October 29, 1956 ~ December 14, 2024

Barbara “Barb” A. Zobrist, 68, Brandon, SD, passed away comfortably, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Dougherty Hospice House, after experiencing a sudden and insurmountable medical event.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2pm on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home. The service may be viewed online by clicking HERE.

Barb always appreciated the work done by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and her family is thankful for the care she received at the Dougherty Hospice House. Please consider a donation to either of these wonderful organizations in her honor.

Barbara Alice Birath was born on October 29, 1956, in Brookings, SD, to Harry and Mardella (Smith) Birath. She was their only daughter and was born on her parents’ wedding anniversary, making it the best gift they ever received.

Barb moved to Lake Preston before starting high school. She was initially upset by the move because there was no swim team for her to join, despite the school mascot ironically being The Divers. However, she ended up making life-long friends among her class of 32 people.

Barb married Doug Zobrist in 1987 and was blessed with two daughters from that union.

Barb held a variety of interesting jobs during her life but her years as a florist were most notable as she had a passion for flowers and a gift for arranging and caring for them. She worked for many years at Citibank where she again made life-long friends.

Barb loved swimming, being in the sun, reading, house plants, correcting people’s grammar, and all her family and friends. She was known for being accepting, warm, and fun-loving. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh.

Barb is survived by her daughters, Mara Zobrist, and Sarah Goth; three grandchildren, Caspian Goth, and Theobella and Leif Larson; brothers, Bob, Dick, and Tom Birath; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Mardella Birath.

December 14, 1947 ~ December 9, 2024

Rex W. Reed, 76, Rock Rapids, IA, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 9, 2024, at home, just days shy of his 77th birthday.

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

Rex Wayne Reed was born on December 14, 1947, in Pine Lawn, MO, to Chester & Dean (Brownell) Reed.

Rex was a proud veteran, serving four years in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1971. After his service, he dedicated his career to the Veteran’s Administration before retiring. On July 13, 1970, Rex married the love of his life, Sharon “Shari” (Snitselaar) Reed. Their love story began on the Demolay dance floor and continued for 54 beautiful years. He never missed kissing Shari goodnight – a testament to their enduring bond.

Rex was a man of many passions and talents. He cherished playing his treasured 1968 Martin guitar, which he had dreamed of owning and saved up to purchase at the age of 22. He found joy in fishing, rock hunting, woodworking, yard work, and tinkering in his garage. His workbench was a hub of creativity where he spent countless hours crafting trinkets and fixing odds and ends. Known for his sharp wit and humor, Rex was a master of puns and practical jokes. His laugh was as contagious as his love for life.

Rex’s love for science fiction movies was unmatched – there wasn’t one he hadn’t seen. Those who knew him fondly remember his humor, warmth, and unwavering love for his family. May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A devoted family man, Rex is survived by his wife, Shari; his daughters, Brandi Reed, and Erin Reed; his grandchildren, Taylor Bogue, Sierra Reed, Alix Reed, and Tyler Bogue; his brother, Randy Boone; and his beloved canine companion, Sophie.

Rex was preceded in death by his parents, Chester & Dean Reed; his brother, Michael Reed; and his loyal dog, Webster.

April 12, 1965 ~ December 9, 2024

Kim M. Yager, 59, Brandon, died Monday, December 9, 2024, at her home unexpectedly.

Private family services are planned for later this week.

Kim Marie Yager was born on April 12, 1965, in Sioux Falls, SD to Jack Yager and Bonnie Savold. She was raised in Sioux Falls and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1983. Kim most recently worked at Grand Living at Lake Lorraine.

Kim was loved by many and will be missed tremendously. She was a friend to everyone she met and for those that truly had the honor of knowing her, knew that she had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. Kim cherished her family and looked forward to attending the many family dinners and birthday celebrations that went on throughout the year. She found immense joy in spending time with her nieces, Michelle and Katie, and her nephew, Josh. She was an avid animal lover.

Kim is survived by her father, Jack (Julene) Yager; mother, Bonnie (Denny) Savold; two sisters, Lisa (Jon) Yager, and Jessica (Stew) Savold; three brothers, Terry (Kimberly) Brower, James (Sherry) Alberts, and Shane (Amy) Alberts; stepbrothers, Chad (Brandi) Reimer, and Jeremy (Sheila) Reimer; stepsister, Monica Reimer; beloved nieces, Michelle (Brandon) Hildebrand, and Katie (Alex) Madsen; beloved nephew, Josh (Yodit) Madsen; special uncles, Frank Yager, John Yager, and Randy Reed; special cousin, Deb Johnson; life-long friend, Coralee Patch Multerer; and many more beloved family.

Kim was preceded in death by her beloved dogs, Shadow and Haley.

August 19, 1964 ~ December 2, 2024

James “Jim” B. Anderson, 60, Brandon, SD, passed away suddenly on Monday, December 2, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be 4-4:40 pm, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. A Prayer Service will begin at 4:40 pm.

James “Jim” Boyd Anderson was born on August 19, 1964, in Sioux Falls, to Jimmy and MaryAnn (Pennington) Anderson. He then lived in Oklahoma and Arkansas before happily returning to Sioux Falls and graduating from Washington High School.

Jim dedicated much of his career to driving semi-trucks, transporting everything from propane and fuel to building materials, mail, and agricultural goods. In his free time, he and his father enjoyed crafting concrete birdbaths, animal figurines, and urns, combining skill and creativity in their shared passion.

Grateful for sharing his life are his wife, Patricia; his daughter, Crystal (Tim) Myers; grandchildren Berkley and Evan; along with many other relatives and friends.

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.