Category Archives: Obituaries

Funeral services for Joseph L. “Joe” Fott, 82, of Hamill, SD will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at the Hamill Community Hall in Hamill, SD with burial in the Hamill Cemetery at Hamill, SD. 

Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, one hour prior to the funeral, at the Hamill Community Hall in Hamill, SD. 

Joseph Leroy “Joe” Fott passed away peacefully at home in Hamill South Dakota on May 17, 2024.

Joe was born on Nov. 26, 1941 to Joseph and Anna (Fortuna) Fott in Winner South Dakota, joining his siblings brother Lawrence and sister Adeline on the family farm near Hamill South Dakota.

Joe attended North Fairview grade school near Hamill and high school in Winner, SD, graduating from high school in 1959.  He attended Greer Technical Institute in Wilmington, Illinois for diesel and construction mechanics after high school.  Joe joined the South Dakota National Guard and did basic training in Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and served in the Chamberlain South Dakota Guard 200th Engineer Bridge Company until discharge in 1970.

Joe and Judith Mae Gordon were married on May 8, 1965 and had two children, Joseph Wade in 1966 and Joy Michele in 1969.

Joe spent his entire life farming and ranching on the family farm in Hamill.   Joe said that he had not worked a day in his life because he enjoyed everything involved with the farm.  Joe especially loved anything with an engine and wheels or tracks, and spent many long days in the seat of a tractor with a smile on his face and a steady hand on the steering wheel working on the farm.  Joe was happy to share his knowledge and offer a helping hand to his neighbors and friends.

Joe was a very outgoing and social person, meeting people and making new friends wherever he went.  Joe loved to take road trips when a good rain would pause the farming, wife Judy would hear “how soon can you be ready to leave?” and had many adventures while visiting many of the western states he would say “I wonder what is down that road?  Lets go find out.”

Joe loved to hunt and started hunting at a young age.  Joe and his family shared their love of hunting and the bounty of the Hamill farm with friends from near and far, making lifelong friends and lasting memories in the fields and hills.  In the late 1970’s, Joe hosted then South Dakota governor Bill Janklow for a pheasant hunt on the farm, this hunt was the start of what became the South Dakota Governor’s Hunt that Joe and his family helped to host for 25 years.

Later in life, Joe was not able to continue actively working on the farm due to physical limitations.  He did not want to retire from the farm, and always wanted to be out monitoring the equipment, crops and cows, and sharing his experiences and knowledge with neighbors and daughter Joy who is operating the family farm.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents Joseph Fott and Anna (Fortuna) Fott, sister Adeline Hight, brother Lawrence as well as his uncle John Fott and aunt Bessie (Fott) Petr and many aunts and uncle from the Fortuna side of the family.

Joe is survived by wife Judy (Gordon) Fott, son Joseph Wade and wife Wendy and children Joseph Stephen and Anna Helena, daughter Joy Michele and spouse Faye Heinis and Cynthia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to Hamill Community Hall or the Tripp County 4H.

Vonnie Robbins, 84, of Hamill, SD passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the Winner Regional Long-Term Care Facility in Winner, SD. 

Funeral services were held at the Masham Baptist Church in Pawnee, OK on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 10 a.m.  Burial followed in the Masham Cemetery.  A visitation was held on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at the Winner Orthodox Presbyterian Church from 4:30-5:30 p.m.  with a prayer service beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Vonnie was born April 5, 1940 in Pawnee, OK to Harold and Awilda Laird.  She grew up on the family farm attending country school and graduated from Pawnee High School in 1958.  She attended Oklahoma Baptist University for a time before marrying Wayne Robbins Feb. 27, 1960.  They were blessed with 3 children Kathy, Dawn and Amy.

They lived on the Robbins family farm in Pawnee, OK until 1976 when the family moved to Hamill, SD where they lived and farmed the remainder of their lives.

Vonnie was an avid seamstress.  She was active in the church first at the Masham Baptist Church in Oklahoma then the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Hamill.  For most of her adult life she played the organ or the piano for church services.

Vonnie is survived by her daughters Kathy (Steve) Morford of Spearfish, SD and Amy Gregg of Carter, SD.  10 Grandchildren Kristin (Derek) Meyers of Fort Pierre, SD, Kellie Morford of Kingman, AZ, Kara Morford of Las Vegas, NV, Dusty (Jessica) Adams of Hamill, SD, Stacey Adams of Pawnee, OK, Justis (Elisabeth) Gregg of Carter, SD, Jaynee Gregg of Madison, SD, Jentry, Jude and Jett Gregg of Carter, SD. Great grandchildren Kooper and Ella Meyers, Gunner Adams, Kacen and Liam Adams, Jackston Gregg and baby boy Adams coming in June, her brother Gordon (Sherri) Laird and son-in-law Rick Adams.

Vonnie was preceded in death by her husband Wayne Robbins, daughter Dawn Adams, her parents and sister Linda Leforce.

Wendell Ray Burtz, 67, of rural Winner went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the Avera McKennen Hospital in Sioux Falls. After dealing with heart problems for the past several months, Wendell suffered a cardiac arrest on May 11 at his regular Saturday morning Bible study in Winner.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 10 a.m.  at the First Baptist Church in Winner, SD.  Burial will follow in the Winner City Cemetery.  A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Winner from 6-7 p.m. with a prayer service beginning at 7 p.m.

The third child of Raymond and Berniece Burtz of rural Winner, Wendell was born on July 26, 1956 at the Baptist Hospital of Winner. He attended Greenwood School and graduated from Winner High School in 1975. After graduation he worked at various jobs in the Winner area and lived for a short time in California. He attended Oak Hills Bible Institute in Bemidji, Minn. from 1978-1980.

After that he worked at various jobs, including as a farm hand and an over-the-road truck driver, and then moved to Rapid City where he worked for Lien Metals for several years and also at Harvey’s Lock Shop. While living there, he became a member of Rimrock Evangelical Free Church.

On Feb. 14, 1987 he married Beth Nordeen in Rapid City and to this union were born Charles Wendell in 1989 and Kjerstin Lee in 1990.

In 1991 the family moved back to Winner where Wendell worked at the hospital and was an active member of the Evangelical Free Church of Winner. During those years he started Black Hills Flavored Honey, adding various fruit flavorings to pure locally produced South Dakota honey. The product was sold at gift shops around the region and was even featured at Bear Country at Disneyland.

In 2001 he started Integrity Locks and would spend the next 23 years of his career installing Kaba Ilco electronic locks at hotels and other facilities across the Midwest and beyond. He retired from the lock business in the fall of 2023.

A small engine and auto mechanic since his high school days, Wendell enjoyed restoring cars and building hot rods and at the time of his death was working on building a 1932 Chevy Coupe. He was a frequent attendee at car shows around the region and often attended Back to the 50s in St. Paul, Minn. in June.

He also had a lifelong fascination with aviation, owned aircraft and had taken lessons to become a private pilot. He has attended the air show, EAA AirVenture, in Oskosh, Wisc. almost annually over the past several years.

Wendell was also a builder, and constructed the straw bale house and shop overlooking the White River in northern Tripp County where he was living at the time of his passing.

Growing up in a musical family, Wendell was also a lover of music whose musical tastes ranged from the soft rock of the 1970s and 80s to the Christian music of Selah, Steven Curtis Chapman and Jamie Slocum.

Over the past 10 years Wendell had grown greatly in his faith and was an avid student of the Bible, often listening to the Scriptures being read by an app on his phone. He also had a deep appreciation for the preaching of Pastor John MacArthur, Ray Comfort and Paul Washer. One of his favorite biblical themes was “repentance.” For the past several years Wendell has been a member of Central Plains Evangelical Free Church in Chamberlain and was made an elder of the church in early 2024.

Wendell is survived by his son Charles of Winner; daughter Kjerstin Nielsen and her husband, Matt of Burlington, Wisc.; step-daughter, Teresa Nordeen Davis and her husband, Adam of Rosemount, Minn.; one granddaughter, Emberlee Nielsen; one step-granddaughter, Karli Davis; one step-grandson, Timothy Davis; brothers Durwin (Gwendy) of Massillon, Ohio and Ronald (Tammy) of Central City, Neb.; sister Koreen (Dennis) Caldwell of Macomb, Ill. and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and an unborn infant granddaughter

Bob Pierce, 88, of East Todd Township, passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at his residence.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at 10 a.m. at the Mason Funeral Home in Winner, SD. Burial will follow in the Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine, NE.

Bob was born on Aug. 23, 1935 at the Rosebud IHS Hospital in Rosebud, SD. His father was William Arthur Pierce and his mother was Violet (Walton) Pierce. Bob and his family first lived in Winner, SD for three years. While living in Winner, he had two close friends he met each morning on the corner, Mot and Mo. They would go downtown with their little wagon to pick up beer bottles left on the sidewalk from the night before. They were so happy to turn them in to get their spending money!

When Bob was 10 years old, he went to Black Hawk to stay with his maternal grandmother Mary “Minnie” (Eddy) Walton helping her through the winter doing various chores for her. While there, he developed a friendship with two boys about his age. Their father ran a sporting goods store in Rapid City. The three boys would always hitch hike to Rapid City with success. While there, they would have their favorite places to play and visit. They made sure they would get back to the Daughenbaugh Rod and Gun Shop for that ride home before their dad closed up. Sometimes their dad would take them fishing which all three boys were happy and looked forward to. In the coming spring, Bob was sad to say goodbye missing his grandma Walton and his two new friends.

Bob would graduate from Mission High School and went on the get a 4-year degree at Springfield College. After college Bob went on the teach at Viborg schools and later at Mission schools, he taught Industrial Arts.

Bob’s father worked for the Cattlemen Association from Texas. Later his parents moved to the Hidden Timber area and established a ranch there for several years. Bob would eventually take over for his elderly parents in the fall of 1959 and he lived there until his death. Bob followed in his father’s footsteps falling in love with the Quarter Horses and the draft horse, Suffolk, originally from England which was used during the war. Bob also raised red angus cattle which he was very proud of. Bob loved to tell jokes, laugh, a wonderful singer, and dancer in college.

Bob was a bachelor for many years until he married Sylvia Carol (Van Allen) Van Volkenburg when he was 70 years.

Bob is preceded in death by his siblings which include William Pierce, Ernest Pierce, Mavis Pierce, Leah (Pierce) Peed and Carol (Pierce) Schubauer.

Bob is survived by his nieces and nephews.

Carl King, 45, of Winner, SD passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at his residence in Winner, SD.

Funeral services were held on Monday, April 29, 2024 at 10 a.m. at the Winner Ideal Community Hall in Winner, SD. Burial followed in the Ideal Cemetery. Wake services started on Thursday, April 25 and continuing until Carl’s funeral on Monday.

Carl was born on Feb. 17, 1979 to Donald Dale King Sr. and Cleo Rouse King in Winner, SD.

Carl was preceded in death by his father Donald Dale King Sr.; Grandmother, Pauline King; and Niece Zaylee Inessa King

Survivors include his son, Dalton Moursted; his mother, Cleo Rouse; brothers: Dale King Jr. (Tasha Hopkins), Davis King (Samantha Dion-King), and Michael Palmer; sisters: Kathleen King, Seanne King-Mosley (Josh), Cherrie Roubideaux and Jonnie Storm; best friend for life Jamie Lynn, And his many aunts uncle, cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Karen Leslie Shattuck Hansen, a cherished mother, devoted wife, and beacon of light in her community, passed away on April 20, 2024 at the age of 84.

She was born on May 1, 1939, south of Gregory, South Dakota, to Dorothy and Harold Shattuck. Karen was the beloved firstborn of the family, with three younger siblings, Marvin, Mavis and Carol Beth.

Growing up on the family farm instilled in Karen a deep connection to the land and a resilient work ethic. She attended and graduated from Gregory High School in May 1957. After graduating she attended business school in Rapid City. She later returned to Winner where she worked at the Ford Garage. This is where she met Lewis “Louie” Hansen. On May 9, 1958, Karen married the love of her life, Louie. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

Karen and Louie were blessed with five children: Brenda, Todd, Troy, Kendra, and Kirsten. Karen’s devotion to her children and grandchildren was unparalleled, as she never missed any activities they were involved in, supporting them wholeheartedly in all their endeavors. Her love extended to her role as a grandma, or “Memaw,” to her seven grandchildren, and later as a great-grandmother to three.

Karen’s selflessness and giving nature were evident in every aspect of her life. She was named Volunteer of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce for her tireless efforts. Whether offering comfort to those in hospice care or opening her home to anyone in need, Karen’s generosity knew no bounds.

An elegant and put-together woman, Karen was known for her impeccable style and attention to detail, from her perfectly matched shoes to her radiant smile. She cherished the simple joys of life, especially gathering with friends for lunch and celebrating the milestones of those she held dear. Karen’s thoughtfulness extended to calling the local radio station to ensure the birthdays and anniversaries of her loved ones were announced, spreading joy to all who listened. She loved spending her Sunday mornings at the Winner Methodist Church, where she was a longtime and dedicated member for many years.

Karen’s legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her.

She is survived by her sister, Carol Beth Winters (Mike), her children Brenda Brown (Earl), Todd Hansen (Donnette), Kendra Hansen Best (Rex), and Kirsten Fischer (Chris), along with her grandchildren: Rojanae Williams (Jonny), Aryan Brown (Ryan Edwards), Aspen Brown, Brogan, Easton, Waverly, and Renner Best, and great-grandchildren: Lake and Seren Williams and Ayrro Brown.

Karen Leslie Shattuck Hansen will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her unwavering love, generosity, and the profound impact she had on the lives of those around her.

A gathering to honor and celebrate Karen’s life took place at the Methodist Church on Tuesday, April 23.  Karen’s funeral service will be held the following day, April 24, at 10 a.m., also at the Methodist Church.

Though she may be gone from our sight, Karen’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her love and kindness.

Sara O’Bryan Bradford, 22, of Colome, SD passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. 

Funeral service was held on Monday, April 15, 2024 at 10 a.m. at the Colome Vets Hall in Colome, SD.  Burial followed in the Colome City Cemetery.  A visitation was held on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at the Colome Vets Hall from 6-7 p.m. with a prayer service  at 7 p.m.

Sara Marie O’Bryan Bradford was born at 1lb 12 oz on Sept. 15, 2001 in Sioux Falls, SD. She passed away at her home on April 9, 2024. She was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Colome. Sara continued to love the Lord and read her bible and devotions faithfully.

Growing up, Sara spent time on the farm with her Uncle Ferman and Aunt Sally Harter. Those were special times for her. Sara received a horse from Julie Ann Farley which she named Star. They developed a very special relationship as she nursed Star to health and broke him to ride. During her high school years she developed physical limitations so she took an interest in photography. Sara especially loved taking pictures of rodeos, landscapes, and sunsets.  When relaxing at home Sara enjoyed reading books and writing poems.

Some of Sara’s fondest memories were working with Lisa Forgey at the Feed Mill. During high school she also worked at the family business, Dan’s Last Shot. She graduated from Colome High School in 2020. After graduating she went to farrier school in Nebraska. She later worked in Mitchell, SD cleaning apartments, detailing cars, and helping operate a clothing and candy store. Sara left Mitchell, moving to Gettysburg, SD where she lived when she met the love of her life, Dylan.

Dylan and Sara were married in Colome on Sept. 2, 2023. They lived for a time in New Evarts as Dylan worked for Bradford Construction with his dad. Later they moved to Colome where they both worked at Dan’s Last Shot. Dylan started Diamond B Construction in Colome, while Sara was employed at the Winner Stockman’s Café at the time of her death. They enjoyed watching movies together, going on drives through the countryside to the river, going to rodeos, grabbing ice cream treats and fishing at the river.

Sara battled mental health for many years but was loved and surrounded faithfully by her family and God.

She is survived by her husband Dylan Bradford, her parents Dan and Heidi O’Bryan (Colome SD), brother Kelly O’Bryan (Ellendale ND), parents-in-law Clayton and Roxana Bradford (Selby SD),  brothers-in-law Nathan Bradford and Cooper Bradford (Selby SD), sister-in-law Tomi and Thomas (Bridger and Peyton) Dryer (Selby SD), grandmothers Marty Bliese (Gettysburg, SD) and Eileen Tobin (Parkston SD), grandparents-in-law Donald and Kathleen Hauck (Mobridge SD), Robert and Betsy Bradford (Belen, NM), Yvonne Kohn (Selby SD), special aunt and uncle Sally and Ferman Harter (Colome SD) along with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by grandparents Ralph Tobin, Mick Bliese, Dick and Mavis O’Bryan, and grandfather-in-law William Kohn.

Loretta Diez, 60, of Apple Valley MN, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024 in St. Paul MN. 

Graveside service will be held on Saturday April 20, 2024 at 2 p.m. at the Winner City Cemetery.  A luncheon will follow at St. Mary’s Hall.

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, aunt and friend, Loretta Diez.  Loretta was born in Winner, South Dakota on April 8, 1963 to Rose and Carl Diez.  She was the youngest of six children.  She grew up on the family farm near Clearfield, SD and spent her first years of school attending Star Prairie country school one mile from their home.  She graduated from Winner High School in 1981.  She then attended the University of South Dakota where she made lifelong friends.

She enjoyed participating in pageants and was crowned Miss Winner, Miss USD and Miss State Fair.  Sadly, she was paralyzed in a car accident in May of 1985.  Even after her accident she went on to crown the next Miss State Fair.

In 1985, at the age of 22, Loretta furthered her education pursing a master’s degree in counseling psychology.  She had a successful career, culminating in building her own leadership coaching business.  She made such a positive impact on the many who had the honor of knowing her and she leaves behind a meaningful legacy.

She enjoyed spending time with her family and many friends.  She enjoyed the Diez family reunions in the Black Hills and loved to spoil her nieces and nephews and cuddle with her great nieces and nephews. 

Plays and concerts were among her favorite experiences.  Her trips to Rome, Barcelona, Paris, London, Venice and Florence were special highlights for her.

She left this world appropriately on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 2024 in the loving home and in the loving arms of her sister Margo in Saint Paul, Minn.  Even while her body succumbed to the cancer that ravaged her physically, she remained mentally strong and fought hard to stay with us.

Loretta is preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Rose Diez, and her brother Michael. 

She is survived by sister Monica (Bob) Muth, sister-in-law June Diez, sister Margo (Dan) Osadchuk, brother Jack (Starla) Diez, sister Merna (Randy) Greer and 14 nieces and nephews, 27 great nieces and nephews and her many friends.