Leslie Laverne Sachtjen, 90

Leslie Laverne Sachtjen was the seventh child born to Frank and Ida (Beckner) Sachtjen, on June 20, 1924 on their farm in Tripp County, SD.  He passed away Thursday, May 7, 2015 at the Community Memorial Hospital in Burke, South Dakota at the age of 90 years.

Funeral services were held May 11 at 2 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Burke with Rev. David Schmidt officiating. Burial was in Graceland Cemetery in Burke.

He grew up on a farm in Tripp County and as a young man helped his father.  Later, he worked on the Harry Carlson, Sr. family ranch.  It was at this time that a young neighbor girl of the Carlsons, by the name of Viola, caught his eye.

Leslie and Viola Kaiser were married on August 10, 1947 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Winner.  They lived in Winner for 16 years while Les worked for Grossenburg Implement.  During this time their three children were born.  In 1962, they moved to Burke as Les began working for Cerny Implement.  Later, Les and Vi purchased the gas station on Highway 18, which became known as Les’s Texaco.  His son, Terry, joined him in the business, which they ran together, and was later known as Burke Phillip 66.  He was involved in that business for 19 years.  Les and Vi, along with their son, Terry, and his wife Michaela then purchased True Value Hardware and was involved in that business until his retirement.  Les was known for his exceptional mechanic skills and ability to fix anything.  He had a love for reading books and newspaper alike. For the past 4 years, he has called Silver Threads his home where he has received loving care from some pretty special people.

Les and Vi enjoyed camping and fishing with family and friends.  Hunting was another passion he enjoyed.   Visits from the grandchildren brightened any day.  Spending time with friends was important to them as they got together to play Peg-It, Bean Bag Toss, and Pitch.  He thoroughly looked forward to the times when they were able to go to Texas to spend time with some special friends, old and new. Les was active in the community serving on the Burke City Council and being a member of the Burke Community Club.   He was a member of Grace Ev. Lutheran Church in Burke where he had served on the council.