7, 1952, in Hayti, after meeting him in first grade. Once married, they moved to Sioux Falls where Jim worked for Morrells for 37 years. Darlene worked for a time in admissions at Sioux Valley Hospital. Over the years, Darlene had several part-time jobs including church secretary, sales at Richman-Gordmans, when they opened in Sioux Falls, and much volunteer work, most notably at the front desk in Avera’s Prairie Center.

For Darlene, during their over 50 years of living in Brandon, volunteering at Brandon Lutheran Church by helping with the annual lefse baking was a real highlight. Sewing, knitting, and crocheting for her family were ever present projects.

Darlene’s family will tell you that painting ceramics in her basement was so much fun with any visit. Darlene taught ceramic painting in her basement for several years before moving on to China painting. She was a very accomplished artist and loved giving away her masterpieces.

Darlene and Jim were blessed with four children, Lynne (Mark) Erickson, Valley Springs, SD, Mark (Della Weise) Petersen, Brandon, SD, Todd (Patty) Petersen, Sioux Falls, SD, and Beth (Chris Price) Lynn, Bruce, SD; nine grandchildren, Megan (Jon) Knutson, Nichole (Trev) Fletcher, Nathan (Hannah) Erickson, Cody (Abbey) Erickson, Zach (Michelle) Petersen, Melanie (Lucas Bartolme’ Gil) Petersen, Erin (Sam) Berg, Lacey Lynn and Lexy Lynn; ten great-grandchildren, Elise, Caitlyn, Tristyn, Annastyn, Keller, Mason, Savannah, Rosie, Marigold, and Shiloh; siblings, Garney (Charlotte) Henley, Huron, SD, and DiAnn Kothe, Sioux Falls; and many nieces, nephews, good friends, and neighbors.

Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; daughter, Robin Petersen; great-granddaughter, Kinsley Erickson; her parents, Oliver and Rosina; brother Harold Henley; sister-in-law, Janice Henley; and brother-in-law, Larry Kothe.