Leland “Wendell” Ames
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.
Dear Betty,Connie and family, my heartfelt sympathies as you had to say “Good Bye” to your husband, dad, and grandpa. I have fond memories of when you moved to Brandon, taking over the lumbar yard, at church, and school. Through all your trials this past year, I pray the LORD’s comfort and peace over you all. Love in Christ, Judy.
Thank you, Judy. We had wonderful family time while we celebrated Dad’s good, long life. I appreciate your recollection of those years so long ago. Our church group did have a lot of fun together.❤️
Betty, Ron, Cindy, Tim and family!! I am saddened to hear the news of Wendy’s passing!! I have such great memories of your time in Alpena!!! May the knowledge that Wendy is with his Lord and Savior bring you peace!!! 🥰
Thank you, Karen! Mom is doing well, and our family had a wonderful weekend together celebrating dad‘s life. I often think about the wonderful memories we made in Alpena. I wonder if we would still recognize each other. ☺️
Ron and siblings, I’m so sorry to hear that your dad has gone to heaven, he’s in good hands with our father Almighty, Wendell was always a nice man, treated everyone with respect and kindness, I’m sure you all will miss him very much, you’re in my thoughts and prayers 🙏
Thank you Howard!
Betty, Ron and family, (from Ron’s classmates) we are sending our condolences on Wendell’s passing, such a kind and caring family man, a great business man, and a wonderful friend to many. God bless you all.
Pam, thank you for your kind words.
Betty, dad just told me today. I’m so sorry for your loss. Wendy was a good man.
Connie, I have asked staff at Legends to give Betty my love. I keep in touch with her via them and miss her dearly!!! I was sad to hear of Wendall’s passing…she had them reach out and let me know. He was a special man. Let Betty know I am hoping to get the open chance to come see her one of these days and give her the biggest hugs for me.