Logan Wayne Thoene was born September 14, 1927 at Bonesteel, South Dakota to Fred and Lillian (Lunn) Thoene. He died February 7, 2016 at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota at the age of 88 years. Prior to his hospitalization Logan and his wife Leone lived in Sioux Falls at the Inn on Westport Assisted Living from the time that his health began failing.
Logan attended Bonesteel High School. At the age of 16 he took over the family farm and ranch when his father was struck by lightning and was killed. On March 9, 1948 Logan married Leone (Perlenfein) Thoene, the love of his life. To this union three children were born: Cindy, Fred and Shelley.
Logan and Leone operated the farm/ranch for most of their married lives where they farmed, raised registered Polled Herefords, and ran a grade A dairy, milking 100 cows. They also turned a hobby of making beautiful porcelain dolls into a full-blown business. Their dolls can be found in many states and in some foreign countries. They were honored when they were chosen to create the “official centennial doll” for the State of South Dakota in 1989. Logan and Leone moved to Sioux Falls in 1992. They also enjoyed their Florida home where they spent six months of every year.
Logan was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a kind and gentle man who loved his family dearly. He enjoyed working on the farm and raising cattle, which stemmed from his participation in 4-H at a very early age. He was also actively involved in the 4-H programs with his children. Logan loved making the porcelain dolls with Leone and taking them to shows. The beautiful flowers that adorned the Thoene yard were a source of pride.
In 1962 Logan was chosen as the “Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year” for the State of South Dakota. Over the years he was also honored with several conservation awards. Logan served on the Gregory County School Board, the local Bonesteel School Board, and the Pleasant Valley Township Board. He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bonesteel and later St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Sioux Falls.
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