April 22, 1970 ~ December 2, 2024

Marnie G. Mitchell, 54, Sioux Falls, passed away at her home on Monday, December 2, 2024. 

A Celebration of Life will be 5-7pm, Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home, with a short Service at 6:30pm. Interment will be 11am, Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Plainview Cemetery, rural Brentford, SD.

Marnie Grace Mitchell was born on April 22, 1970, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Rick and Sylvia (Bebo) Mitchell. Marnie graduated from Doland High School in 1988.  Upon graduation, she attended Stewart School of Hairstyling in Aberdeen, SD. After working in hairstyling for some time, Marnie found her real passion as a caregiver, working as a CNA, then furthered her career as an LPN, after receiving her education from Lake Area Technical Institute, in Watertown, SD. In later years, Marnie worked as a bartender and cook at various locations and most recently she was the “meal maker extraordinaire” at Inspire Daycare in Tea, SD.  

Marnie was married to Shane Fortin and from this union, Matthew was born and Shane adopted Sam.  Her boys were the light of her life. Marnie would give the shirt off her back to see that others had what they needed and help in any way that she could. She had countless friends that she met through her schooling, work, and playing darts. She had a knack for arts and crafts, but her favorite was painting.  Marnie always claimed she inherited this talent from her very cherished Grandma Grace. Marnie was an avid reader and loved many of her Netflix series. 

Marnie is survived by her children, Sam (Kailey) Mitchell, Harrisburg, and Matthew Fortin, Doland; her beloved granddaughter, Layla Grace; her mom, Sylvia Bebo, Tea; siblings, Marvin (Denise) Mitchell, Redfield, and Roberta “Bobbi Pat” Hindberg, Tea; and step-brother, Danny Stickler, FL; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Marnie was preceded in death by her father, Richard “Rick” Mitchell; step-father, Doug Stickler; grandparents, Marvin “Chappy” and Grace Bebo, grandpa, Robert Mitchell, Sr; and step-brother, Doug “Bubba” Stickler. 

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.

July 19, 1957 ~ November 20, 2024

Randy E. Oien, 67, Sioux Falls, passed away on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be 5-6:30 pm, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. Funeral Services will begin at 6:30 pm. Burial will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, rural Spencer, SD.

Randy E. Oien was born on July 19, 1957, in Dell Rapids, SD, to Otto and Bernice (Nyhus) Oien. He attended school in Baltic and Dell Rapids, where he graduated. Randy married Kimberly Gukeisen on April 15, 2007, and together, they shared 18+ years of magical love while residing in Sioux Falls.

Randy held numerous jobs throughout his life but worked at RL Insulation for 22 years. He had many interests, including throwing darts, watching basketball, and cheering for the Green Bay Packers. However, his greatest joy came from attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and spending time with family. Randy also enjoyed working on puzzles, and seeing his grandchildren gathered around the table, each with a puzzle piece in hand, always brought a radiant smile to his face.

Randy was a quiet, hardworking man with a kind and gentle spirit. He was always unselfish and cared deeply for everyone around him.

Randy is survived by his wife, Kim Oien, Sioux Falls; his children, Jesse (Paige) Oien,  Sioux Falls, Melissa (Sunny) Dahn, Surprise, AZ, Nicole (Kevin) Fultz, Wittmann, AZ, and Justin Hoffman, Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Ciana, Lilianna, Channing, Trenton, Lincoln, Samielia, Brennley, Cameron, Aubrielle, and Micaiah; two sisters, Vicky Myran, Sioux Falls and Marcy (Dave) Linton, Baltic, SD; and by many other relatives and friends.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Bernice Oien;  and brothers, Terry Oien, AZ, and Ritchie Oien, Baltic, SD.

July 22, 1946 ~ November 20, 2024

Charlotte “Char” A. Rottluff, 78, Alcester, died Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at the Alcester Care Center, after a prolonged illness.

A visitation will be held 1-3pm, Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home, with a short service beginning at 2:30pm. Inurnment will be at a later date at St Andreas cemetery in Oldham, SD.

Charlotte “Char” Ardell Nelson was born July 22, 1946, to Irene Nelson near Irwin, SD. She grew up with her mother on the family farm north of De Smet, SD. She also spent much time with Grandma Lillie and Grandpa Carl, who lived nearby.

Charlotte graduated from Erwin High School in 1964 and attended business school in Huron, SD. She worked as a secretary and at other jobs while raising her daughters, Vickie and Laura.

Char was a free spirit and lived in many different areas. She spent time in Washington state, California, Idaho, and Minnesota. In later years, she lived in Oklahoma and New Mexico with her husband Ron. But they always came back home to South Dakota. Char and Ron enjoyed traveling to and participating in flea markets, liked antiquing, and spending time with family and friends.

Charlotte had a strong faith in the Lord which got her through the hard and good times. She helped at many churches with different roles, but her favorite was Sunday School, VBS, and adult devotions. She attended church in any area she lived and loved sharing the teachings of God by word and deed. She had many friends here and in other places, she lived.

Charlotte will be deeply missed by her daughter, Laura Clark (Amy Mathiason); stepdaughter, Karie Rottluff; her grandchildren, Jonathon and Amber Dennis, and Bryan (Rose) Clark; step-grandchildren, Tasneem, and Amir (Allison) Rottluff; great-granddaughters, Cara Dennis, Anastasia, and Ezmerelda Clark; her sister, Sharon (David) Lundquist Foesch; several nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Charlotte is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Rottluff; her daughter, Vickie Dennis; and her mother, Irene Lundquist.

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.

July 15, 1950 ~ November 7, 2024

John C. Vermeer, 74, Valley Springs, SD, passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00am, at Pleasant View Cemetery, Valley Springs, SD, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. The family invites you to join them for coffee and fellowship at the Valley Springs American Legion Hall, following the service.

John Clarence Vermeer was born on July 15, 1950, in Luverne, MN, to Leonard and Dorothy (Bernards) Vermeer, at the Luverne Community Hospital.  He was raised on the family farm along with his seven siblings. John was baptized in the American Reformed Church of Luverne and later became a member of the Valley Springs Reformed Church. He graduated from Luverne High School in 1970.

John married Mary Doyle on October 12, 1996. John farmed and later worked for Marv’s Sanitation as well as the City of Valley Springs. He was known to be a helper and friend to many. John is survived by his wife, Mary; siblings, Anna Huiskes, Mary (David) Harris, Burt (Lee Ann) Vermeer, Jane (Gene) VanderWolde, and Barb Nankivel; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Dorothy Vermeer; brother, Ed Vermeer; and his sister, Marty Vermeer.

October 29, 1926 ~ November 2, 2024

Leola M. Graff, 98, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Dow Rummel Village in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Private Burial will take place at Brandon Lutheran Cemetery.  A Memorial Service will begin at 1:30pm, Friday, December 27, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home, with a time of fellowship and visitation following the service.

Leola May Pederson was born on October 29, 1926, in Garretson, SD.  She graduated from Garretson High School in 1944 as a Salutatorian.  She attended Augustana College for 9 months then attended Nettleton Commercial College in Sioux Falls.  She married Harvey Graff at the Palisades Lutheran Church on September 20, 1948, east of Garretson where she was baptized and confirmed.  

Leola worked as a bookkeeper at a medical clinic in Boulder, CO, while Harvey attended Pharmacy school at the University of Colorado. She then worked for 20 years as an Administrative Assistant in Financial Aid at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion. Following retirement, she was a volunteer for the South Dakota Department of Tourism at the Vermillion I-29 rest stop. In 1992, they moved to Sioux Falls to be closer to their two sons and five grandchildren. Leola was a volunteer at Sioux Valley Hospital and was also a member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls.

Leola is survived by her son, Scot (Debra Elofson) Graff; daughter-in-law, Kim Graff; grandchildren, Claire (Cody) Strong, Hayden (Shahad) Graff, Sarah (Joel) Mettler, Emily (Nate) Loos, and Dr. Peter (Guillermo) Graff; three great-grandchildren, Gavin and Wesley Strong, and William Loos.

Leola was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey Graff; son, Alan Graff; parents, Ed and Emma Pederson; sisters, Ione Miller, and Junie Remme; and brother, Leonard Edmundson.

August 7, 1975 ~ October 30, 2024

Carie A. Coyle, 49, passed away on October 30, 2024, at Sanford Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, surrounded by family and friends.

Carie’s Celebration of Life will be held from 1:30 ~ 3:30pm, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD, on Sunday, November 10, 2024.

Carie Ann Bauer was born on August 7, 1975, to Gary and Catherine (Shriver) Bauer. She grew up with her two older siblings and six younger siblings on an acreage outside of Clear Lake, IA.

Carie was dedicated to helping others and obtained a degree in Nursing, working in several different areas within Sioux Valley – now Sanford – Hospital, and also was a licensed EMT. She loved being able to use her time working as an opportunity to help others, especially when she worked in labor and delivery.

Carie was known for her extremely caring nature and passion for helping others. She spent much of her time finding ways to bring a smile to the face of anyone she met and sharing her love of Christ through worship. Known for her love of baking chocolate chip cookies and anything Christmas, Carie would love for all who knew her to continue to live their lives with joy, rather than the sadness of her passing.

Carie has gone to be with her father, and her son, Joshua, in Heaven and is undoubtedly keeping an eye on each of her children and her grandchildren. She adored being a grandmother and spoiling each of her grandchildren and never missed a chance to talk about them and their silly moments.

Carie is survived by her children and grandchildren, Shannon Waterfall (mother of Landen-age 9 and Lila-age 1), Shawna Minor, Sheila Coyle, Soren Coyle (father of Samira-age 5), Sierra Dean (mother of Evalyn-age 3 and Ezra-age 2), and Summer Coyle; her mother, Cathy Bauer; her siblings, Christy McLain, Heath Bauer, Clint Bauer, Shelly Taylor, Derek Bauer, Breilen Bauer, Blake Bauer, and Denise Bauer; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins who all loved her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her son, Joshua Coyle, and father, Gary Bauer.

August 9, 1955 ~ October 30, 2024

Marsha L. Doerksen, aged 69, passed away on October 30, 2024, in Sioux Falls, SD.

Memorial services will be held on the following dates and times, November 9, 2024, 11am, Zion Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls, SD; November 16, 2024, 1pm, Edgewater Baptist Church, Chicago, IL; and November 23, 2024, 1pm, Common Ground Church, Middleburg Heights, OH.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Marsha’s memory can be made to Eastside Baptist Church and Zion Lutheran Church, both in Sioux Falls, SD, Avera Uro-Gynae Oncology Center, or to The Gideons International.

Marsha Lynn Gosnell was born on August 9, 1955, in Marshall, NC. Marsha graduated from Strongsville High School in Ohio and furthered her education at Tennessee Temple University. Professionally, she worked as a Medical Transcriptionist. She was meticulous and highly regarded by her colleagues.

A devout Christian, Marsha loved Jesus. She was a member of Bee Bee Town Baptist growing up in Columbia Station, OH, and later at Edgewater Baptist Church in Chicago, IL. She was actively involved in her church communities. At Edgewater Baptist Church, she regularly attended Sunday services, led youth groups, and organized women’s Bible Studies.

In her personal life, Marsha was known for her caring nature and her dedication to her faith. She loved spending time with others, opening her home for friends and family to gather and was always up for a party.

Marsha is survived by her husband, Roy Doerksen; children, Frank (Ashley) Doerksen, Rebekah (Peter) Kang, and Bryan Doerksen; granddaughters, Hazel, Evelynn Ann, Stella Rae, and Josie Lorraine; and her five siblings.

Marsha’s legacy of kindness and devotion will be remembered by all who knew her.

September 26, 1942 ~ October 29, 2024

Edgar A. Vermeer, 82, Sioux Falls, formerly Brandon, SD, passed away on October 29, 2024, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, surrounded by family.

Visitation will be 5-7pm, Monday, November 4, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home, Brandon. Memorial Services will be 11am, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the Spirit of Truth Lutheran Church, Brandon, followed by Full Military Honors.  Inurnment will follow at Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne. To watch the Funeral Service Live click here https://youtube.com/live/mav366Koso0?feature=share

Edgar “Ed” Anton Vermeer was born on September 26, 1942, to Leonard and Dorothy (Bernards) Vermeer in Luverne, MN, and was raised on the family farm. He was baptized on November 1, 1942, at Steen Reformed Church and confessed his faith as a young adult at American Reformed Church in Luverne. Ed attended school in Luverne, MN, graduating in 1961. He joined the Army National Guard in 1960 and served until 1964.

On December 5, 1964, Ed married Lila Beyer at St. John’s Lutheran in Luverne, MN. Together, they shared almost 60 years of marriage and were blessed with three children. Ed spent many years farming, worked at A.R. Woods in Luverne, MN, and retired from Luverne Truck Equipment in Brandon, SD. While living in Luverne, he was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and deacon. Later in Brandon, he was a member of Faith United Presbyterian Church where he served as a deacon and spent many years on the building and grounds committee. Most recently, Ed was a member of Spirit of Truth Lutheran Church in Brandon, SD.

Ed enjoyed being out in nature, feeding the birds, tending to his flowers, fishing, camping, and cooking with a Dutch oven. He found a great amount of joy playing Santa during the holidays, where he spread laughter and cheer to residences at nursing homes. Above all, Ed cherished time spent with family and friends, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Ed never let a moment pass without adding his signature touch of fun. With a laugh and his favorite saying, “Just gotta have some fun,” he lifted everyone around him. His joy was infectious, his laughter unforgettable, and his love for life unwavering. Ed’s light will continue to shine through the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Ed is survived by his wife, Lila; daughters, Lisa (Tom) Johnson and Amy (Mike) Maher; and grandchildren, Makayla Maher, Kailey (Ethan) Osmundson, Izabella Maher, Chase Maher, and Malia Johnson; his siblings, Anna Huiskes, Mary (Dave) Harris, Burt (LeeAnn) Vermeer, Jane (Gene) VanderWolde, John (Mary) Vermeer, and Barb Nankivel; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Ed is preceded in death by his son, Douglas Vermeer; grandson, Carter Johnson; his parents, Leonard and Dorothy (Bernards) Vermeer; and sister, Marty Vermeer.