February 22, 1933 ~ October 3, 2022

   Joyce Monger, 89, Sioux Falls, formerly Brandon, passed away peacefully Monday October 3, 2022, at Avera McKennan Hospital, surrounded by her family.

   Memorial Services will be 2pm, Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Brandon Lutheran Church, with visitation beginning at 1pm. Inurnment will follow at Brandon Lutheran Cemetery.  

   Memorials may be directed to the Brandon Lutheran Choir.  In addition, because Joyce delighted, welcomed, and embraced any animals that her sons and grandchildren brought over to her home, please also consider memorials to the Sioux Falls Humane Society as well as Almost Home Canine Rescue.

   Joyce Lucille Baker was born in Nassau Minnesota on February 22, 1933, to Ray and Ida (Sorterberg) Baker, the sixth of nine children.  The Baker family moved to Sioux Falls in August of 1943, where Joyce attended Longfellow Elementary and Washington High School. 

   On August 2, 1953, Joyce was united in marriage to her best friend and love of her life, Lawrence Monger at First Lutheran Church Sioux Falls, SD.  They made their home in Brandon, and later Sioux Falls.  Joyce and Larry were blessed with two wonderful sons, Chuck and Don. Throughout their childhood, no doubt gave Joyce and Lawrence a run for their money.  Joyce delighted in the stories, friendships, and all the things the boys threw her way, welcoming all the cars, animals, and things that boys bring home! Continuing to laugh and remember all the antics and stories years later.  The love and support of family is something that cannot be replaced, and Joyce was never without that love and unfailing support.  She visited with Chuck every day on the phone, as well as visits after work, and on the weekends.  The bond between a mother and a son is unbreakable.   Joyce delighted in their time together.  She worked outside the home in the insurance industry throughout her career until she retired in 1995.

   Joyce and Larry were blessed with a beautiful daughter-in-law, Mary, and later 3 wonderful grandchildren, and then four Great Grandsons.  Throughout her life, Joyce uncontrollably doted on Laura, Casey, and Jacob, and later her four great-grandsons: Charlie, Ben, Henry, and Logan Stockland.  There is nothing that she would not do for her family, she was so proud of each and every one of them.   Later, her best days were visiting and laughing with her son Chuck, and playing with the Great Grandsons – blowing bubbles – playing catch- and watching them drive their trucks. 

   Joyce was a gifted seamstress, quilter, and knitter who shared her creations with many.  Her designs touched the heart of many near and far.

   Joyce is survived by her son Chuck (Mary) Monger, Granddaughter Laura (Dana) Stockland, two Grandsons, Casey Monger, and Jacob Monger; four Great Grandsons: Charlie, Ben, Henry, and Logan Stockland; one sister, Barbara Galland of Helotes, TX, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

   Joyce is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Lawrence; her son, Don; parents, Ida and Raymond Baker; five brothers, Kenneth Baker, Virgil Baker, Charles Baker, David Baker, and Les Baker; and two sisters, Eunice Buckley and Dorothy Farquhar. 

July 20, 1951~ September 27, 2022

Lyle Schlaak, 71, Sioux Falls, SD, formerly New Richland, MN, passed away on September 27, 2022, at Avera McKennan Hospital, following a car accident.

Visitation with family will be 2-4pm, Sunday, October 2, 2022, with a time of sharing at 4pm, at Heartland Funeral Home. Funeral Services will begin at 11:00am, Monday, October 3, 2022, at the Brandon Valley Assembly of God, with visitation beginning at 10am.  Burial will follow. A link to live stream the service is https://brandonvalley.online.church/

Lyle William Schlaak was born July 20, 1951, to Alfred and Luella (Tesch) Schlaak, in Waseca, MN. He attended high school at the Southern School of Agriculture in Waseca, MN, graduating in 1969. He farmed in rural New Richland, on the family farm, and then continued in agriculture throughout his career by working as a mechanic at John Deere, trucking, and buying and selling farm machinery.

Lyle and Diane Gottschalk were married on July 11, 1975, in Janesville, MN. Lyle and Diane have been married forty-seven years and raised four children together: Kari Rettig, Vermillion, SD, Kyle (Lisa) Schlaak, Cedar Rapids, IA, Katie (Gabriel) Waddell, Fresno, CA, and Kayla Schlaak, Fresno, CA. In 2016, Lyle and Diane moved from New Richland to Sioux Falls, SD.

Lyle loved agriculture, conservative talk radio (especially Rush Limbaugh), driving, and watching his children and grandchildren play sports. In fact, he attended every one of Kyle’s basketball games from middle school through college except for two. The family often gathered in his office (the smallest room in the house), joining him in watching classic television and movies (throwing in a bit of Rick Steves’ Europe here and there).

From trucking to Volkswagens, Lyle would get into a vehicle and just go. If you ever gave him a call, a good first question in the conversation was “which state are you in?”  Once he found a bailer on Craigslist that was in Montana. He had a bailer like this as a young farmer and he had been looking for one like this for years. He convinced his cousin to join him on an 18-hour drive just to check it out. Fortunately, he went with a trailer because that bailer came home with him.

If something didn’t work exactly how Lyle wanted it to, he’d tinker with it and overbuild it until it was better than perfect, from making legs on a ping pong table that would last forever to customizing an auger box for the new ridge-till system until the industry caught up (an idea that was later used by a major equipment manufacturer).

Lyle is survived by his wife, Diane; four children; eighteen grandchildren, Elisabeth (Taylor Gould), Jacob, Christian, Hudson, Hannah, Rockford, Victoria, Keira, Emma, Mercedes, Abraham, Benjamin, Caleb, Gracie, Micah, Reuben, Lincoln, and Gretchen; and one great-granddaughter, Makiah; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and siblings-in-law, Carol Schlaak, Eleanor Schlaak, Daryl and Carol Kohloff, Gary and Kay Gottschalk, and Ron Gottschalk.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Harlan, Kenneth, and Judy Leyk; brother-in-law, Kenneth Leyk; and sister-in-law, Joyce Wondra.

March 10, 1956 ~ September 20, 2022

Rose M. Swenson, 66, Sioux Falls, died Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.

Services are pending at this time.  Please, check back for further updates.

Rose Marie Hines was born to George and Ruth (Fauser) Hines in McGregor, Iowa. Soon after they moved to Clayton, IA. Rose attended school and then was tasked with taking care of her mother, when she became ill. After her mother passed Rose moved to Cherokee, IA, working on farms. Eventually, Rose moved to the Sioux Falls area, where she focused on hobby farming. Rose had three children with whom she moved to Brookings, SD. While in Brookings she managed a Super 8 Motel and helped at a women’s shelter. Due to health reasons, Rose was forced to stop working and returned to Sioux Falls.

Rose loved to go to Lake Thompson to relax. She enjoyed boating, fishing, camping, and hanging out with friends and her kids. Her real loves were John Wayne and Tom Selleck movies and playing cards or dice. Although she was blunt to your face, she really meant it with love. She was “everyone’s mom”. She would never turn her back on anyone. She would never say “No” to shopping or going to Frying Pan for coffee. Her fur babies were a special and meaningful part of her life.

Rose is survived by her three children, Phillip, Patty, and Paul; five grandchildren, Paul Jr., Corbin, Matthew, Dennis, and Ryver; and one niece, Karen Wilcox.

Rose was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Swenson; by her parents, George and Ruth Hines; two siblings, Jerry Hines and Judy Wilcox; and a special friend, Wyman Card.

January 26, 1967 ~ September 16, 2022

Tamara K. Goertz, 55, Brandon, died Friday, September 16, 2022, at Ava’s House, surrounded by her family.

Visitation with family will begin at 1pm, Thursday, September 22, 2022.  Memorial Services will begin at 2:30pm, at Heartland Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Sioux Falls, at a later date.

The service live stream is accessible by the following link: https://youtu.be/vKaHGA-xeDc

Tammy Kay Reiners was born January 26, 1967, in Sioux Falls, SD, to Terry and Joyce (Whiteman) Reiners. She attended Sioux Falls Schools and graduated from Washington High School in 1984.

On August 4, 1984, she married Scott Goertz. They raised two children, Sara and Luke, in Brandon, SD.

Tammy worked various jobs from in-home daycare, special education aide, and customer service manager.

Tammy enjoyed spending time with her family, doing yard work when she was able, and really enjoyed watching Luke in taekwondo. Tammy, herself, enjoyed taekwondo, where she earned a yellow belt.

Grateful for having shared her life are her ex-husband, Scott Goertz, Baltic; daughter, Sara Goertz (Nate), Brandon; son, Luke Goertz, Brandon; brother, Terrill (Nicole) Reiners, Belfaire, WA; sister, Jenni (Chris) Ludens, Chancellor; one grand-dog, Manny; three step-grandchildren; nine nieces and nephews; and one great niece.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Terry and Joyce; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Florence and Jack.

Tammy’s family would also like to thank Asera Care Hospice, Sanford Hospice Cottage, and Ava’s House for their extraordinary care for her. We will forever be grateful.

October 19, 1947 ~ September 3, 2022

Rachel A. Brouwer, 74, Valley Springs, died Saturday, September 3, 2022, at the Bethany Home in Brandon.

No services are planned at this time.

Rachel had a special friend- Larry Lape, who helped her get to all of her appointments. Rachel enjoyed seeing her two nephews- Owen and Gavin.

She is survived by her two sisters, Rebecca and Rhonda.

She was preceded in death by both her parents, sister, Renae, and nephew, Owen.

October 17, 1955 – September 3, 2022

Ramona “Monie” G. Issenhuth, 66, Sioux Falls, and formerly Madison, SD, passed away at the Avera Dougherty Hospice House surrounded by her daughters, sister, and brother on Saturday, September 3, 2022.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 8, 2022, from 10 am until 1 pm, at the Prairie Green Clubhouse. Memorials may be sent in the care of the family to Heartland Funeral Home, PO Box 451, Brandon, SD 57005.

Monie Gae Erickson was born October 17, 1955, in North Platte, NE to Glen Neil Erickson and Laura Mae Chance. She graduated from Parker High School in 1973. She wed Tim Begeman and together they had 4 daughters and resided in Madison, SD.

Monie loved everyone as they were. She never reminded us of who we weren’t – but rather loved all of us exactly for who we were. In a world that constantly reminds us of where we’ve fallen short or where we’re not good enough; Monie loved us all, no matter the circumstances. The wonderful encouragement she always gave us was so impactful and will be cherished forever. The style and flair with which she lived was evident – she was ever the art and fashion risk-taker; Monie lived boldly and securely. That courageous, motherly spirit was passed down to all 4 daughters as they continue to carry on her legacy as bold, strong, and independent women – willing to rise up at any time.

Monie later married Thomas Issenhuth and together they enjoyed traveling, socializing, and adventuring together. Through this marriage, many, many good times and escapades took place – most notably on Lake Madison. Their travels and storytelling and visiting of loved ones bonded them during their marriage of over 20 years. Her love and devotion for Tom were so evident late in his life as she loved and cared for him until the end. Her selflessness and sacrifice were a tremendous display of true love for all of us to witness.

Monie is survived by four beautiful and loving daughters, Kera (Jeff) Heier, Sioux Falls, Brandi (David) Pellerin, Bozeman, MT, Brittni (Adam) Punt, Sioux Falls, and Brooke (Peter) Boyle, Sioux Falls; one sister, Bonnie Gates of Sioux Falls, and a brother, Paul (Marivel) Erickson, Yuma, AZ; four nieces and nephews, and three stepchildren, and their families.

Grandchildren were especially loved and adored by Monie. When ‘Nanny’ would come around lots of love and spoiling always followed. Her love and giving were limitless – whatever they wanted to eat followed by whatever they wanted – Nanny never held back for her grandchildren. Nanny was so proud of them and loved all of them so dearly – exactly as they were. She is survived by ten grandchildren, Ryley Heier (22), Austin, TX, Samuel Heier (19), Lincoln, NE, Lillian Punt (15), Sioux Falls, Remy Pellerin (14), Bozeman, MT, Amelia Punt (12), Sioux Falls, Oliver Punt (11), Sioux Falls, twins, Jarvis and Nola Pellerin (9), Bozeman, MT, Lincoln Boyle (8), Sioux Falls, and Quinn Boyle (5), Sioux Falls.

Monie was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Issenhuth; parents, Neil and Laura; a brother-in-law, Chip Gates; and two grandchildren, Finnley and Evan Boyle.

May 27, 1929 ~ September 2, 2022

Elsie May (Trout) Heacock, 93, died September 2, 2022, at Palisades Manor, in Garretson, SD.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 12:45pm, at the Kindom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. (3200 E 6th St. Sioux Falls, SD)

Elsie May Trout was born May 27, 1929, to Benjamin and Ilah Trout of Tracy, MN. On October 3, 1954, she married Albert Heacock with whom she shared 55 years together, and raised their family of four children in Walnut Grove, MN.

Elsie was one of twelve children growing up on a farm. She learned to sew and garden, skills which served her well and she freely shared her knowledge with others. She loved anything natural and became well-read on the benefits of plants and herbs. 

Elsie is survived by her children, Willy, Kathy, Karen, and Wade; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; one sister, Inez; and many nieces and nephews.

Elsie is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Bert, and ten siblings.

We look forward to the time when the Lord’s Prayer is fulfilled and “God’s will takes place, as in heaven, also on earth.”

August 19, 1930 ~ August 9, 2022

One of Elk Point’s memory keepers, Mark Jones, 91, died August 9, 2022, at Avera Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD. 

Memorial Services will be Saturday, September 10, 2022, at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Eric Olson Officiating.  Visitation at 10 am with Service at 11 am followed by Military Honors.  Lunch will follow with fellowship and continued memories of Mark.

Mark Eugene Jones was born August 19, 1930, on a farm west of Elk Point to Harry A. Jones and Sylvia Murial (McClain) Jones. Mark lived most of his 91 years, short of 92 years, near or in Elk Point.

Mark was entrepreneurial at an early age. As a youngster, he had a paper route and in his High School years, he worked at a local meat market learning his meat cutter trade. He went to the Navy from 1951 until 1955, serving in Hawaii and Japan. He was a storekeeper supplying submarines and ships. 

When Mark returned from Service, he met Margaret Teply, and they were married on December 14, 1956, and enjoyed 65 happy years. They lived in Elk Point, and Sioux City. Mark worked at the Red Owl Grocery.  In 1960, they moved to Elk Point, opening Mark’s Super Saver which became the future Edgar’s Soda Shop, on Main Street.  The business grew, and they moved to the Council Oaks store with the grocery name changing to Mark’s IGA. Mark retired after 30 years. The life lived in Mark’s IGA holds an essential place of memories for the Jones’ kids and grandkids.  It was truly a community gathering place.

Mark was an active participant in many local organizations and associations. He was a Member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He was proud of the Thanksgiving dinners; how popular the event was to the surrounding community, and how members of the church were so streamlined to work to serve 800 plus dinners. Mark provided hands-on assistance for the new Immanuel Church Building. Mark was a member of the Elk Point Country Club from the start.  He was a member of Elk Point Commercial Club during his business years. He participated in the Elk Point Cemetery Committee.  He was also a lifetime member of the Elk Point American Legion Post #134 and was a Commander for several terms.  He was a lifetime member of VFW. He participated in Honor Guard for Military Funerals, Local parades, and Memorial Day Honor Guard in both Elk Point and Jefferson. Mark served several terms on the Elk Point City Council. Mark was a

Mark had a repertoire of stories about Elk Point. He was good nature in the telling of his life tales. He had a factual observation and a wit that made one laugh or ponder. He had many “old time phrases” that were perfectly phrased for the situation needing a quote. His wealth of historical knowledge of the area was priceless.  We will deeply miss the “Hey! Do you remember?” as the opening to family and Elk Point History Conversations with Mark.

Mark will be deeply missed by his wife, Margaret; four children; Denise (Randy) Briggs, Wake Forest, NC, David Jones, Las Vegas, NV, Douglas Jones, Nederland, CO, and Diane Jones (Brian) Larson, Rochester, MN; six grandchildren, Dana (Jen) Briggs, Cara (Aron) Nevin, Jake (Tiffany) Larson, Nick Larson, Dennon Jones, and Ali Jones; ten great-grandchildren, Taylor, Brad, and Adyson Briggs,  Celia, Sean, and Penelope Nevin, Dylan Ereth, Haley, and Caden Hyke, and Jack Larson; one great-great-grandchild, RoseLeigh Dodge, and another baby on the way; one brother, Harold (Carolyn) Jones; in-laws, Carl (Jan) Teply and Dan (Cathy) Teply; and many nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.

Preceding Mark in death were his parents, Harry and Muriel Jones; sisters, Eileen (Paul) Trauch, Lois Jones, and Ruth (Tink) Livingston. 

April 18, 1960 ~ August 23, 2022

Christopher Gerard Klein, 62, Pierre, SD, went to his Heavenly Rest, at the Dougherty Hospice House, in Sioux Falls, on August 23, 2022, after a brief battle with Cancer.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 12, 2022, 11:00 AM, at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Pierre. Memorials are asked to be directed to Avera@Home and Hospice, in Pierre, or Dougherty Hospice House, in Sioux Falls

Chris was born on April 18, 1960, in North Platte, NE, to Anthony D. and LaVerne C. (Peatrowsky) Klein. He grew up in Ft. Pierre and Pierre, attending school and graduating from Riggs High School, in 1979. After graduation, he worked for Harding Motors, for a brief period, before joining his dad, and working for Klein’s Office Equipment. When the family business was sold, Chris moved to Huron and was employed by the City of Huron, at the Huron City Landfill, and with the Huron Street Department. After suffering a back and shoulder injury, he was forced to retire early.

Chris continued to reside in Huron until 2020 and moved to Pierre at that time. He enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with nature, and he loved living near the river.

Chris is survived by his mother, LaVerne, Pierre; sisters, Katherine (Brian) Raecke, Mitchell, Barbara Klein, Ireland, Cynthia (Jeff) Schoppert-Pickett, Sioux Falls, and Amy (Brad) Greba, Belle Fourche; nephews,  Eric (Amy) Hoagland, Blaine Harrowa, Matthew Raecke, Matthew (Alyson) Schoppert, John (Emily) Schoppert, Paul (Abbie Johnson) Schoppert, and Christian Schoppert; nieces, Tanya Hardiman, Sarah (Steven) Berghorst, Lyndsey (Matt) Anderson, and Elizabeth Raecke; along with nine great-nieces and nephews, with another to arrive in December.

Chris is preceded in death by his father, Anthony; infant brother, Anthony; sister, Karen; brother-in-law, R. Scott Schoppert; and Paternal and Maternal grandparents; as well as numerous aunts and uncles.