February 15, 1939 ~ September 12, 2026

Peggy Joan Paulson, 87, Brandon, SD, passed away at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Visitation with family present will be held from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home, Brandon, SD. Memorial services will follow at 12:30 p.m. Inurnment will be at 2:30 p.m. at Brandon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Make a Wish of South Dakota in memory of Joan Paulson.

Peggy Joan Christensen, second child of Alton and Mildred (Klein) Christensen, was born just after midnight on February 15, 1939, in Tracy, MN. Her identical twin sister had arrived 50 minutes prior, before midnight, allowing Jean and Joan to be twins with different birthdays. This was just the first of many “mirror image” differences the twins would share throughout their lives.

Joan graduated from Brookings High School in 1957. Following graduation, she attended Gordon and David Beauty School, which would later become Stewart’s, graduating in 1958.

On June 6, 1959, Joan was united in marriage to Loel LeRoy Paulson at First Presbyterian Church in Brookings, SD. This union was blessed with four children: Jodie, Lonnie, Lorrie and Jeanette.

The couple began their lives together in Sioux Falls before Loel’s career moved them to Huron, SD. After six years in Huron, they returned to the Sioux Falls area. They settled in Brandon, where Joan lived for the next 56 years. She used her Beautician license to bring in extra money while she excelled at her primary job of Mom. Joan was a prolific gardener of both flowers and vegetables. She began working outside the home once her youngest child began school. She made many friends over the years through her employment with the Brandon School system, and in Sioux Falls at both American Freight Systems and Charter Hospital. In retirement, Joan enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sporting, musical and school events. She also looked forward to watching her NBA teams, with Steph Curry being one of her favorite players. Joan and Loel spent 15 years wintering in Arizona and volunteered for over 20 years with Make a Wish Foundation of South Dakota.

Joan will be deeply missed by her four children, Jodie (Jay) Holtz, Sioux Falls, SD, Lonnie Paulson and Alice Huth-Derrah, Glendale, AZ, Lorrie Sonnheim, Sioux Falls, SD, and Jeanette (Steve) Reiter, Sioux Falls, SD; seven grandchildren, Shannon (Carl), A.J. (Kelsey), Micah (Alyssa), Brittany (Joey), Seth, Nathan, and Megan; six great-grandchildren, Jeremiah, Genevieve, JayLynn, Ember, Quintin and Kendon; twin sister, Jean Goedde, Goldendale, WA; brother, Jerry (Barbara) Christensen, Pierre, SD; and many special neighbors, relatives and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Loel; her parents, Alton and Mildred; her brother, Dr. Alton Christensen; and brothers-in-law, Merlyn Peterson and Ivo Goedde.

October 19, 1948 ~ September 13, 2026

Joan A. Dean, 77, Ree Heights, SD, died on Sunday, September 13, 2026, in Ree Heights.

Following cremation, Joan’s remains will be laid to rest at Bellevue Cemetery in her hometown of Bellevue, OH. Her family will also gather for a Celebration of Life — a fitting tribute to a woman whose own life was filled with faith, laughter, love, dancing, and a deep desire to help others.

Joan Allison Dean was born on October 19, 1948, in Bellevue, OH, to Marlin Otis and Lorraine Vera (Craven) Dean. Joan lived a life filled with faith, laughter, love, and generosity. She grew up alongside her siblings Charles, Bobby, Terry, and Marlene.

Joan was a devoted mother to Amy, Allison, Matthew, and Emily Saas. To her children, she was not only a mother, but also a best friend, a guide, and a constant source of strength. Her love, example, and influence helped shape the people they became. Her family continued to grow through the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren she loved so dearly.

Those who knew Joan will always remember her unmistakable laugh — that distinct little cackle that could fill a room and make everyone around her laugh right along with her. Her joy was contagious, and that laugh will remain one of the sweetest memories her family carries with them.

Helping others was simply part of Joan’s nature. Whether it was family, a friend, or someone who needed a helping hand, she was the kind of person who would give everything she had if she believed it would help someone she loved. She gave freely, loved deeply, and so often put the needs of others before her own.

Although her absence leaves an emptiness that can never truly be filled, the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the sound of that unforgettable laugh will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Amy Saas who is married to Richard Hastie and mother of Kiarra Hastie, daughter, Allison Bullion who is married to Jeremy Bullion and the mother of Hailey Cain, who is married to Tanner Lee Cain, and Austin Ehlers, son, Matthew Saas who is married to Becky Saas and are the parents of Shane Saas, Joey Saas, and Cody Saas, who is married to Lauren Wheeler Saas. Joan was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Marcy and Hayes, children of Hailey and Tanner, and there is Zayn who literally lived with Joan most of his life.

Joan is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Emily Saas; her parents; and her sister Marlene.

March 22, 1952 ~ September 11, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kathleen “Kathy” L. Asay, Sioux Falls, SD, on Friday, September 11, 2026. She passed peacefully at home, surrounded by her beloved family.

Kathleen Lea was born on March 22, 1952, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Lawrence White and Lucille Gregory. Kathy was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her.

Kathy’s life was a testament to her faith and her unwavering belief in the power of love and redemption. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, she is a citizen of heaven and is now home!!! Kathy would love to see all of you there!!! Call on the name of Jesus, accept him into your heart. Experience the miracle!!! I have. See you again Kathy 🙂

The essence of Kathy was reflected in her simple yet profound question to others, “Are you okay?” This gentle inquiry encapsulated her deep compassion and genuine concern for the well-being of those around her. Her kindness, warmth, and nurturing spirit were a gift to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kathy was a devoted wife to her loving husband, Dave, with whom she shared a beautiful blended family. Kathy’s legacy of love continues through her children, Adam, Brian, and Hannah, as well as Dave’s children, Michelle, Amy, Jami, Tess, David and Christina. Her kindness lives on in the hearts of her brother Mike and her sisters Mary and Susan.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Avera Hospice team, especially Ashley, Kayla, Montgomery, and Cheyenne, whose compassionate care and support provided immense comfort during Kathy’s final days. Your dedication and kindness will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Kathy, we celebrate a life filled with love and faith. Rest in peace, dear Kathy, in the eternal embrace of Jesus Christ!!!

January 6, 1960 ~ September 8, 2026

Laurie K. Wilkins, 66, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of those who cherished her.

A celebration of Laurie’s life will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at RWC Church, 811 S. Gordon Dr., Sioux Falls, SD 57110. A short committal service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, 25965 477th Ave., Sioux Falls, SD. Family and friends are invited to Fry’n Pan on E. 10^th Street in Sioux Falls from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. for refreshments and fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Laurie’s memory to the Veterans Community Project or Honor Flight.

Laurie Kay Wilkins was born on January 6, 1960, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Stanton and Joyce (Hartson) Anderson.

Laurie dedicated 25 years of her life to serving the City of Sioux Falls. Her greatest accomplishments however, were found in the love she gave to her family, friends, and community. Laurie had a contagious smile and a warmth that could brighten any room. She was the kind of person who never said no when someone needed help and was always willing to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or simply be there.

Laurie was a dedicated volunteer with the Veterans Community Project and Honor Flight, causes that held a very special place in her heart. Her commitment to honoring veterans was also a beautiful way of honoring her late husband, Randy Wilkins, whom she loved deeply.

Laurie had a true zest for life. She loved dancing to country music, riding and admiring motorcycles, crafting, and spending time with the people she loved most. Her puppy, Cinnamon, held a special place in her heart as well. Above all else, family was everything to Laurie. She had a gift for teaching others to embrace who they truly were and to live as their authentic selves. Her love, acceptance, and generosity will continue to live on through all whom she touched.

Laurie is survived by her daughters, Jennifer Law of Mason City, IA, and Jessica Law of Sioux Falls, SD; son, John Law of Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren, Taevyon, Sam, Jhamir, Caden, Kamilah, and Violet; mother, Joyce Hardeggar of Sioux Falls, SD; sister, Susan Lathrop of Sioux Falls, SD; brother, Clark Anderson of Coeur d’Alene, ID; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who loved her dearly.

Laurie was preceded in death by her husband, Randy Wilkins; fathers, Stanton Anderson and Don Hardeggar; sister, Sandra Lewis; brother, Jan Anderson; sister-in-law, Dorthy Anderson; niece, Angela Juhl; and aunt, Shirley Hell.

Laurie leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, kindness, and unforgettable memories. Her smile, her generous heart, and the love she had for her family will remain with us always. Though she is no longer here to dance among us, the joy she brought into our lives will continue to dance on in our hearts.

July 2, 1974 ~ September 10, 2026

Brent L. Antonen, 52, Sioux Falls, SD, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Dougherty Hospice House after a brief battle with cancer.

Visitation with family present will be 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Sioux Falls. Funeral Services will begin at 11 a.m., Wednesday, September 16, 2026, also at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.  Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Sioux Falls.

Brent Lee Antonen was born on July 2, 1974, in Estelline, SD, to Marvin and Joan (Rieck) Antonen. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Arlington, SD. Growing up on the family farm, he helped with chores, drove tractors in the fields, and participated in 4-H, showing cattle and pigs. He also enjoyed playing whichever sport was in season. Brent graduated from Arlington High School in 1993.  Brent recently said he wouldn’t change anything about his formative years. 

Brent attended the University of Sioux Falls, where he met his wife, Kristina Benson. They married on September 18, 1999, and raised three children: Austin, McKenzie, and Jayden. Brent worked as a commercial real estate broker and recently opened his own company, Antonen Commercial Real Estate Services (ACRES).

Brent loved sports, especially anything related to Michael Jordan. He also enjoyed hunting, golfing, and watching his children play sports. He cherished traveling to Hawaii, taking Jayden on golfing trips, joining McKenzie on soccer trips, and attending deer camp with his sons. Every Wednesday, he looked forward to golfing with a special group of friends at Minnehaha Country Club.

Brent had many friends, each of whom held a special place in his life. His warmth, generosity, and genuine interest in others made him deeply loved and respected by all who knew him.

Brent will be deeply missed by his wife, Kristina; children, Austin, McKenzie, and Jayden; his parents, Marv and Joan Antonen; one brother, Nathan (Lauren) Antonen; two nephews, Miles and Spencer Antonen; one niece, Morgan Bjorklund; father-in-law, Dr. Gail Benson; one brother-in-law, Jason Benson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

August 19, 1931 ~ September 10, 2026

Carol L. Peterson, Sioux Falls, SD, was called to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls. She was 95 years and 22 days old.

Carol Lea Main was born on August 19, 1931, in Hartford, SD, to Charlie and Hilma (Ruback) Main. She was the youngest of five children. Carol grew up on a farm. She attended a country school for eight grades, then graduated from Hartford High School in 1950. She attended Nettleton Business College for a while.

Carol started working at a book and magazine printing plant. Then she went to work for an insurance office in Sioux Falls.

Carol married Harry Peterson on April 13, 1952. They were blessed with one son and four daughters. While the children were growing up, Carol volunteered as a Scout Leader until the children finished Scouts. She volunteered at the schools and the church as well. She also took care of the neighborhood children when needed. Carol had many hobbies and did a lot of sewing, knitting, and crochet work.

After Carol’s husband passed away, she moved to Sunny Crest Village to be near her sister. She lived there for 29 years. She had many close friends, where she would help them out when they needed her.

Carol loved to travel with or without her family.

Grateful for sharing Carol’s life are her children, Gary Peterson, Brandon, SD, Karen Bauer, Loveland, CO, Susan (Clyde) Hoeppner, Sioux Falls, SD, Jane (Jim) Stansbury, Crooks, SD, and JoAnn Peterson, Gastonia, NC; 9 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Carol is preceded in death by her husband, Harry; her parents, Charlie and Hilma; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Norma Main; sisters and brothers-in-law, Delores and Art Summers, Cleo and Arnold Theel, and Jean and Keith Aldrich; and a great-granddaughter, Alexis Peterson.

January 20, 1936 ~ September 5, 2026

“Jesus answered him,”Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”  John 3:3

“For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”  John 6:40

We love because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19

Memorial Services for Fran will begin at 1:00p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Faith Baptist Church, Sioux Falls, SD, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial gifts for the family’s needs or to The Gideons International, Madison Camp, PO Box 116, Madison SD 57042.

Fran A. Stenberg was born in a farm house in Iowa just south of Elmore, MN. At two months old, he traveled on his first trucking trip. He graduated from Elmore High School in 1954. He was then inspired to be a trucker and drove for 18 years.

Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.  Proverbs 16:3

April 20, 1974, at the age of 39, he gave his life to Jesus Christ, asking Him to not only be his Savior, but his Lord also. Pastor Gayle Fischer encouraged him to become a board member at the Union Gospel Mission in Sioux Falls, SD, where God placed him as Executive Director for 43 years; June 1976 until he retired in June 2019.

Fran married Rory Rae Johnson and during their 39 years of marriage, they spent much of their time working together and traveled to many places. Their love for music and singing was evident during worship, concerts, and events. They sang their way through various hymnals on road trips. Fran also played the harmonica and enjoyed yodeling.

Fran was a man that loved to study God’s Word and proclaim it. He walked a walk of faith and prayer. He was a source of compassion and a pillar of strength and grace. He was devoted and unwavering in serving Christ and people. He loved the Lord and always had a positive outlook.  Fran often said, “I am just an old dog, a pointer dog, pointing people to Jesus so they too could find salvation in Him and learn from God’s Word.”

Fran became a Gideon on October 7, 1993 and loved this ministry passionately. His love for the Lord was evident in all that he did. He loved his Savior Jesus Christ.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you. 1 Peter 5:6

Fran is survived by his wife, Rory; children, Rodney, Georgia, Jolene, Tracey, and Josiah; grandchildren, Travis, Jennifer, Jessica, Nicole, Jeremy, Tony, Ecko, Rowan, and Faye; eighteen great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

May 15, 1931 ~ September 4, 2026

Ramona C. Moe, 95, Sioux Falls, SD, formerly of Brandon, SD, died on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Bethany Home in Sioux Falls.

Visitation will be 2-4 p.m., on Sunday, September 13, 2026, with a Prayer Service beginning at 3:30 p.m., at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon. Memorial Services will begin at 11 a.m., on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Eastside Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls. Inurnment will follow at Brandon Lutheran Cemetery. You may view the service via livestream by clicking HERE.

Ramona Carol Reed was born on May 15, 1931, in Waubay, SD to Lyle and Goldie (Krause) Reed. Ramona was older sister to Marjorie (Reed) Meyers. The family lived in Browns Valley, MN before moving to a Naval base near Reno, NV, where her father Lyle served in the Navy, during WWII. Ramona and her family, including Ramona’s infant son, Bernard “Butch”, later returned to Browns Valley, MN. It was while working for local families in and around the area, she met LeRoy German and they were married from December 1947 to 1956. The couple had three children, Ronald “Ron”, Cheryl, and Carol.

Ramona lived and worked in Huron, SD where she worked for a meat packing plant, before moving to Sioux Falls, SD. It was while working for Ethel’s, the first woman owned bar, in Sioux Falls, that she met Delphys “Del” Moe. Dad always stated it was love at first sight, but it took Ramona a bit longer. They were married on December 15, 1956, in Sioux Falls and had three children, Diana, Douglas “Doug”, and Cynthia “Cindy”. Ramona always wanted a large family, and they were the joy of her life. The door was always open, and family, friends and neighbors were welcome any time.

Ramona worked for Raven Industries and Sencore Electronics for many years. She later worked for the family trucking business, keeping the business records. When Ramona was in her mid-50’s she earned her CDL license, so she could go over the road with Del. They drove together for several years before retiring. Ramona and Del were married for 61 years, before Del’s passing in March 2018.

Ramona will be deeply missed by her children, Ron (Pam) German, Howard, SD, Carol (Johnny) Grimsrud, Andover, SD,  Diana (Wayne) Shotwell, Sioux Falls, SD, and Doug (Jayne) Moe, Brandon, SD; one daughter-in-law, Cathy Moe, Sioux Falls, SD, and one son-in-law, Lance Wollmann, Hartford, SD; fifteen grandchildren, Lisa, Lori, Chad, Josh, Emily, Shawna, Doug, Ryan, Joel, Sabrina, Anna, Grant, Michael, Mindy and Angie; twenty-five great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Ramona is preceded in death by her husband, Delphys (Del) Moe; three children, Bernard “Butch” Moe, infant daughter, Cheryl German, and Cynthia “Cindy” Selken-Wollmann; grandson, Grant Dupey; her father, Lyle Reed; mother, Goldie Walters, and stepfather, Matt Walters; son-in-law, Rodney (Rod) Selken; sister, Marjorie (Reed) Meyers; and dear friends Shirley and Ron Young.

September 15, 1937 ~ August 28, 2026

Marion “Mike” E. Nitz, age 88, of Brandon, SD, died on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Avera McKennan hospital in Sioux Falls with family at his side.

A Visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Heritage Lutheran Church in Brandon. A Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Naomi Stout will officiate. Burial will be at 1:00 p.m. at the South Dakota Veteran’s Cemetery in Sioux Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Heritage Lutheran Church in Brandon. You may view the service via livestream by clicking HERE.

Marion “Mike” “Opa” Earl Nitz was born on September 15, 1937, in Odessa, MN, to parents, Alfred and Berdina (Mantifel) Nitz. He was the second of eight children. At a young age his family moved to Ortonville, MN. While growing up, Marion learned of hard work by working by his dad’s side growing potatoes, painting houses, and doing other miscellaneous jobs. This was during the time of WWII. Marion enjoyed waving at the soldiers traveling through town by train. He was confirmed in the First English Lutheran Church. He graduated from Ortonville High School in May 1956 and joined the Air Force in December. Marion expected to ‘see the world.’ He went through basic training in Texas and specialized training in Illinois. Instead of seeing the world, Mike ended up stationed for three years at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City. He became known as ‘Mike’ during this time because he enjoyed reading Mike Hammer novels. After leaving the Air Force, Mike settled in Hot Springs, SD where he served three years in the local police department.

Mike met Mary on Labor Day weekend in 1958 through mutual Air Force friends. They were united in marriage on June 24, 1961.

Mike joined the South Dakota Highway Patrol in 1965 and was stationed in Miller, SD until 1977. Mike and Mary adopted three children: Michael, Matthew, and Melissa. In 1972, the Highway Patrol called Mike out to work at the Rapid City flood. He also served as a member of the SWAT team during his patrol career. Mike served the Miller community through his work as an EMT, member of the Lions Club, and volunteer with the Boy Scouts.

Back issues required Mike to retire early in 1983. After several moves, the family eventually established their home in Milbank, SD. Mike busied himself with various construction jobs and worked in a greenhouse in the spring months. Mike was a gifted woodworker. He built a cradle and rocking horse for his first granddaughter (and subsequent grandchildren) and many frames, shelves, and miscellaneous items for friends and loved ones. Mike also greatly enjoyed working in the yard and grew beautiful flower gardens.

Mike and Mary traveled throughout the years to visit friends and family in California, Texas, Idaho, Arizona, Georgia, Germany, and Norway. Mike was an active member of the Retired South Dakota Highway Patrol’s Association and actively attended their yearly get togethers. Mike’s grandchildren held a special place in his heart. He attended their activities and special events without hesitation until his health no longer allowed.

Mike is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary; his children, Michael (Jody), of Sioux Falls, Matthew, of St. Joseph, MN, and Melissa (Mike), of Brandon, SD; grandchildren, Kaija, Kjersti (Mitch), Eli, Caleb, and Ava; brother, Donald, of St. Cloud, MN; along with many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and three sisters.

October 22, 1980 ~ August 21, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Angela J. Juhl, 45, of Yankton, SD, known to most of us as simply “Angi”. Angi left us on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, leaving a void that can never be filled. With Angi’s departure, we remember a life lived with immense love and a constant sense of caring.

A Visitation will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home in Brandon, SD. A Memorial Service will begin at 1:00 p.m.

Angela “Angi” Joy Juhl was born on October 22, 1980, in Sioux Falls, SD to Carl Juhl and Susan (Anderson) Lathrop.

After she completed her education, Angi spent some time traveling around the country before joining the U.S. Army. Upon her discharge and return home, she used her GI Bill to attend Black Hills Beauty College and eventually opened her own salon in Yankton, SD.

Angi loved spending time with her family – whether it was going to the Children’s Museum, the park, the movies, or just vegging out at home.

Angi also loved colors – on her clients and in her own life. It was a symbol of her rich, royal character – loving, caring, perhaps a little crazy and chaotic at times, but always happy. The greatest lesson she shared with us is the importance of kindness and the act of showing love to one another. Her final act of love was donating her organs to help others live a longer, fuller life.

Angi is survived by her significant other, Angel Sanchez; daughters, Jaicia Juhl and Josalyn Sanchez; and her son, Josiah Sanchez. She is also survived by her mother, Susan (Paul) Lathrop, brothers, Robert Lathrop, and Michael (Cami) Lathrop; sister, Amanda (Greg) Thomas; grandmother, Joyce Hardegger; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and anyone lucky enough to have been included in her life.

Angi was preceded in death by her father, Carl Juhl; and grandfathers, Stanton Anderson and Don Hardegger.