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.

July 24, 1946 ~ February 18, 2025

Deacon Henry Joseph Knapp, 78, of Sioux Falls, died peacefully, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital, with his family gathered around him. He was a committed, dedicated, and faithful Catholic husband, father, grandfather, friend, and deacon. Henry was always anxious to help people appreciate the real presence of Jesus in their lives. He sincerely tried to serve the Lord well in attempting to serve His people well.

Visitation will begin at 4pm, Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Church of St. Mary Immaculate Heart, Sioux Falls, with a Prayer Service at 5:30pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 4pm, Friday, February 21, 2025, also at the Church of St. Mary.

Henry was raised in Highland Falls, NY. After attending Catholic elementary school, high school, and college, Henry worked in the electric utility industry as an employee or consultant for some 40 years. Henry was a licensed professional engineer and occupied many responsible positions in the industry. He was ordained a deacon at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Sioux Falls by Bishop Paul Anderson on January 26, 1985. Henry ministered as a deacon at the Church of St. Mary in Sioux Falls and in various other areas outside the parish.

Henry will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Christine, whom he married on November 30, 1968, at St. Joseph Church, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY; his son, Michael (Catherine); his daughter, Jennifer (Reynaldo) Gonzales; four grandchildren, Noah Knapp, Gabriel Gonzales, Rachel Knapp, and Jacob Gonzales; two brothers, Robert (Linda) Knapp and George (Barbara) Knapp; and several nieces and nephews.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Anna and Henry Knapp; and his many aunts and uncles.

February 22, 1941 ~ February 14, 2025

Gail A. Hermanson, 83, Brandon, SD, passed on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Ponderosa Lodge Senior Living in Sioux Falls, SD.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD. Funeral Services will begin at 6:30pm.

Gail Annette Gulseth was born on February 22, 1941, in Sioux Falls, SD to LeRoy and Ethelyn (Elofson) Gulseth. She was a lifelong member of Beaver Valley Lutheran Church in rural Valley Springs. She graduated from Valley Springs High School in 1959.

Gail married Dr. John M. Hermanson on April 2, 1978, at Beaver Valley Lutheran Church.

Gail found fulfillment in working in multiple healthcare offices over the years as a medical receptionist. Upon retirement, she spent time watching golf on TV and was an avid fan of Phil Mickelson. Gail will be remembered for her strong faith, love of family, having lunch with her dear friends, baking cakes and goodies for special needs at church, and hosting holiday parties for neighbors, relatives, and office patients. Her warmth, kindness, and generous spirit touched many and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Grateful for sharing her life are her son, Gregg (Deborah) Letcher of Brandon, SD; grandsons, Austin Letcher, St. Paul, MN, and Aden (Olivia Tusa) Letcher, Seattle, WA; and brother, Douglas (Carrie) Gulseth, Valley Springs, SD.

Gail was preceded in death by her husband, John; her parents, LeRoy and Ethelyn; and brother, Dick Gulseth.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Ponderosa Lodge in Sioux Falls. Their unwavering support and hugs this past year brightened each day in a loving way as she needed more assistance.

October 25, 1946 ~ February 11, 2025

David D. Worden, Sr., 78, Welcome, MN, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the VA Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD.

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

David Dean Worden was born on October 25, 1946, in Blue Earth, MN, to Raymond & Elaine (Blome) Worden.

David proudly served in the Army and held various jobs throughout his life. He dedicated over 20 years as a jailer with the Martin County Sherriff’s Department before retiring. David cherished the time spent with his family and friends and had a passion for camping, fishing, classic cars, and upholstery work. On June 25, 1977, he married Shari Quade in Newell, IA.

David is survived by his children, David Worden, Jr., Motley, MN, JoAnn Widrig, Rapid City, SD, Tami (Jason) Hill, Exland, WI, and Jason (Mary) Worden, Fairmont, MN; 18 grandchildren; many great grandchildren; sister, Paula (Palmer) Olson, Storm Lake, IA; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

David was proceeded in death by his wife, Shari; parents, Raymond and Elaine; and siblings.

September 28, 1936 ~ February 3, 2025

Doris E. Pontius, 88, Sioux Falls, SD, died Monday, February 3, 2025, in Sioux Falls.

A Visitation will be held from 5-7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, at Heartland Funeral Home. To watch the Funeral Service by livestream, please click HERE.

Doris Elaine Honsey was born on September 28, 1936, in Bottineau, ND, to Sam and Arla (Lagerquist) Honsey. When she was two and a half years old, her father died in a trapping accident. Doris was the youngest of five children. She fondly remembers her oldest brother, Leonard, who was thirteen years old at the time, becoming the ‘head of the household’ and rocking her to sleep at night. Despite the family tragedy, Doris enjoyed her childhood on their farm that bordered Canada, near the Peace Gardens. They worked and played hard together.

Riding horses bareback to school, skating on the cattle’s water tank overflow, snow skiing behind galloping horses, cooking for threshing crews at twelve years old, sewing and knitting – all became life-long activities. She and her sister, Faye, were known to ‘ride horses like the wind!’

At the age of seventeen, Doris dedicated her life to living for God. She remained true to this vow and found great joy and meaning for life while studying the Bible and living her faith. This faith and love for Jesus was the foundation for her life and deepest comfort in death.

Doris graduated from Rolla High School in 1953 and worked as a secretary in Minneapolis, MN where she met John Pontius. They were married in 1957 and lived in Tacoma, WA during John’s years in the Army. They returned to Minnesota where Bradley John was born in 1962 and Shannon Faye in 1965. They lived in Faribault, Roseville, and Hastings before moving to Sioux Falls, SD in 2010. Doris and John enjoyed sixty years of marriage and worked side-by-side with an apple orchard and a sales company where Doris was involved in marketing, accounting, and managing each business.

Doris was a wonderful mother to Bradley and Shannon, encouraging piano lessons, teaching them to love the outdoors, being positive, practical, and creative. Pancake batter was formed into turtles, furniture became forts, hikes in the woods and downhill skiing were mandatory. When others were concerned about the weather, she would say: “Just dress warmly, and you will love winter!”

She was also a fun-loving grandmother to her four grandchildren. She led them on forest adventures full of laughter near the St. Croix River and sewed and knitted for them – creating many doll clothes and costumes along with mending/tailoring.

Doris will be deeply missed by her two children, Bradley Pontius, Boulder, CO, and Shannon (Dan) Graber, Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren, Alina and Elise Pontius, and Annika and Grant Graber, half-brother, John Abrahamson; dear sister-in-law, Clarice Honsey; and beloved nephews and nieces. We will never forget her love for God and life.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband, John Pontius; parents, Sam and Arla Honsey; stepfather, Alfred Abrahamson; and siblings, Leonard, Harvey, Glenn Honsey, and Faye Williams.

The family is grateful for the care and kindness provided by Sanford Home Hospice during Doris’ last month of life.

July 24, 1950 ~ January 23, 2025

Melvin “Mel” R. Pine, 74, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at his home.

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

Melvin Ray Pien was born in Sioux Falls, SD, on July 24, 1950, to Melvin and Marcelle (From) Pien.

Mel is survived by his brother John (Linda) Pien, Hartford, SD; nieces, Vicki (Steve) Mallinger, Kristi Thomas, and Laura Reed; nephews, Dave (Sari) Pien, Marcus (Shanna) Styles, and Kevin Styles; and a host of other relatives and friends.

November 7, 1941 ~ January 17, 2025

Robert (Bob) J. Barr, 83, Chatsworth, IA, better known as “Gramps” and “Old Man”, decided to take his final nap on Friday, January 17, 2025, at his home.  

Robert (Bob) Joseph Barr was born on November 7, 1941, in Iowa, to Robert and Evelyn (Burnight) Barr.

Bob served in the United States Army during peacetime in Korea, where he likely honed his legendary ability to crack jokes in any situation. Bob was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #1865 in Hawarden, Iowa. He was a body mechanic and a wizard with a paint gun, making cars shine so bright that some folks actually paid to have his name displayed on the side!

After hanging up his mechanic tools, he teamed up with his buddy, and fellow late family member, Butch Keiser, at PAK Construction. Together, they pushed dirt around until they realized they just as well practice pushing their walkers!

In his younger days, Bob rocked out in a band and hit dingers on the softball field, always spreading laughter as the ultimate jokester. He was the grandkids’ favorite chauffeur, taking them around Hawarden for ice cream and life lessons, often reminding them, “If you can’t be good, be good at it!” He was also famous for his tall tales, like the time he claimed to have played ping pong with George Foreman in his buddy’s garage or jammed with Carlos Santana – stories that may or may not have been true, but definitely added to his legendary status.

Bob loved taking his kids out for catch, bike rides on the trails, and even dumpster diving on the last day of school to collect teachers’ old books, so they could play pretend school and truly feel like educators.

In his final months, you could always count on Bob’s favorite shows, “Heartland” or “Yellowstone,” to be on the TV. Those who cared for him will never be able to watch them again, having already binged them from start to finish a thousand times!

Bob is survived by his sons, Scott (Sharon) Barr, Tim (Gina) Lawrence, and Robert (Bekki) Baker; daughters, Annette (Tony) Martens, Ashley (Tyler) Barr, and Lindsey (Joshua) Goracke; sister, Linda (Mike) Coons; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and former wife and close friend, Judy Van Bruggen.

Bob is preceded in death by his daughter, Theresa Barr; parents, Robert Barr and Evelyn Renken; grandson, Jack Lawrence; brothers, Charles Renken, Richard Renken, and Raymond Barr; and his favorite niece, Melissa Peskey.

Ashley and Lindsey would like to give a special thank you to his granddaughter and best friend, McKenzie, and niece, Kara, for helping them keep the old man home where he always wanted to be. They would also like to thank St. Croix Hospice for the special care they provided. Robert’s spirit will forever live on in the stories, laughter, and slightly inappropriate jokes shared by his family.

And now, in Bob’s words, “Alright, go home now. I wanna take a nap! Shake it easy!”

November 26, 1965 ~ January 8, 2025

James “Jim” H. Dixon, 59, Brookings, SD, most beloved father, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Bethany Home in Sioux Falls, SD.

Per James’ wishes, there is no service planned.

If you would like to honor his memory and generous spirit, you may donate to one of his favorite charities in his name, World Kitchen or Team Rubicon.  

James “Jim” Hall Dixon was born on November 26, 1965, in Wisconsin to John and Ethyl (Wagner) Dixon. Growing up…which Jim never fully did, he was always outside spending time with the neighborhood kids. Jim was also a talented athlete and musician. As a young man he was often at the helm of a Wisconsin Dells Duck. He was passionate about Wisconsin sports, nature, hiking, and cooking.

Jim was a wonderful source of laughter throughout his life, whether it was with a quick joke, a well-timed Monty Python quote, or that trademark Dixon sarcasm. He was often quoted saying that his true religion was kindness, and he exemplified that in every way, even as he suffered kidney disease for 15 years. Jim said his life’s purpose and greatest joy was to be a father. He was a father not only to his daughters, but to many cohorts of teenagers that he worked with throughout the years; and all would agree that he excelled as his life’s purpose of being a wonderful father.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Annika and Leah; and his brother, Matt.

 July 27, 1954 ~ January 8, 2025

Lindy J. Paclik, 70, Brandon, SD, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at her home, surrounded by those who loved her, leaving behind a legacy of courage and grace.

A Celebration of Life open house will be 5-7pm, Monday, January 13, 2025, at Heartland Funeral Home.

Lindy Jo Thompson was born in Sioux Falls, SD, on July 27, 1954, to James and Ruth (Docken) Thompson.

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we say goodbye to our beloved Lindy Jo, a peaceful warrior, free spirit, and a woman whose love and light touched the lives of so many.

For 52 years, Lindy shared a beautiful life with her devoted husband, Ron. Their bond was one of unwavering love, trust, and mutual respect. Together, they created a life rich in joy and adventure.

Lindy’s spirit was wild and free, and she found her true peace in the embrace of nature, particularly in the beauty of the ocean that she cherished so deeply. Her words of wisdom, always shared with those she loved, were a guiding light to many. A courageous woman, Lindy faced life’s challenges with strength, and she inspired all who knew her with her resilience and kindness.

Above all, Lindy was adored by her three grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She was a constant presence in their lives, offering love, support, and the wisdom that only a grandmother can give. Her legacy lives on in their hearts and in the countless lives she touched.

Lindy leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her memory. She was a radiant soul whose influence will remain with all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her peaceful, courageous, and loving spirit will never be forgotten.

Lindy is survived by her husband, Ron Paclik; daughters, Tara Paclik, and Shannon (Kyle) Carda; grandchildren, Sumner, Mason, and Gavin.

Lindy was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Ruth Thompson; and her sister, Susie.

Rest in peace, Lindy. You are deeply loved and will be missed by all whose lives you graced.