August 26, 1952 ~ May 27, 2026

Betty Crandall, 73, of Ocheyedan, IA, went peacefully to her eternal home with Jesus Christ her Savior on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD. 

Celebration of Life service will begin at 11:00am on Saturday, June 6, 2026, followed by fellowship reception at Tabernacle Baptist Church in George, IA. You may watch the livestream of the service via YouTube by clicking HERE.

Betty Kay McQuown was born on August 26, 1952, in Estherville, IA, to Leland and Jeanette (Koostra) McQuown. She was the 5th of 10 children. Betty split her time growing up between the family farm near Wallingford, IA and Koostra farm near Ocheyedan, IA with her aunts Bea and Theresa Koostra. She attended Christian school in Ocheyedan through 8th grade. Betty graduated from Graettinger High School in 1970. She continued her education at Pillsbury Baptist Bible College in Owatonna, MN.

During her time at college, Betty met the love of her life Gary Crandall. They were united in marriage on June 29, 1974. They shared a faithful journey of almost 52 years together. They lived in various places including Owatonna, MN, Minneapolis, MN, Charlotte, NC, and Ocheyedan, IA. They had 3 beloved daughters and 7 grandchildren. 

Throughout her life Betty had various jobs caring for others as a teacher, daycare provider, church secretary, nursing home cook and multiple positions with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. 

Betty expressed her love through cooking, baking, and visiting with neighbors, friends and family. Betty loved being a mom and grandma. She enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s activities. Throughout her life Betty was involved in church, Bible studies, VBS, Sunday school teacher, American Legion Auxiliary, KJIA radio station and supporting various missions/missionaries. 

Betty enjoyed gardening, flowers, canning and thrift store shopping with her sisters and sister-in-law. She loved worship music, singing and playing the piano. She had a beautiful soprano voice and the best laugh. Her smile could light up a room. 

Betty loved and trusted in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She remained faithful while struggling with multiple health challenges throughout her life. Her prayer was that others would know Jesus and join her in heaven one day. It is comforting knowing Betty is loving being with her heavenly grandbabies. At the end of her life, she prayed for her family including grandchildren and future generations. Her favorite hymn was “It Is Well with My Soul.” She told us, “It is well with my soul, and I’m ready to go home to heaven.”

Betty is survived by her husband, Gary Crandall; daughters, Caroline (Jonathan) Feldkamp, Kim (Bryan) Weiss, Nicole (Joe) Wilschek; six grandsons, Logan, Levi (Ellie), Lucas, Landon and Lincoln Feldkamp, and Charlie Weiss; one granddaughter, Kaitlyn (Trevor) Gurrola; siblings, Lois Blair, sister-in-law, Judy McQuown, Jim (Nancy) McQuown, Judy Clarke, Nancy (Myron) Brenner, Connie (Don) Lavender, Peggy (Kevin) Lorch, Marjie McHale, Kathy Travis, and sister-in-law, Karen (Jimmy) Lombard; and many nieces and nephews. 

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Leland and Jeanette McQuown; beloved aunts, Bea and Theresa Koostra; brother, Gary McQuown and brothers-in-law, Bill Blair, Maurice Becker, Jay Clarke, and Art McHale. 

“It is well with my soul”

~Romans 8:28; 38-39

December 25, 1938 ~ May 30, 2026

Vernon Bolt, 87, Brandon, SD, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, May 30, 2026, with his wife Ivy, beside him.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at Cloverdale Funeral Home and Cemetery in Boise, ID.

Vernon Bolt was born on December 25, 1938, in Edgerton, MN, to Cornelius “Case” and Lydia (Kallemeyn) Bolt. Vern was the youngest of six children and spent his early years in the Edgerton area. He married Darlene Van Marel on September 11, 1959. After their marriage, the couple moved to Downey, CA, where they raised their family and Vern worked driving a semi-truck on a route, hauling cartons of milk throughout his career. Upon his retirement, the couple moved to Boise, ID. Darlene passed away in 2015.

Vernon married Ivy (Hulstein) Hoogeveen on June 3, 2017. Together, the couple made many happy memories between their winters in Mesa, AZ, and their summers in Brandon, SD.

Vernon was a devoted Christian and always had a very strong work ethic. He also made everyone around him laugh. He was blessed with a humorous personality and quick wit, while having a wonderful smile with everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Vernon is survived by his wife, Ivy; children, Charlotte Sicurella, Wayne (Barbara) Bolt, and Larry (Tina) Bolt. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Amber (Andrew) Souza, and their children, Caleb and Oliver, Alex (Hannah) Bolt, and their son, Benjamin, Alyssa (Alex) Jimenez, and baby girl coming soon, Austin Bolt, Aiden Bolt.

Vernon was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene; parents, Cornelius and Lydia; Ella (Bert) Kooiman, Garet (Julie) Bolt, Ralph (Effie) Bolt, Joanne (Ray) Hibma, and Arthur (Darlene) Bolt.

April 2, 1939 ~ May 20, 2026

Georgene “Jean” Van Essen, 87, Sioux Falls, SD, went peacefully to her eternal home on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, meeting the “Joy of her life” – her Savior – whom she served so faithfully all of her life.

Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD. Burial will follow at Swedona Covenant Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Sioux Falls Christian School in Jean’s memory.

Georgene “Jean” Huisken was born on April 2, 1939, in Edgerton, MN, to George and Margret (Van Buren) Huisken. Unexpectedly, Jean started off her life in this world in the basement of a home, being born in the basement of a relative’s house in Edgerton, due to her parents not being able to make it to the Pipestone Hospital. To everyone’s surprise, not only was Jean born there, but four hours later her mother also gave birth to her twin brother, George.

     Jean grew up in Chandler, MN, with her siblings, George, Rod, Gary, and Bob. She attended school at Southwest Christian in Edgerton. It was there that a young man noticed this wonderful young girl, Jean, and despite obstacles, caught Jean’s attention. Wesley “Wes” and Jean were married on October 2, 1959. 

      Wes and Jean made their home in Pipestone, MN, where Wes operated a shoe store, and Jean was a stay-at-home mother to their 3 children – Jody, Jay, and Shelia. They attended the Christian Reformed Church in Pipestone.  At the age of 30, Jean suffered a brain aneurysm and, by the grace of God, survived; however, that had a major impact throughout her life.

     After several years, Wes took on the role of director of Woodstock Treatment Center in Woodstock, MN. During those 28 years as director, Wes and Jean faithfully served the individuals that the Lord brought into their lives. They ministered to many individuals and families in their home. Jean took on the role of chairman of the Christian Women’s Club for many years. Guests are always welcomed in their home, with meals and fellowship, sharing testimonies with so many.

       As their children reached adulthood, Jean became a Certified Nurse Assistant. She was employed at the Good Samaritan Home for many years. Her joy, love, and kindness for all, but especially for the less fortunate, soon became known. Her kindness and devotion were rewarded not only with the “Nurse of the year” award but also with becoming friends with the staff, offering so much counseling, and even being asked to stand up in their weddings.

    Wes retired in 2008, and Jean moved faithfully with him to Sioux Falls, SD. She continued to let her light shine by riding her bike to Sanford Hospital, volunteering to give love to babies – by rocking them – and to other patients there. Again, “love and joy were on display” as Jean was awarded “Volunteer of the Month” and recognized as being a kindhearted individual. Jean continued to serve in several capacities until she could not, much to her displeasure. Wes and Jean’s greatest joys were singing hymns together, harmonizing side by side, reflecting on the deep faith that guided their lives. This singing continued, together, along with others, almost to her departure.

    Jean was diagnosed with dementia in 2022 and moved to Bethany Home in Brandon, SD. Seldom being apart, Wes made it his priority to be at Jean’s side every day. During these last years, they both brought the joy of the LORD to the staff and other patients. Sometimes it is hard to understand why we, as God’s children, go through hard times despite serving the Lord for so many years, but Jean’s testimony was always that her faithful FATHER in heaven was in control and that it was her role to display the likeness of her Savior Jesus Christ. Her kindness, joy, and love, despite several trials, will always be remembered. Thank you, JEAN, for showing us JESUS!

      Jean is survived by her husband, Wes of 66 years; children, Jody (Curt) DeWitt, Jay Van Essen, and Sheila (Randy) Swanson; six grandchildren, Joshua DeWitt, Hannah Warner, Jake Swanson, Betsy Swanson, Isaac Van Essen, Eliza Van Essen; seven great-grandchildren; and brothers, George (Myrna) Huisken of Camarillo, CA, and Bob (Cindy) Huisken of Niceville, Florida.

    Jean was preceded in death by her grandson, Aaron DeWitt; parents, George and Margret Huisken; and brothers, Rod and Gary.

“THE JOY OF THE LORD IS YOUR STRENGTH”

~Nehemiah 8:10b

March 12, 1928 ~ May 3, 2026

On May 3, 2026, Leland “Wendell” Ames, Sioux Falls, SD, completed his earthly journey and is now at peace in the arms of the Lord after reaching the incredible age of 98.

Per Wendell’s request, a private service for the immediate family was held at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. Internment, with military rites, took place at the Brandon Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at Brandon Lumber, 403 S Main, Brandon, SD, 57005. Wendell requested that any memorials be directed to the American Legion in Brandon or Sioux Falls.

Leland “Wendell” Ames was born March 12, 1928, at Tulare, SD, to Louie and Reva (Roosa) Ames. Wendell grew up on the family farm, attended school at Tulare and was married to Betty LeGrand on June 12, 1949, in Huron, SD. Wendell was employed at Peavey Lumber in Redfield, SD prior to serving in the U.S. Army at Camp Breckenridge, KY, and in Ft. Hood, TX, from 1952-1954. He returned to manage the Peavey/Co-op Lumber Yard in Alpena, SD in 1954. Wendell and Betty raised 3 children: Ron, Connie and Tim. In 1967, they moved from Alpena to Brandon, SD when they purchased Brandon Lumber Company. They still own it today, 59 years later. Son, Ron, and grandson, Marcus, continue to operate the business. 

Wendell was involved in many church activities over the years, including the positions of trustee and treasurer. He was a charter member of the Brandon Water Company and the Brandon City Council. He served in the Brandon Volunteer Fire Department for 16 years and was proudly a member of the American Legion. Wendell and Betty worked tirelessly to build Brandon Lumber into a thriving business that served the community and region with high quality products and customer service. As CEO, Wendell received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the SD Retail Lumberman’s Association in 1992 for 40 years of continuous service in the retail lumber business; and in 1995 he was named their Lumberman of the Year. Beginning in the 1970s, Wendell and Betty developed the Ames Subdivision in Brandon with numerous single-family homes.

Wendell is survived by Betty, his wife of 77 years; son, Ron (Kay) Ames of Valley Springs; daughter, Connie Tveidt of Pierre; and son, Tim (Marilyn) Ames of Burton, Texas; 7 grandchildren, Marcus Ames, Stephanie Knapp, Jerry Tveidt, Michael Tveidt, Lee Ames, Nicole Ames, and Andrew Ames; and 12 great grandchildren.

Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, Louie and Reva; six siblings, Winifred, Lloyd, Robert, Shirley, Betty and Mavis; and his granddaughter, Jennifer Joy. Wendell believed John 3:16 with all his heart, so our sorrow is tempered with hope, as we await the great reunion in God’s House.

The family would like to thank the special caregivers from Avera Hospice who touched Wendell’s life in his final days, along with the caring team at Legends on Lake Lorraine. We are also grateful for Dr. Sam Zollicker and the staff at the Avera McGreevy Clinic in Brandon for their care and support over the years.

November 2, 1960 ~ May 7, 2026

Laurie Diane Nelson, 65, Brandon, SD, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Sanford USD Medical Center, in Sioux Falls, SD, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, family, and loved ones.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon with a service beginning at 7:00 p.m. A livestream of the funeral service may be viewed by clicking HERE. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family to build a memorial garden in Laurie’s name.

Laurie Diane Doering was born on November 2, 1960, in Sioux Falls, SD, to A. G. and Danielle (Ogdie) Ehlen. She grew up in Sioux Falls and graduated from Washington High School. Laurie began her career as a surgical technician after attending vocational school and worked at Avera before transitioning to Citibank. Her heart eventually led her back to healthcare, and she proudly earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of South Dakota.

Shortly after completing nursing school, Laurie was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer. She faced this battle with remarkable courage and used her experience to raise awareness of the disease. Later in life, she was also diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite these challenges, Laurie continued to care for others, including through her cherished role as a nanny for the Akkerman family. Over 14 years, she created countless memories with Audrey and Evelyn, who became an extension of her family.

Laurie married Dan Nelson on August 20, 1982. Although their marriage ended, they maintained a friendship and worked together to raise their three children. Laurie embraced farm life wholeheartedly, finding joy in driving tractors, wrangling livestock, and raising her family with love and laughter.

In 2004, Laurie met Dennis Altman, and the two shared a deep and joyful companionship. Their years together were filled with simple pleasures and adventures, including riding their matching mopeds, attending car shows, taking road trips to casinos, and sharing endless laughter. They became engaged shortly before Dennis passed in 2006. Laurie carried him in her heart always, and we find comfort knowing they are reunited.

Laurie had a servant’s heart. She welcomed people into her home, brought meals to those in need, gathered clothing and essentials for families going through difficult times, and volunteered in classrooms. Her smile and laugh were infectious, her hugs warm and generous, and her kindness unwavering. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, going for drives, shopping, eating out, and playing the occasional online game. She formed meaningful friendships through games like Mafia Wars and June’s Journey, some of which extended into real life.

Her greatest pride was her family. Laurie was a devoted mother to her three children, Ashlie, Blake, and Casey, her beloved ABC’s. She was endlessly supportive, selfless, and present in their lives. She was blessed to see each of them become parents and to witness the love they now pour into their own children. She often reminded her family to “call when you get home” and ended every conversation with “love you bunches.”

The title she cherished most was Grandma and Nana. Laurie adored her eight grandchildren. She celebrated their accomplishments, comforted their worries, spoiled them with treats, read stories, watched movies, and shared countless snuggles. While she leaves a tremendous void here on earth, we take comfort knowing she is now being welcomed by her eight grandbabies in heaven.

Laurie is survived by her children, Ashlie Nelson, Brandon, Blake (Anna) Nelson, Valley Springs, and Casey (Chris) Dickerson, Brandon. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Keegan and Koen Wingate, Bennett, Benson, and Addison Nelson, and Ari, Maeve, and Rae Dickerson; mother, Danielle Ehlen; sister, Linda (Kevin) Fountain; nephew, Royce Ehlen; niece, Jamie Jones; and special daughter, Shelly Krell.

Laurie was preceded in death by her fiancé, Dennis Altman; eight angel grandbabies; father, A.G. Doering; stepfather, Roy Ehlen; siblings, Marie Ehlen and Allan Gene Doering.

We are grateful for the love, strength, and memories Laurie shared with us throughout her life. She will be deeply missed and forever carried in our hearts. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

May 19, 1959 ~ April 20, 2026

Rebecca “Becky” D. Archer, 66, of Canton, SD, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

An informal Celebration of Life type potluck, for all of us to share our favorite family recipes together, will be held on May 23rd, 2026, at 12:00 pm, (weather permitting), at their spot at the Sioux River, at the end of Lincoln Street, Canton, SD, 57013. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her daughter Danielle, to help with memory keepsakes for distribution to family. Her Venmo is @dwsspecialties.

Rebecca “Becky” Dianne McClellan was born on May 19, 1959, in Corona, CA to Richard “Dick”, and Leona “Lee” (Jameson) McClellan. She was a strong, independent woman, that rose from the ashes of domestic abuse relationships, addictions, and trauma. She also believed everyone that was single deserved their other half, and it was her job to match them up. If she ever met a single person, it was her main goal in life to find their soul mate, or the next single person she met that fit her criteria for their mate. She had a sarcastic and dirty sense of humor that would make a cop blush. She was one hell of a woman that could bring a smile to your face, but also make you want to wring her neck. She was very outspoken, and if she saw something unjustified happening, she was sure to speak up or come up swinging if needed. This did get her in trouble sometimes, whether she was in the right, or wrong, you always knew where you stood with Rebecca. She was a friend to the end, or a “road dog”, as she would lovingly reference anyone that shared that same loyalty.

Rebecca’s last work family was at Cenex, where she worked for a combined amount of 4 years. She met numerous people, friends and her soulmate there. Her bestie Michelle, friends Amy, Ronald, Leanne, Tara, Monica, Kris, and countless others. She rarely met a person that wasn’t a friend. Rebecca dedicated the longest amount of work of 15 years to RGIS, where she had numerous friends; her besties being Ricki, Wendy, and the late Debbie. Rebecca had a very good work ethic, was team lead, always showed up, helped out, and was a great team player. 

Growing up in California made Rebecca love the sunshine, beach, and ocean, but she did love the cold up here as well. However, she missed her besties in CA; Mary, Debbie, Wendy and Ricki, among others. 

Rebecca was the cherished mother of her oldest daughter Michelle (Butch and Brook) Poulin, and youngest Danielle (Tanner) Wooledge, and the “best Mema” to her four adored grandchildren, Teddy, Lily, Taylor, and Annabell. As well as being a bonus Mema to her g babies, Kenny, Keith, Gracie, Nichole, and many other babies that came her way. She also had many ‘adopted’ children like Shane and Tiffany, etc., and ‘adopted’ mothers, Momma Deelstra, and Momma Knudsen.

Rebecca loved her soulmate Ron, that she had waited her whole life to meet. They had three wonderful years together, going to estate sales, stealing their nightly river kisses at their spot, and playing their bedtime spades phone games. Ron completed her life in ways she longed for, for many years, he was an answer to many prayers, and she loved to always say, “that beard is taken”, in regard to his luscious face mane, he always kept brushed and tamed. Rebecca loved to share her table with family and friends, who turned into family, watched her stories on Y&R and B&B, and loved her family. 

Rebecca was the cherished mother of her oldest daughter, Michelle (Butch and Brook) Poulin, youngest daughter, Danielle (Tanner) Wooledge; and the “best Mema” to her four adored grandchildren, Teddy, Lily, Taylor, and Annabell. As well as being a bonus Mema to her g babies, Kenny, Keith, Gracie, Nichole, and many other babies that came her way. She also had many ‘adopted’ children like Shane and Tiffany, etc., and ‘adopted’ mothers, Momma Deelstra, and Momma Knudsen.

Rebecca is survived by her youngest daughter, Danielle (Tanner) Wooledge; grandchildren, Teddy, Lily, Taylor, and Annabell; older sister, A. Renee; aunt, Peggy; uncle, Bill; some of her cousins; and her soulmate, Ron. Rebecca was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Richard and Leona; oldest daughter, Michelle;

March 12, 1939 ~ April 26, 2026

Mark W. Tisland, 87, of Volga, SD, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Madison Regional Health in Madison, SD.  

A Visitation will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Sinai Lutheran Church in Sinai, SD. A Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with burial following at East Sinai Cemetery with Full Military Honors. To watch the service live, click HERE. The link will direct you to the church Facebook page. The service will be broadcast via Facebook live.

Mark Wendell Tisland was born on Sunday, March 12, 1939, to Carl and Hazel June Marie (Nelson) Tisland at the Kruse Maternity Home in Arlington, SD.

Mark was raised on the Tisland family farm south of Sinai, SD, where they had no running water or electricity. Electricity was installed in 1977, and water and sewer in June of 1999.

Mark attended grade school at District #23, Lake Sinai Township, walking 3/4 miles uphill both ways, graduating in May 1953. He attended Rutland High School, Rutland, SD, graduating in May 1957. He moved to Sioux Falls, SD, in August 1957 to attend Nettleton Career College and worked part-time at Sunshine Food Market as a shelf stocker and carryout boy. Mark graduated in July 1958 as a junior accountant.

Due to the conditions in Laos and Vietnam, Mark joined the US Army on September 16, 1958. He flew to Ft. Carson, CO, for eight weeks of basic training and then to Ft Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX, for three months of medical training. Mark then flew to Augusta, GA, where he was sent to the Savannah River Defense Post near Aiken, SC, on the Dupont reservation, a 75 mm gun post, which was deactivated in December 1959. He transferred to a Nike Missile Site at Westview, PA, near Pittsburgh. He was honorably discharged on September 15, 1960, with the rank of PFC.

Mark returned home, moved to Sioux Falls, and started a lifetime of many jobs. He often jokingly said he was a jack of all trades and a master of none. He worked at Brown Drug, Wholesale House, a hatchery in Redfield, a veterinary clinic, and Purina Foods. Mark was then a business manager for a Chevrolet and John Deere dealership in Redfield. In September of 1976, he became a Lutheran Brotherhood insurance representative for twelve years. He also worked for other insurance agencies, County Atlas, Aerial Photos of farms, and was a building contractor from 1991 to June 7, 1999. Mark then went to work for the South Dakota Department of Corrections as a roofing supervisor until August 22, 2002. He was self-employed until October 1999, then worked for Rainbow Play Systems in Brookings, SD, and Daktronics, also in Brookings. Mark then worked for Scenic Concept of Lacrosse, WI, until he retired in 2016.

Mark married Mildred Nickisch from Redfield, SD, in April 1962. They had three sons, Mark Alan, Michael Steven, and Monte Gregg. They moved to Redfield in 1964 and then to Wolsey, SD, in 1977. They divorced in December 1987. In September 1990, he married Leona (Lee) Baysinger in Redfield, SD. She has two daughters and one son.

Mark loved telling jokes and stories. His grandfather, Art Nelson, was a good storyteller, and Mark said that with his own humor, he took jokes and storytelling to a new level.

Mark is survived by his wife, Lee; three sons, Mark (Amy) Tisland, Pheonix, AZ, Mike (Angie) Tisland, Huron, SD, and Monte Tisland, Tea, SD; three grandsons; two granddaughters; two great-grandsons with a third on the way; his sister-in-law, Dorothy Tisland, Kalamazoo, MI; three step-children, Dawn Kopplin, Redfield, SD, Kelly (Dean) Knippling, Mitchell, SD, and Jason (Daniella) Aslesen, El Paso, TX; three step-grandsons; five step-granddaughters; many nieces and nephews; and friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Mishele; parents, Carl and June; and two siblings, Dawn and Conrad.

March 30, 1970 – April 21, 2026

Ryan A. Gienapp, 56, of Brandon, SD, passed away tragically on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, after being hit by a car while doing something he loved, running.

A Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m., on Monday, April 27th, 2026, at Brandon Lutheran Church, with a Memorial Service beginning at 1:00 p.m. A livestream of the service will be available to watch by clicking HERE. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to B-Squad Dog Rescue or your favorite charity in Ryan’s memory.

Ryan Anthony Gienapp was born on March 30, 1970, in Sioux Falls, SD, to David and Nancy Gienapp. His family moved to Madison, SD, in 1976, where, unbeknownst at that time, he would meet his future wife, Amy, when their dads joined forces at the law firm Arneson, Issenhuth, and Gienapp. Ryan graduated from Madison High School in 1988. Ryan achieved high academic honors, receiving his Pharmacy Doctorate from the University of Wyoming and graduating in 1993.

In college, Ryan met the most wonderful friends who carried through to the day of his passing. He was set to leave on an annual Colorado mountain biking trip with some of those friends the day after he was sadly taken from this earth.

Ryan and Amy (Issenhuth) were united in marriage on September 10, 1994. They were blessed with four amazing children who were the center of their world.

Ryan was a pharmacist with Walgreens for over 30 years. His dedication to his coworkers and customers was a testament to his caring and professional nature that will be difficult to duplicate.

Ryan and Amy lived in Colorado for 7 years, along with many college friends. They moved to Brandon, SD, in 1999, to be closer to their parents and to return to their roots.

Ryan loved the outdoors – whether it was hiking, running, golfing, fly-fishing, or mountain-biking – it didn’t matter, as he wasn’t one to sit idle for long. He was the driving force behind many adventures, which included climbing 14ers in Colorado with his family. He was an amazing cook and loved seeing others enjoy what he made. That brought him more joy than the cooking itself. His homemade pizza and stromboli will be missed by many.

Ryan was a dedicated son, husband, dad, brother, uncle, and friend. We are all blessed to have him in our lives, although the time was too short and we wish for more days. We will all carry on in his honor.

Ryan will be deeply missed by his wife, Amy; children, Quinn, Evan, Jillian, and Ella; his parents, David and Nancy Gienapp; his sister, Tracy (Ross) Crum; nieces, Katie and Caroline; brother-in-law, Tom Issenhuth; nephews, Noah and Lucas; sister-in-law, Tracey (Jim) Tomassetti; nephews, Nick, Jake, Chris, and Ben; Ryan is also survived by numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and the Colorado/Wyoming crew who were considered family.

Ryan is preceded in death by his in-laws, Sharon Issenhuth and Tom and Monie Issenhuth.

Please, remember Ryan as you listen to music, eat good food, hear a funny joke, or enjoy outdoor adventures.

October 7, 1948 ~ April 16, 2026

Judith “Judy” H. Gullickson, 77, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital.

A Celebration of Life Open House with family present will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD. In lieu of flowers please make a charitable donation to the cancer charity of your choice.

Judith “Judy” Helen Gullickson was born on October 7, 1948, in Flandreau, SD, to Kenneth and Alice (Krall) Gullickson. She attended school in both Flandreau and Sioux Falls, graduating from O’Gorman High School in 1966.

Judy worked in commercial insurance for 55 years. She enjoyed playing cards, spending time with friends, and doing jigsaw puzzles.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Melissa Gullickson of Sioux Falls, SD; her older brother, William “Bill” (Kathy) Gullickson, Cliftonpark, NY; eleven nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

Judy was preceded in death by her mother and father, Kenneth and Alice; her brother, Kenneth (Ken) Gullickson; sister-in-law, Joan (Fischenich) Gullickson; and brother, James “Jim” Gullickson.

Judy was loved by many!

July 3, 1987 ~ April 14, 2026

Casey C. Monegue, 38, Sioux Falls, SD, died on April 14, 2026 in Sioux Falls.

Casey’s ashes will be spread at a later date.

Casey Colleen Shepard Monegue was born on July 3, 1987, in Edina, MN, to John and Mary (Coutier) Shepard. She grew up in Lexington, KY, and attended Lexington Catholic High School. Casey graduated from Tates Creek High School.

Casey was the beloved daughter of John and Mary Shepard. Besides her parents, she is survived by her daughter, Zuri; her sisters, Kelly, Molly, Clancy, and Shelby; as well as nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Casey is preceded in death by her infant son, Brenden, and her brother, Albert.