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.

November 25, 1926 ~ September 23, 2026

Gordon E. Beckstrom, 99, Sioux Falls, departed his loving family on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the VA Hospice Cottage in Sioux Falls.

A private family memorial service will be held with Inurnment at the SD Veteran’s Cemetery.

Gordon Eugene Beckstrom was born on November 25, 1926, in Sioux Falls, SD, to parents, Willard and Lillian (Gjovig) Beckstrom. Gordon attended school in Sioux Falls.  Gordon, like so many more of the greatest generation, enlisted in the US Navy at age 17.  He needed his parents’ signature to do this.  He enlisted in February 1944, and after basic training he was assigned to the Battle Ship USS West Virginia.  They went immediately into action in the Pacific where they fought the Japanese at the Battle of the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa.  On Easter Sunday, April 1st, Gordon survived a Kamikaze attack on #2-gun mount.  The suicide plane hit to one side, killing 4 and injuring 28.  Gordon was handing up munitions from below.  The bomb on the suicide plane failed to detonate, saving his life.  Gordon was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal (4), American Area Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal (2) and World War II Victory Medal.  

Gordon was employed at Fenn’s Dairy and later, many years at Northern States Power.  Gordon and his wife Delna, were married on March 17, 1949.  Delna and Gordon took many nice trips over the years including Hawaii, Mexico, and Canada.  They took many fun camping vacations and also wintered in their snowbird Florida home.  Gordon and Delna celebrated almost 73 years of marriage. 

Gordon enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family.  He took pride in having an excellent green lush lawn and also loved to putter with his flower beds.  He loved to socialize with friends and family.   Gordon was a devoted husband and father.  He raised his children with love.  

Gordon had the distinction of living almost to the Century age of 100.  

Gordon is survived by his children, Jan Bullock, Longview, TX, Stanley (Carol) Beckstrom, Hartford, SD, Richard (Beverly) Beckstrom, Sioux Falls, SD, and Shawn Jorgensen, CA; Gordon was grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren; He is also survived by sister-in-law, Sharon Beckstrom.

Gordon was preceded in death by his wife; one infant daughter, Kimberly Rae; one infant granddaughter, Rachel; by siblings, Helen Beckstrom-Smith, Willard Beckstrom, Dolores Beckstrom-Parker-Boyd, Duane Beckstrom and Roger Beckstrom.  

“What is IBM stock doing today?”   (A favorite question of Gordon’s)

June 29, 1970~ September 24, 2026

Renee L. (Hennings) Brokaw, age 56, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

A Celebration of Life for Renee will be 5-7pm, Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home. A Memorial has been established in Renee’s honor.

Renee Lynn Hennings was born to Justus Hennings Jr and Bonnie Pease on June 29, 1970, in Sioux Falls, SD, where she lived a life defined by strength, resilience, and an unbelievable love for her family and friends.

Renee faced life head on overcoming a terrible accident at the age of seven, and moving forward to live a life full of adventure. She loved traveling, hiking, transporting rescue dogs, and celebrating life every chance she had. She was always the support for everyone whenever needed. She was a reliable caretaker, emotional anchor, and problem-solver who held everyone together during a crisis.

Renee spent 29 years as a custodial contractor at Eros Data Center (USGS). She made many lasting friendships and was known for her hard work ethic and reliability. Outside of her work, she poured her heart into animal rescues, camping, and traveling across the states with her husband, Fred. She found joy in making lasting memories and living in the moment.

Above all, Renee was a devoted wife and mother. She leaves behind beautiful memories full of love, laughter, and strength, that will continue to follow her friends and family for a lifetime.

Renee’s memory will be cherished by her husband, Fred; her daughter, Shantel (Justin) Carrillo; her mother, Bonnie Hennings; her siblings, Joel (Lana) Hennings, Tyler (Ashton) Hennings, Tammy (Frank) Brown, Justus Hennings III; sister-in-law, Jen (Adam Dahl) Mulder; and brother-in-law, Tom (Lori Spade Snetsinger) Snetsinger; along with many nieces and nephews that she helped raise; and amazing friends she loved whole heartedly.

Renee was preceded in death by her father, Justus Hennings Jr; and a nephew, Shawn Law.

March 27, 1959 ~ September 21, 2026

Paul E. Krogstad, 67, Chamberlain, died peacefully, Monday, September 21, 2026, at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD, after a battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

At Paul’s request there will be no funeral held but a Celebration of Life will be planned in Spring of 2027, with more information to come. A donation can be made to Fishing For A Cure, Inc. (106 E. Beebe Street Chamberlain, SD 57325) or click HERE to donate in memory of Paul and his love for fishing.

Paul Eric Krogstad was born March 27, 1959, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Palmer Krogstad Jr. and Mildred (Milli Brockhouse) Krogstad. After his father passed away, Paul moved to Mitchell, SD, with his mother Milli, who was then united in marriage with Dr. Floyd Gillis, in 1969. Paul attended school there and graduated from Mitchell High School in 1977. After high school, Paul attended Mitchell Vo-Tech and worked for Nortel Networks for most of his career, and then made his home in Chamberlain, SD, where he could be close to the river. Following his time with Nortel, Paul worked locally at St. Joseph’s Indian School, Chamberlain Wholesale, and as a fishing and hunting guide.

Paul was known for his love of fishing and competed in many tournaments. His life journey was the pursuit of Walleyes. His license plate which read “WALL I,” exemplified the passion he had for the sport. Paul was also passionate about the outdoors, hunting, playing cribbage, pool, and cooking.

Thankful for sharing his life are his siblings, Linda (Al) Hoefert, Sioux Falls, SD, Lana (Ron) Wiblemo, Camdenton, Mo; half-brother, Mike (Lila) Gillis, Yankton, SD; step-brothers, Rick (Miggs) Gillis, KS, John Gillis, KS,  Floyd Gillis III, KS; and a step-sister, Sue Reaney, MN; a very special nephew, Chet (Nikki) Hoefert, Sioux Falls, SD; and many more nieces, nephews, and special friends that he shared his life with: Rick Schochenmaier, Dan Giles, Shawn Griffin, Steve Smith, and Tim Ellsworth.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Palmer Krogstad, Milli Gillis; and his step-father, Floyd Gillis.

June 28, 1936 ~ September 17, 2026

Montie F. Horn, 90, Sioux Falls, died Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, after an extended battle with health issues.

Visitation with family present will be 5~7pm, Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Westside Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls.  Funeral Services will begin at 10am, Thursday, September 24, 2026, also at Westside Lutheran Church. A livestream link will be provided to watch remotely. Interment will follow at Hills of Rest Cemetery, Sioux Falls, with Full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Montie’s honor.

Montie was born on June 28, 1936, in Sioux Falls, SD to Vernon and Mary (Graham) Horn. After living in numerous locations in and around the Sioux Falls area, he graduated from Hills High School in Hills, MN in 1955. Montie was married to Josephine Ward from 1957 until 1980; they had three children – Jeffrey, Brian, and Nancy. In 1981, he married Karen Clauson, and they had one child, Matthew.

In 1954, while still in high school, Montie joined the SD Air National Guard, receiving an Honorable discharge in 1962. In 1960, he started his first career at John Morrell where he worked for 13 years. Montie discovered his true calling when he started volunteering with Minnehaha County Civil Defense in 1966. In 1973, when he was appointed to be the Deputy Coordinator, Montie started full-time employment with Civil Defense. After being named Director of Civil Defense in 1986, Montie assumed responsibility for disaster preparedness in Minnehaha County and oversight of the Rescue Squad, Dive Team, and Police Reserves. He served in that position for 28 years, until his retirement in 2001. During his time at Civil Defense (Emergency Management), Montie was instrumental in founding the South Dakota EMT Association and purchasing the first “Jaws of Life” in the state. His impacts on disaster preparedness and emergency medical services at the county and state levels are still evident today. After of his official retirement, Montie settled into another career working for the Renner Corner Locker, until 2019.

Accomplishments in Montie’s life and career include obtaining an airplane pilot’s license, serving as an EMT for Sioux Falls Ambulance, and acting as a bail bondsman. In addition, he held terms as President of the following organizations: SECA Citizen Band Radio Club, South Dakota Emergency Management Assn, Southeast Emergency Services Assn, South Dakota Emergency Medical Technicians Assn, and Hills, MN, Future Farmers of America. Montie was a Minnesota FFA State Farmer and a Lifetime Member of the following associations: South Dakota Emergency Medical Technicians, South Dakota Emergency Management, and Minnehaha County Fire Chiefs. Montie also served on the Minnehaha County American Red Cross Board and the Moose Lodge Board of Directors. Notable events he played a major role in responding to include the 1968-69 blizzard and flood, United Flight 232 plane crash in Sioux City, 1993 floods, and the Spencer tornado. The accomplishment Montie was most proud of was becoming a Blood Brother with the Sioux Indian Medicine Man, Papa Bear Whitmore, Grandfather of the Bear Clan in August 1998. His Sioux name was Washta-Canta which means Good Heart.

Montie’s good heart shone through in his relationships with people; conversations with friends and colleagues included great stories rich in detail, jokes, and bits of wisdom. Known for his dry sense of humor and his big laugh, Montie was considered by some to be the “Life of the Party.”

Montie enjoyed spending time with his family, day trips to the casino, hunting, fishing, trips to the Black Hills, woodworking, tracking his family ancestry, dabbling in the art of Schnapps making, sunsets at Lake Madison, and a nightly cribbage game with Karen while enjoying a cocktail.

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Karen Horn, Sioux Falls, SD; four children, Jeffrey (Holly) Horn, Indianapolis, IN, Brian (Mary) Horn, Sioux Falls, SD, Nancy (David) Janak, Westminster, CO, and Matthew (Christina) Horn, Hartford, SD; nine grandchildren, Kayree, Lindley, Shayla, Justin, Tasha, Kaitlyn, Ethan, Aubriana, and Stella; nine great-grandchildren; Karson, Kinsley, Lathan, Trace, Brynn, Bryson, Callen, Jack, and Nora; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Montie is preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Mary Horn; five siblings; great grandchild, Hadley Horn; and mother-in-law, Esther Clauson.