In Loving Memory: October – December 2020

In Loving

M emory A quarterly tribute to the loved ones whose memory lives on forever in your heart. ~ October 2020 – Decemeber 2020 ~

Special Section

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Black Hills Pioneer • January 2021

A Quarterly Tribute

In Loving M emory Maurice Duane Adams Age 72 Nov. 15, 2020

During this time of uncertainty, when traditional celebrations of life are being put

James “Jim” H. Allison Age 92 Dec. 16, 2020

Garnette A. Ainsworth Age 98 Nov. 11, 2020

Richard Alpert Age 86 Oct. 6, 2020

Gertrude Louise Allison Age 85 Oct. 6, 2020

Clyde L. Becker Age 76

on hold, we feel it is important to honor the memory of our loved ones.

Shari L. Beigl

In Loving Memory

Age 66 Nov. 26, 2020

is a quarterly section

Beverly Jean Beringer

Donald Edward Bertalot

Age 88 Oct. 17, 2020

Age 68 Nov. 5, 2020

Ralph Bryant

Robert “Bob” Vane Burns Jr.

devoted to remembering those in our area that have passed.

This edition includes those whose obituary appeared in the Black Hills Pioneer

Betty June Brusseau Age 88 Dec. 23, 2020

Age 89 Nov. 20, 2020

between October 1, 2020

Age 66 Oct. 5, 2020

and December 31, 2020.

In Loving Memory is produced by the Black Hills Pioneer newspaper, 315 Seaton Circle Spearfish, SD, 57783, (605) 642-2761 (800) 676-2761 www.bhpioneer.com

Letitia Lister, publisher Mark Watson, managing editor Sona O’Connell, advertising manager Katie Hartnell, layout The publisher will not be responsible or liable for misprints, misinformation or typographic errors herein contained.

Publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising deemed not to be in the best interest of the publication. © 2020 BLACK HILLS PIONEER, all rights reserved.

Robert “Butch” Eugene Calhoon

Duane Lu Allen Bury

Jacqueline Ellen Butler

Age 93 Nov. 8, 2020

Age 83 Dec. 21, 2020

Ronald William Callies

Velma A. Carlson

Daniel D. Carsten

Age 91 Nov. 4, 2020

Age 58 Dec. 12, 2020

Otis Edward Chaplin

Nephi “Hal” Clyde

Ruth Cooper

Age 93 Dec. 2, 2020

Age 62 Nov. 4, 2020

Age 84 Nov. 19, 2020

Age 72 Dec. 4, 2020

Age 94 Nov. 16, 2020

January 2021 • Black Hills Pioneer

A Quarterly Tribute

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In Loving M emory Thelma Mae Davis

David Andrew Dickert

Helen June Deitrich

Age 107 Oct. 20, 2020

Age 54 Nov. 10, 2020

Age 89 Nov. 12, 2020

Kristi Lynn Dower

Randalei “Randi” Ellis

Age 49 Oct. 1, 2020

Age 67 Nov. 13, 2020

Wylda L. Gallagher

Martin Gaspers

Age 84 Nov. 11, 2020

Age 71 Nov. 11, 2020

Kendall E. Hansen

Caryl Mae (Watt) Fancher

Paula Marie “Polly” Dittman Age 91 Dec. 2, 2020

Ryan R.H. Ferdinand

Age 86

Age 41 Nov. 15, 2020

Bruce Warner Grunwald

Martha Elizabeth Gustafson

Age 88 Oct. 7, 2020

Age 71 Nov. 6, 2020

Judy “Lundin” Hanson

Leanna Kay Hanson

Robert Merritt Harvey

Age 72 Dec. 23, 2020

Age 71 Nov. 14, 2020

Age 91 Dec. 11, 2020

Mary Hatzenbiler

Dillon Heinzerling

Kenneth R. Higashi

Age 74 Dec. 4, 2020

Age 63 Nov. 25, 2020

Age 98 Nov. 26, 2020

Alfred Edward Honadel

Honora “Nora” Lillian Hussey

Dale D. Ingalls

Thomas Kumar Jackson

Age 86 Oct. 3, 2020

Age 105 Nov. 8, 2020

Annette M. Jenkins Age 103 Oct. 13, 2020

Age 86 Dec. 6, 2020

Age 22 Oct. 6, 2020

Andrew Plen Johnson

Edward Davis Jones

Age 81 Oct. 12, 2020

Age 69 Dec. 3, 2020

Age 93 Nov. 4, 2020

Russell Jatko Age 86 Nov. 22, 2020

Barbara Jordan Age 87 Nov. 28, 2020

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Black Hills Pioneer • January 2021

A Quarterly Tribute

In Loving M emory Everywhere

Evelyn Shirley Kelley

There was no time to say goodbye.

But this I ask – please do not cry.

Remember me as you think best, The happy time – forget the rest.

Look for me and I’ll be there, And you will find me everywhere: In the gentle touch of breeze That cools the skin or swirls the leaves.

In the scent and colour of flowers That gave to me such happy hours.

On sunny days, under sunny skies of blue, Just think of me, I’ll be with you.

In winter when there’s cloud or mist, The rain will give to you my kiss.

As wood smoke lingers in the air, Look for me and I’ll be there.

Where seagulls cry above the sea And surf rolls in so endlessly.

Among towering trees that soar above, In all these things that I once loved.

Look for me and I’ll be there.

You’ll feel my presence everywhere.

Age 89 Oct. 24, 2020

by Tara L. Collacchi

Arvilla G. Kivimaki Age 85 Nov. 3, 2020

Caroline C. Kennebeck Age 91 Nov. 23, 2020

Carolyn Sue Koan Age 76 Dec. 5, 2020

Helen Bernice (Hansen) Kirsch Age 88 Dec. 19, 2020

Beverly Lary Age 68 Nov. 30, 2020

Julian “Sim” Lebeau

Betty Loken

Age 61 Nov. 27, 2020

Age 90 Nov. 16, 2020

Joseph Robert Mack

Joshua Michael Maier

Florence Helen Maynard

Age 93 Oct. 21, 2020

Age 29 Oct. 5, 2020

Age 90 Dec. 9, 2020

Betty Ray (Larson/ Pfister) McInerney

Michael Allen McInerney

Leonard McVay

Age 89 Dec. 14, 2020

Brendon Lane Mitchell

Age 54 Dec. 12, 2020

Hon. Scott C. Moses

Age 6

Age 79 Dec. 5, 2020

Billy Norman

Ann Elizabeth (Tudor) Oldenkamp

Age 73 Nov. 16, 2020

Age 71 Dec. 20, 2020

William “Bill” Lyons Age 75 Nov. 11, 2020

Age 96 Oct. 13, 2020

Ronald “Ron” Keith Naylor Age 72 Nov. 19, 2020

Don R. Olson Age 91 Dec. 8, 2020

January 2021 • Black Hills Pioneer

A Quarterly Tribute

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In Loving M emory George A. Opitz Age 91 Dec. 6, 2020

Joan M. Page Age 89 Dec. 14, 2020

Phyllis Ilene Pietz Age 76 Nov. 13, 2020

Clarence Richard “Dick” Popelka Age 84 Sept. 15, 2020

Zelda “Faye” Overby Age 82 Oct. 20, 2020

Donald “Turk” David Peterka Age 71 Oct. 11, 2020

Dorothy Plate Age 88 Oct. 3, 2020

Joan Susan Rath Age 86 Oct. 4, 2020

Ella Judith Rock

Lorne Frank Ruzicka

Age 102 Oct. 5, 2020

Age 89 Oct. 17, 2020

Things to know before drafting a living will

During the prime of their lives, people typically don’t give much thought to scenarios in which they become ill or are facing the end of life. Sickness and mortality are not easy conversations to have, but it is important for everyone to approach these heavy topics with close family members so that individuals can rest easy knowing their needs will be met if or when their health falters.

An advanced healthcare directive — also known as a living will — is a legal document in which a person lists the specifics of medical care and comfort actions they desire should the individual no longer be able to make decisions for themselves due to illness or incapacity. The legal advice resource Legal Zoom says the living will may list certain things, such as whether life support is desired or if pain medication should be administered. A living will should not be confused with a traditional will, which is a legal document that explains wishes for financial and personal assets after a person dies.

Living wills also differ from living trusts, which address how assets will

ISBURG FUNERAL HOMES & ISBURG CREMATORY

be managed if a person becomes incapacitated.

A living will is not always a necessity if a person does not have strong feelings about decisions made on his or her behalf while not cognizant.

However, for those who do want to have a say in care, a living will is the best method for ensuring choices will be carried out. The following are some other questions people should ask themselves concerning living wills.

• Do I want to remove the burden of tough choices from my loved ones? A living will relieves grieving loved ones of the responsibility of making challenging decisions of invoking life-saving procedures or not — particularly if they’re not sure what you desire.

• Do I have firm feelings about life-saving methods? A living will allows you to spell out preferences on insertion of feeding tubes, if you want specialized hydration, if you want to be hooked up to life support if brain function is minimal, and a host of other scenarios.

• Is cost preventing me from drafting a living will? Cost need not be a factor in setting up a living will.

You can download a free template from any number of online legal sources. Local hospitals often have forms as well, which can be notarized for only a few dollars. These forms are generally comprehensive and can help you answer all the questions and write in specifics.

• Have you selected a trusted person to carry out wishes? A health care proxy, according to the American Bar Association, is a person appointed by you with the authority to make decisions for you if you are unable to express your preferences for medical treatment. Together with the living will, the health care proxy, also called a durable medical power of attorney, can fulfill your wishes accordingly.

A living will is an important component of medical and estate planning.

We are here for you during this difficult time Trusted Family Funeral Service Since 1957

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Black Hills Pioneer • January 2021

A Quarterly Tribute

In Loving M emory Joseph Merrill Schenk

Thomas Jay “TJ” Schmitz

Age 95 Nov. 2, 2020

Age 54 Nov. 26, 2020

Fay Shields

Robert Sliper

Age 92 Dec. 18, 2020

Age 84 Nov. 13, 2020

Robert Grant “Bob or Grant” Thomas

Robert Leroy Tofte

Age 74 Nov. 19, 2020

Gordon R. Vercoe Jr. Age 84 Nov. 30, 2020

Patricia “Pat” Hauck Wermers Age 84 Nov. 14, 2020

Knollie Sell Age 80 Dec. 9, 2020

Faina Vasilyevna Shcherbakova Age 83 Oct. 3, 2020

David “Dave” A. Smith

Gladys Evelyn Steinbach

Age 69 Oct. 31, 2020

Age 92 Oct. 18, 2020

Dr. Rueben Bumanglag Trinidad

Monte Lee Varland

Age 79 Oct. 3, 2020

Age 91 Nov. 4, 2020

Virginia Rose Walton

Katherine “Kathy” Jouce Wannarka

Merle Watts

Age 72 Nov. 10, 2020

Age 83 Nov. 18, 2020

Age 74 Oct. 27, 2020

Dorothy Marie Wiege Age 90 Dec. 22, 2020

Arthur T. (Dean) Wilson Age 83 Dec. 8, 2020

Age 82 Dec. 24, 2020

Nancy Mariann (Holso) Beshara Wonenberg Dec. 5, 2020

January 2021 • Black Hills Pioneer

A Quarterly Tribute

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Tips for writing an obituary Coping with the death of a loved one is never easy. Even those comforted by the acknowledgment that a recently deceased friend or family member lived a full life may still struggle with the sense of loss that comes with the passing of a loved one.

Upon the passing of a loved one, an individual is often tasked with writing an obituary. Some people may find writing an obituary is cathartic, providing an opportunity to tell a loved one’s life story and indicate how unique the deceased was.

Because writing an obituary is not something people are asked to do every day, it’s understandable if many men and women don’t know where to begin. Obituaries do not necessarily have to follow a formula, but the following tips can help people compose an obituary that conveys who their deceased loved one was and how much this person meant to friends and family.

Contact your local newspaper Some newspapers may have obituary guidelines that govern things like writing style and obituary length. Before writing an obituary, contact your local newspaper to determine if they have any such rules in place. Some newspapers may only publish obituaries written by their own staff members.

Do not feel obliged to include cause of death While acquaintances who first learn of a person’s death via an obituary may be curious about cause of death, loved ones of the deceased do not have to include such information if they are uncomfortable doing so. Many obituaries never

include such information, so readers likely won’t expect it. Those who are comfortable including such information in the obituary may find it helps them avoid having to answer numerous inquiries about the loved one’s demise at the ensuing visitation and funeral services.

Include biographical information Obituaries are typically more than simple announcements of death. Some simple biological information can shed light on who the deceased was and his or her personal and professional accomplishments. Avoid getting too detailed, as newspapers may not accept obituaries that are very lengthy. But biographical information like full name, place of birth, family (i.e., spouse, children, grandchildren, etc.), military service, place of employment, charity work, and hobbies can give readers an accurate idea of the life your loved one lived.

Include donation information Well-wishers who read the obituary may want to send flowers or make donations to express their condolences. Include the family preference regarding flowers or donations in the obituary. When requesting donations be made to the deceased’s favorite charity, include the charity’s full name and contact information or a website in the obituary.

Include visitation and funeral information Be sure to include the day, location and visitation hours for viewings. If the funeral will be public, include the day and time of the funeral as well.

Have the obituary ready one to two days before the services are scheduled Publishing the obituary a couple of days in advance of visitation hours gives loved ones of the deceased time to arrange to visit and pay their respects.

P icking

a final resting place Many people choose burials; others cremation.

Either way, you should be comfortable with your final resting place.

Consider your family’s needs and preference because, after all, they are the ones who will be visiting your gravesite or, likely, possess your urn. Don’t think of the decision as unsettling or even scary, but rather as necessary to help your family members choose your final resting place.

Burial

The burial process comes with plenty of issues to consider, the first being convenience.

Families choosing burials may do so to ensure they can visit the body for years to come. Nature also is an important part of the cemetery experience, so finding one with beautiful landscaping or expansive forestry can help provide a peaceful, natural environment for family members and friends to visit.

Cremation

The cremation choice is popular because of its convenience and the opportunity for family members to display a decorative urn holding the ashes of their loved one.

If an urn isn’t your top option, you could always plan a special day that includes the spreading of

your ashes across the ocean, mountaintop or river.

When planning such an event, consider who in your family will be able to attend and if anyone may be upset about not having an exact place to pay respects to the body. You should also pay attention to any local, state and federal regulations that may govern the distribution of your ashes.

Consider a marking

Whether the body has been buried or cremated,

a marker that bears the name, dates of life and loving inscription will help loved ones reminisce over fond memories and shared experiences.

You can also plan ahead of time to customize a marking with specific colors, shapes and sizes. And don’t forget to get creative with the marker’s design.

Find out if your funeral director knows of local production companies and make an effort to work with them to ensure a special maker.

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Black Hills Pioneer • January 2021

A Quarterly Tribute

P re-planning mistakes to avoid

© ADOBE STOCK

It’s never too early for Americans to begin the steps of pre-planning for their death.

While it can be a difficult subject to approach, ensuring your assets and financial wishes are organized will make things easier for your family. Unfortunately, creating your final plan is not a one-time situation. It requires diligence to ensure it is updated and on track.

To get a good estate plan in place, you should hire a financial advisor who is an expert in the process. They will give you advice about updating your insurance policies, assist in keeping records and create a will. When choosing an expert, it’s imperative that you feel comfortable because an optimal pre-planning strategy can be incredibly personal.

Check out these tips from the Institute on Aging to help avoid common mistakes when developing your plan.

Don’t avoid a discussion with family

This journey is not one to make alone. While it may be an uncomfortable conversation to have with loved ones, their input toward what happens after your death can help you make easier decisions.

F ind an

One topic you must address is who feels most comfortable when taking control of medical and financial matters if you are unable. There are two roles that must be filled when pre-planning.

A healthcare power of attorney is someone with the responsibility of making medical decisions when you cannot. It’s crucial to be clear with your wishes about remaining on life support and related circumstances.

A financial power of attorney is tasked with performing legal and financial duties such as transferring money, paying bills and delegating funds for other expenses.

When having this discussion, it’s essential to calm loved ones with the assurance that nothing is wrong but you are adamant about having a concrete plan in place.

Don’t forego funeral planning

Ensuring your funeral is planned and paid for will create peace of mind for your family in their time of grieving.

It also is a beneficial way to create a service that celebrates your life as you see it. Sit with a funeral director and plan the ceremony, burial or cremation options and disclose details of how you want to be remembered.

© ADOBE STOCK

estate attorney

The intricate details required to make documents legal are not worth gambling when estate planning. Your best bet is to work with an estate attorney who can ensure your belongings and finances are handled per your wishes after death.

Modern technology makes claims that those concerned with creating end-of-life plans can easily create documents through free or affordable websites.

But a local attorney is a safer bet.

When you’re researching local attorneys, it’s beneficial to meet with a few experts to gauge your compatibility. During your meeting, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys encourages you to ask these questions to understand an attorney’s qualifications and experience regarding estate planning.

• Does the practice emphasize a particular area of law?

• What percentage of the firm is devoted to special needs planning?

• How long has the attorney been in practice or the field?

It’s imperative to be clear with the goals you aim to accomplish when pre-planning so you’re both prepared to create a solid strategy.

What is an estate planning attorney?

When becoming an estate lawyer, a bar-certified attorney must specialize in estate planning to understand how to direct clients through the process. They are experts in the federal and state laws required to create documents legally.

Complex details Working with an expert estate lawyer is imperative when preparing your pre-planning strategy. Since each state may set its specific regulations and re-

quirements, their expertise is invaluable to ensure your assets are covered to full protection.

Some areas feature differing laws regarding property rights for spouses, rights for children to inherit and responsibilities for estate and inheritance taxes.

Avoid DIY planning When creating a concrete estate plan, it’s best to avoid DIY methods to save a few bucks. Since your final arrangements are meant to ensure your financial obligations and assets are legally appointed, mistake-free documentation is crucial.

An expert estate attorney can not only draft secure documentation, but they will stand by it and update it as requirements change, or at a client’s request.

Preserve your families history by placing an obituary in your local newspaper Placing an obituary in the newspaper may seem overwhelming, but it tells the community how to pay their respects and can notify distant family and friends that your loved one has passed. An obituary memorializes a life in a lasting tribute, a permanent record of their legacy, available for history and genealogy purposes for generations to come.

View and place obituaries at www.bhpioneer.com/obituaries, contact us at obits@bhpioneer.com or call 605-642-2761 to find out more.