Celebration of Life in Ministry Service

The United Methodist Church Dakotas Conference

Celebration of Life in Ministry Service

June 8, 2024

Worship Leaders

Presiding Minister, Preacher

Bishop Lanette Plambeck, Resident Bishop

Bishop Carlo A. Rapanut, Assisting Bishop

Ecumenical Representative

Rev. John Floberg, Episcopal Diocese of North Dakota, The Episcopal Church

Lectors and Worship Assistants

Rev. Melissa Gall, Order of Deacons

Karl Rockeman, Conference Co-Lay Leader

John Srtska, Conference Co-Lay Leader

Rev. Sara McManus, Order of Elders

Rev. Brandon Vetter, Board of Ordained Ministry

Dakotas Conference Cabinet

Resident Bishop

Lanette Plambeck, Dakotas-Minnesota Area

Director of Ministries

Rev. Rebecca Trefz

District Superintendents

Rev. Kris Mutzenberger, Northeast

Rev. Joel Winckler, Northwest

Rev. Dan Bader, Southwest

Rev. Rebecca Trefz, Southeast

Worship Coordinators

Rev. Lou Whitmer

Rev. Thanael Certa-Werner

Visuals and Technology

Doreen Gosmire, Communications Director, Dakotas Conference

Karla Hovde, Communications Specialist, Minnesota Conference

Dave Stucke, Communications Associate, Dakotas Conference

McCabe United Methodist Church

Musicians

McCabe United Methodist Church, Bismarck, North Dakota

Arva Dell Benz, Organist

Gloria Knoll, Chancel Choir Director

Nicoholas Mortenson, Trumpet

Ann Porter, Accompanist

Throuhout this program:

TFWS denotes The Faith We Sing songbook

UMH denotes The United Methodist Hymnal

Service

Prelude

Gathering

Prelude in Classic Style

Processional and Congregational Song God of Generations

God of generations, we are all your children.

To your church we bring our gifts, our worship and our song. Young and old we follow, hand in hand together, In your great love, together we are strong.

Christ, you welcomed children, called us to be like them, And received a boy’s small gift to feed a hungry crowd. In our church’s children, may we see you working: More than our future, they are faithful now.

Spirit, freely moving, giving youth a vision, By your grace young Jeremiah heard your loving call; Mary was a young one when she learned her mission: Through faithful youth, you offer truth to all.

God of men and women, Helper on our journey, You have called us in our faith to grow and to mature. May we keep on learning, worshiping, and praying, That each new day, we’ll serve you all the more.

God of generations, we are all your children. To your church we bring our gifts, our worship and our song. Young and old we follow, hand in hand together, In your great love, together we are strong.

Call to Worship

Bishop: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

All: And also with you.

Arva Dell Benz, Organist Music: Gordon Young

Words: Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, Music: Public Domain

Used with permission

Bishop: Let us worship the eternal God, the Source of love and life who creates us; let us worship Jesus Christ, the Risen One, who lives among us; let us worship the Spirit, the Holy Fire, who renews us.

All: To the one true God be praise in all times and places, through the grace of Jesus Christ!

All: Eternal God, give your grace to all servants of your church, that we may, with courage and faith, fulfill our various ministries. Be known among us now as we gather to worship and pray. Form us into a holy community of your own people. Mold us by the breath of your Holy Spirit, and reveal in this corporate body, the face of your anointed Christ. Amen.

The congregation is seated.

Ecumenical Greeting

Greetings from Rev. John Floberg, Episcopal Diocese of North Dakota, The Episcopal Church

The Recognition of Common Ministry and Reaffirmation of Baptism

Bishop: Ministry is the work of God, done by the people of God. Through baptism all Christians are made part of the priesthood of all believers, the church, Christ’s body, made visible in the world. We all share in Christ’s ministry of love and service for the redemption of the human family and the whole of creation.

Therefore, in celebration of our common ministry, I call upon all God’s people gathered here: Remember you are baptized and be thankful!

Congregation: We reaffirm our baptism and our common call to ministry. Thanks be to God!

A Time of Remembrance

Congregational Song

Memorial Video Presentation

For All the Saints Verses 1 & 2

Words and Music: Albert E. Brumley TFWS 2283

Anyone present who has been part of the life and ministry of those being remembered are invited to stand in honor of them as they are memorialized. Complete memoirs can be found on pages 10-22 of this booklet.

Clergy

Robert “Bob” Semrad, May 3, 2023

Duane Ewers, August 31, 2023

Lee Gale, October 15, 2023

Roy Caudill, November 1, 2023

Dr. Richard Unkenholz, January 6, 2024

Anthony Russell “Russ” Masartis, February 10, 2024

Donna Stewart, March 19, 2024

Lucian “Lou” Prohaska, March 20, 2024

Diaconal Minister and Clergy Spouse

Patricia Ukenholz, widow of Reverend Doctor Richard Unkenholz ( April 22, 2024)

Clergy Spouses

Amy Morrison spouse of Reverend Matt Morrison (August 5, 2023)

Janet Nelson widow of Reverend Walter Nelson (September 27, 2023)

George Frein spouse of Reverend Shelly Matthews (October 4, 2023)

Linda Mayer spouse of Reverend Richard Mayer (December 18, 2023)

Phyllis Klarup widow of Reverend Donald Klarup (March 18, 2024)

Eileen Wilson spouse of Reverend Peary Wilson (April 4, 2024)

Roger Sayler Sr. spouse of Reverend Judy Sayler (April 5, 2024)

Bernita Geiman widow of Reverend Donald Geiman (April 27, 2024)

Bishop: Let us join in prayer. Gracious and eternal God, all of creation is given by you.

All: It is by your grace and blessing that these beloved ones we have named shared life with us. We treasure all from them that lives within us.

Bishop: Hold them in your arms of mercy, as we hold them in our memory.

All: As we once again entrust them to you, may we know that peace and joy which is eternal life. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Congregational Song

For All the Saints Verses 3 & 4

Words and Music: Albert E. Brumley TFWS 2283

Recognition of the Retirement Class

Conference Co-Lay Leader: We celebrate the faithful service represented by this class of retirees and their spouses. On behalf of the laity of the local congregations and the many persons who were reached by the ministry of these persons, we offer our deepest gratitude.

Chair of Board of Ordained Ministry: On behalf of the Board of Ordained Ministry which has received their requests, and on behalf of the Clergy Session which has granted their requests, we honor these clergy entering a retirement relationship with the Dakotas Annual Conference.

Reverend Jeff Adel

Reverend Paul Budd

Reverend Barbara Krumm

Reverend Kathleen “Kippy” Udehn

Chair of Board of Ordained Ministry: Your calling has been an invitation to share in the most holy and tender moments of our lives: the sacred of the ordinary, and the power of sacred ceremony. Together we have struggled, laughed, cried, and grown.

Congregation: You answered God’s call to walk with us through our lives. You were there in moments of life, death, hope, despair, joy, and sorrow. You steadfastly offered to us the presence of the living Christ.

Conference Co-Lay Leader: Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, you shared your gifts, you sacrificed, and you learned.

Congregation: You helped us all to relate to the Good News of Jesus Christ when you held candles with us on Christmas Eve and sang triumphantly with us on Easter morning.

Chair of Board of Ordained Ministry: You brought care and compassion to families in grief, and guided others on their journey to eternal life. In your presence, we remembered that God does not abandon us.

Congregation: You reminded us that death does not have the last word. In discouragement, you reminded us that we are beloved sons and daughters of the Creator.

Bishop: Never underestimate that which God has already accomplished through you. Continue to be true to your calling, confident of the ever-present Spirit working through your lives. Let us join in prayer together:

All: Gracious God, you fill your servants with love and empower us with your Spirit. We give heartfelt thanks for the ministries of these faithful leaders, and for the ways that you have ministered to us through them. In the days that follow, make your presence known to them as they continue to love and serve you. May they, like us, continue to grow in the grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray.

Used with permission and adapted from the West Ohio Conference

Congregational Song

Christ Beside Me Words: St. Patrick’s Breastplate; adapt. by James Quinn Music: Trad. Gaelic melody TFWS 2166 Retirement class is given certificate and returns to seats during the singing.

Scripture

Sermon

Offering

Offertory

Proclamation

Isaiah 43:1 and Ephesians 4

Worthy of the Call

Rev.Karl Kroger

Bishop Lanette Plambeck

The offering from tonight’s service is for 2024 Miracle Offering.

How Great Thou Art

Words and Music by: Stuart K. Hine

Recognition of Licensed Local Pastors

We recognize licensed local pastors who have been newly appointed and those who have completed their educational requirements through graduation from Course of Study or Master of Divinity.

Chair of Board of Ordained Ministry: We embrace the many ways of answering a call to ministry and so we take this time to recognize, thank, and bless those persons who have answered the call to the ministry of a licensed local pastor. One of the following individuals was licensed and first appointed during the past year. Two will receive their license following the successful completion of licensing school in June and will begin serving as local pastors on July 1. We invite them forward at this time.

Richard Bensinger

George Keehner

Justin Trent

Additionally, we mark an important milestone in the ministry of the licensed local pastor—the completion of their educational requirements through Course of Study or a Masters of Divinity. We invite forward:

Jordan Bucholz

Kim Hastings

Tyler Johnson

Bishop: Your leadership in ministry is essential to our conference and together we declare it:

All: We are grateful for your covenant as servant leaders of God’s people. We send you, trusting that God will be generous with and through you, shaping your lives and leadership in both mysterious and concrete ways.

Bishop: Let us pray. We thank God for calling these persons and are grateful for their readiness to respond. Let us join with the Apostle Paul in a charge and blessing to them:

All: We pray that, according to the riches of glory, God will strengthen you through the Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. We pray with all the saints, that you may have the power to comprehend the height, depth, breadth, and width of the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge and be filled with the fullness of God.

Bishop: Now to the One, who through the power at work among us is able to accomplish far more than we ask or imagine, be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus now and forever. Amen.

Commissioning and Ordination

Presentation of Persons to be Commissioned as Provisional Deacons or Elders

Conference Co-Lay Leader: On behalf of the laity of local congregations who have examined and approved these candidates,

Chair of the Board of Ordained Ministry: and on behalf of the Board of Ordained Ministry of the Dakotas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, which has also examined and approved these candidates,

Both: we present this person for the work of a deacon: Cindy Heidelberger

Both: we present these persons to be commissioned for the work of an elder: Annie Carlson Stephanie Eliason Allison Galbreath

Candidates turn and face the Bishop.

Bishop: Sisters in Christ, this is a solemn hour in your life and the life of the church. You have shared in the ministry of all the baptized and have witnessed to Christ’s call to leadership among the people of God. Serving among us as faithful disciples, you have shown gifts and graces for leading the people of God in living and proclaiming the gospel to all people.

Bishop: Do you believe that you are called to the work of leadership and service among the people of God?

Candidates: I do so believe.

Bishop: Do you believe in the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?

Candidates: I do so believe and confess.

Bishop: Are you persuaded that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments contain all things necessary for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and are the unique and authoritative standard for the church’s faith and life?

Candidates: I am so persuaded, by God’s grace.

Bishop: Will you be faithful in prayer, in the study of the Holy Scriptures, and with the help of the Holy Spirit continually rekindle the gift of God that is in you?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you do your best to pattern your life in accordance with the teachings of Christ?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you, in the exercise of your ministry, lead the people of God to faith in Jesus Christ, to participate in the life and work of the community, and to seek peace, justice, and freedom for all people?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you give yourself fully to the work of God in the world and to servant leadership in the life and work of Christ’s church?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you be loyal to The United Methodist Church, accepting its order, liturgy, doctrine, and discipline, defending it against all doctrines contrary to God’s Holy Word, and committing yourself to be accountable with those serving with you, and to the bishop and those who are appointed to supervise your ministry?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God

Congregational Song

Together We Serve Verses 1 & 2

Word and Music: Daniel Charles Damon

During the congregational song, the candidates are robed. TFWS 2175

The Commissioning of Provisional Members

Bishop: Pour out your Holy Spirit upon Cindy Heidelberger, Annie Carlson, Stephanie Eliason, and Allison Galbreath. Send her/ him to be a faithful servant leader among the people, to lead the church in service, to proclaim the Word of God, and to equip others for ministry, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All: Thanks be to God! Amen.

Congregational Song

Together We Serve Verses 3 & 4

During the congregational song, the persons return to their seats, now among the gathered clergy.

Word and Music: Daniel Charles Damon

TFWS 2175

Presentation of those Ordained as Elder

Conference Co-Lay Leader: On behalf of the laity of local congregations who have examined and approved these candidates, Chair of the Board of Ordained Ministry: and on behalf of the Board of Ordained Ministry of the Dakotas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, which has also examined and approved these candidates, Both: we present these persons to be ordained as elders in Christ’s holy church: Michele Vallery Slott Janice Thompson

Bishop: My sisters in Christ, you have been called to ordained ministry. The Church now affirms your calling through ordination. As an ordained minister you are to be a co-worker with the laity, bishop, deacons, diaconal ministers, deaconesses, home missioners, commissioned ministers, local pastors, and elders.

Remember that you are called to serve rather than to be served, to proclaim the faith of the Church and no other, to look after the concerns of God above all.

Do you trust that God has called you to the life-time ministry of Word, Sacrament, Order and Service, which is the work of an elder?

Candidates: I do so believe.

Bishop: Do you believe in the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?

Candidates: I do so believe and confess.

Bishop: Are you persuaded that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments contain all things necessary for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and are the unique and authoritative standard for the church’s faith and life?

Candidates: I am so persuaded, by God’s grace.

Bishop: Will you be faithful in prayer, in the study of the Holy Scriptures, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, continually rekindle the gift of God that is in you?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you do your best to pattern your life in accordance with the teachings of Christ?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you, in the exercise of your ministry, lead the people of God to faith in Jesus Christ, to participate in the life and work of the community, and to seek peace, justice and freedom for all people?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: Will you be loyal to The United Methodist Church, accepting its order, liturgy, doctrine, and discipline, defending it against all doctrines contrary to God’s Holy Word, and committing yourself to be accountable with those serving with you, and to the bishop and those who are appointed to supervise your ministry?

Candidates: I will, with the help of God.

Bishop: May God, who has given you the will to do these things, give you grace to perform them, so that the work begun in you may be brought to perfection.

All: Amen.

The candidates will kneel before the bishop, as representatives join the bishop in the laying on of hands. Those who have been a part of the ordinand’s life and faith journey are invited to stand during the laying on of hands as a sign of support.

Bishop: Almighty God, pour upon Michele and Janice the Holy Spirit, for the office and work of an elder in Christ’s holy church.

Bishop: Michele, Janice take authority as an elder to preach the Word of God, to administer the Holy Sacraments, and to order the life of the Church; in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All: Thanks be to God! Amen.

An elder’s stole is given to the new elders by a retiring elder of the Annual Conference.

Foot Washing and Thanksgiving

As a symbol of servanthood, the bishop, assisted by a deacon, washes the feet of the newly ordained elders.

Congregational Song

The Servant Song

Words and Music: Richard Gillard TFWS 2222

Bishop: Gracious and loving God, we give you thanks for these newly ordained clergy and remember all who have gone before us in the life of ministry. May your presence be known to us. May you sustain us in the work for which you have called us. Continue to work in your people and raise up among us your faithful servants. Strengthen our hope so that we give you the glory as we give ourselves to others. In gratitude we pray.

All: Amen.

Invitation to Servant Ministry

All persons have gifts for ministry in Christ’s church, yet some are called to more specialized ministries. Servant ministry is offered in many forms, be it laity or clergy. Anyone who wishes to make a commitment to servant ministry, in whatever form it may take, is invited to come forward and pray with members of the clergy and laity of the Annual Conference.

Congregational Song

Here I Am, Lord

Words and Music Don Schutte UMH 593

Bishop: We thank you, generous God, for raising up among us faithful servants for ministry in your church. Clothe them in righteousness, and grant that we, with them, may glorify you by giving ourselves to others, through Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

All: Thanks be to God! Amen.

Sending Forth

Dismissal with Blessing

Deacon: Go in peace, open to the call and grace of God’s Spirit.

Bishop: The blessing of God’s unfailing love, Christ’s unceasing presence, and the Spirit’s unsurpassed gifts be with us all now and forever.

All: Amen and Amen!

Recessional

Congregational Song

Postlude

The Spirit Sends Us Forth To Serve

Words: Delores Dufner, OSB Music: USA folk melody TFWS 2241

O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing Arr. Eleanor Whitsett

In Memory Clergy

Robert Semrad 1944-2023

The Rev. Robert Semrad, 78, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at his home in Brookings, South Dakota, surrounded by his family. A funeral service was held on Monday, May 8, 2023, at First United Methodist Church in Brookings.

Robert Joseph Semrad was born on June 11, 1944, in Olympia, Washington, to Joseph Albert and Margaret (Bohaty) Semrad. He graduated from Harlan Central High School in Harlan, Iowa, in 1962. He continued his education at South Dakota State College in Brookings, where he met Jeanne Gaard. They were married in 1965.

Bob then transferred to the University of Montana in Missoula, where he graduated in 1967 with a degree in forestry. He entered the Air Force and attended pilot premium advanced Air Force Base in Oklahoma. His first assignment as a pilot was in 19th special operations squadron at Tan Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon, Vietnam. He flew more than 1,000 combat sorties. After his tour in Vietnam, he flew C-141 aircraft for five years from McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey and Norton Air Force Base in California.

After an honorable discharge, Bob completed the graduate course at Multnomah School of the Bible in 1976. He returned to South Dakota, where he worked for Job Service as a disabled Vietnam-era veteran outreach person, while completing a master’s degree in education at South Dakota State University. He then opened a Snelling and Snelling franchise in Brookings.

Duane Ewers 1935-2023

The Rev. Dr. Duane Allen Ewers, 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 31, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by loved ones. A memorial service was held on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at West End United Methodist Church in Westmoreland, Tennessee. His ashes were buried at Larkspur Conservation

He sold the franchise to go to the North American Baptist Seminary in Sioux Falls, graduating in 1981. He was ordained deacon and probationary member of the South Dakota Conference in 1981 and elder and full member in 1983. He served United Methodist churches in South Dakota at De Smet (1981-1982), Yankton-Gayville-Volin (1982-1985), Harrisburg (1985-1987), Big Stone City-Revillo and HazelHenry-Kellerton (Nov. 15, 1987-1990), Big Stone City and Hazel-Henry-Kellerton (1990-1991), Big Stone City and Milbank Parkview (1991-1998), and Madison (1998-2001), and in North Dakota at Fairmount-Bethany (2001-2005). He retired in 2005.

In 1997, he entered the Air Force Reserve as a chaplain and served in that capacity for 18 years. He retired in 2005 with the rank of Colonel. Bob and Jeanne moved to Brookings. He attended SDSU, graduating in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in visual arts. In 2021, he graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the SDSU School of Design.

Bob enjoyed art in retirement, painting with watercolors, oils, and pastels, and sculpting in wood, stone and metals. He was active in community theater, Toastmasters, the Brookings Art Council, and South Dakota Art Museum Guild, as well as Kiwanis, Lions, and Rotary International, American Legion, VFW, DAV, and Vietnam Veterans of America.

Bob is survived by his wife, the Rev. Jeanne Semrad; son Rex (Marion), of Owensboro, Kentucky; daughter Charlotte (Trayce), of Bushnell, South Dakota; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two grandsons.

in Westmoreland, with a graveside service for family.

Duane Allen Ewers was born on January 29, 1935, in Bottineau, North Dakota, to Lloyd and Alice Ewers. He grew up in Lansford, North Dakota, graduating from Lansford High School in 1953. He worked as an agent-telegrapher for Great Northern Railroad from 1953 to 1958. He attended the University of North Dakota and then Minot State University, graduating in 1961.

He married Helen O. Stenberg, and they had four children. They divorced in 1992.

The North Dakota Conference of the Methodist Church admitted Duane on trial in 1961, and he was ordained deacon in 1962. He attended Evangelical Theological Seminary in Naperville, Illinois, earning his M.Div. in 1965. He was ordained elder and admitted into full connection in 1965. Duane served Methodist and United Methodist churches in North Dakota at Velva-Benedict (1959-1961), BottineauGardena-Russell (1965-1971), Minot Vincent (1971-1976), and Fargo First (1976-1980). He served as Dakotas Area Program Staff (1980-1983). He served Bismarck First for five months in 1983. He was appointed to extension ministries, serving on the General Board of Discipleship and General Board of Higher Education & Ministry.

Lee Gale 1952-2023

The Rev. Lee Gale, 71, passed away on Sunday, October 15, 2023, surrounded by his family at the Salina Regional Health Center in Salina, Kansas. It was Lee’s wish to be cremated. A graveside memorial service was held on Friday, October 20, 2023, at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Concordia, Kansas, with the Rev. Mark Crist officiating.

Lee H. Gale was born in Concordia, Kansas, on June 17, 1952, to Dr. Mark Ernest and Jane (Boyd) Gale. He graduated from Concordia High School in 1970. He then went on to graduate from Kansas State University, Manhatten, Kansas, in 1974 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

Lee married Terri Williams on January 3, 1976, in Salina, Kansas. They had two daughters and were married for 40 years.

Lee was an operational manager for several retail department stores. In 1993 he received his master’s degree in divinity from North America Baptist Seminary in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He was ordained deacon and probationary member in 1996 by the Dakotas Conference and an elder and full member in 2000.

Lee served the Dakotas Conference at Brothersfield (19951996), Ben Clare-Rowena-Sioux Falls Hilltop (1996-1998), Mohall-Sherwood-Lansford (1998-1999), Hillsboro United-

Duane earned his Doctor of Ministry degree from Claremont in 1979, with additional studies at Oxford in 1987. He retired in 2000 and was honored as Jubilee Clergy in 2009.

Duane’s long life embodied what it means to be human: a generous spirit, an endless supply of grace offered to all, a delightful sense of humor, and faithfulness to all he touched. He was a teacher, a lifelong learner, and a pastor, sharing his wisdom with others throughout his life.

Duane is survived by his wife, Judith E. Smith; his children, Tim (Tammie Berghuis), Jon (Susie), Brian, and Beth Herman-Drake (Sean); his stepson, Tobie J. Smith (Katie); and the mother of his children, Helen Ewers; 12 grandchildren; his sister, Phyllis Petz; and a faithful dog, Dakota.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Don and Bill, and his sister, Edyth.

UMC/UCC (1999-2003), Grafton Federated-Minto PCUSA (2003-2014), and Grafton Federated-Minto PC-USASt. Thomas (2014-Oct. 15, 2014). He took a leave of absence and then retired January 1, 2015.

Lee’s motor coach service started for Ottertail Minn-Dakota Coaches. He later was a bus driver for Village Travel out of Wichita, Kansas. His last and proudest bus driving position was for the Cloud County Community College Athletic Department.

Lee married his Concordia High School classmate Marla Joy Jorgensen on August 12, 2017.

Lee was an avid Kansas State University and Chiefs fan, taking in all their games. Most of all he enjoyed his Cloud County (Dirty Birds) sporting events. He was a connoisseur of coffee and would welcome anyone for a cup and visit.

Lee is survived by his two daughters: Nicki Gale-Youngberg (Christopher), of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and Nanci (Mark) Wilson, of Minto, North Dakota; their mother, Terri (Tim) Shugrue, of Callahan, Florida; two grandsons; two nephews; and a niece.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marla Joy Jorgensen; his parents; his sister, Nancy Smith, who died two days before him; his brother-in-law, Richard Smith; and a great-niece.

Roy Caudill 1947-2023

The Rev. Roy Caudill, 76, passed away on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, following a year-long cancer journey and other health-related issues. A memorial service was held Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at First United Methodist Church in Sioux Falls.

Roy Braxton Caudill was born on February 7, 1947, in The Rev. Roy Caudill, 76, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, following a year-long cancer journey and other health-related issues. A memorial service was held Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, at First United Methodist Church in Sioux Falls.

Roy Braxton Caudill was born on Feb. 7, 1947, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to William and Belva (Kauffman) Caudill. He heard the call to ministry at the age of 12, after his baptism in the Baptist church.

Roy graduated from high school in 1966 and enlisted in the Air Force. After completing basic training in Texas, his service took him to many locations, including South Dakota; Illinois; Labrador, Canada; Guam, Okinawa, Japan; and New Jersey. A childhood love of airplanes developed into a career as an aircraft mechanic and quality control officer, as well as crew chief and aircraft systems instructor.

Roy met his future wife, Lazann Larson, while serving in the Air Force and working as a floor guard at a local skating rink. They were married in 1975 at the United Methodist Church in Harrisburg, South Dakota. Their adventure as husband and wife began immediately with a U-Haul truck and a long drive to their new home in New Jersey.

Roy graduated from Southern Illinois University at

Richard Unkenholz 1927-2024

The Rev. Dr. Richard Unkenholz, 96, died Saturday, January 6, 2024, in Prescott, Arizona.

Richard Allan Unkenholz was born on December 21, 1927, to Harold “Grant” and Isabel Unkenholz at Mandan, North Dakota, under very cold conditions. He came home to the

Carbondale, Illinois, in 1984, with a degree in occupational education. In 1986, after 20 years of honorable service, Roy retired from the Air Force as a Senior Master Sergeant. He and his young family then moved to Sioux Falls, where he worked at a variety of jobs.

The call to ministry heard in childhood re-emerged, and Roy enrolled at the North American Baptist Seminary in Sioux Falls. He and Lazann joined Asbury United Methodist Church, and Roy decided to become clergy in the Dakotas Conference of The United Methodist Church. Roy was ordained deacon and probationary member in 1989 and elder and full member in 1992.

Roy served at Humboldt Congregational Church, and then he served United Methodist churches in the Dakotas Conference at White Lake-Underwood (1989-1992), Canistota United (1992-1998), Grand Forks Zion (1998-2003), and Sioux Falls Sunnycrest (2003-2010). He served as superintendent of the Glacial Lakes District from 2010 to 2015, when he retired. He continued serving as interim pastor at churches in the conference, including Huron Riverview-Virgil, Brandon Celebration, and Sioux Falls Hilltop.

In addition to his love of airplanes, Roy enjoyed oldies music and collecting records, outer space and stars and the “Star Trek” series, superheroes comic books and memorabilia and movies, and reading books and spending time at Barnes & Noble in Sioux Falls.

Roy is survived by his wife, Lazann, of Sioux Falls; two daughters: Shiloh (Mike) Jones, of Rogers, Arkansas, and Shalaine (Jason) Rostomily, of Sioux Falls; four grandchildren; a sister, Christine Peters; and many nieces and nephews.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers: Billy and Bart.

family farm in a sled with heated stones under a fur blanket. He was confirmed at the Rural Methodist Church at rural Mandan, during the ministry of Grace Huck.

Richard married Patricia West. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Taylor University in Indiana, his Master of Divinity from Garrett, and his Doctor of Divinity degree at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois.

Together Richard and Pat served Methodist churches in the North Indiana Conference and then in the North Dakota Conference at Edgeley-Jud-Nortonville (1957-1963), Valley City (1963-1969), Bismarck First (1969-1975), Jamestown First (1975-1984), Fargo Calvary (1984-1989), and Williston-Grenora-Bainville, Montana (1989-1993).

Richard and Pat both took retirement from the North Dakota Conference in 1993. Richard was honored as Jubilee Clergy in 2000. He led Bible studies at Prescott United Methodist

Church and anywhere a Bible study needed presiding. Richard dedicated his life to The United Methodist Church and the amazing folks who peopled his congregations throughout Indiana, North Dakota, and Montana. He cared about the needs of others and tried to support causes that enriched their lives.

He was a member of Golden K Kiwanis and served on the board for the Open Door Community Center, delivered

Anthony Russell Masartis 1946-2024

The Rev. Anthony Russell Masartis, 77, died on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at his home south of Wall, South Dakota. A private family celebration of life was held at a later date.

Anthony Russell Masartis was born September 19, 1946, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Anthony and Josephine Masartis. He attended the Pittsburgh First Primitive Methodist Church, where he met his wife, Donna Lee Ceney, and preached his first sermon at age 15.

Russell and Donna married at their home church on September 9, 1967. At that time, Russell was a student pastor. He attended California State College in California, Pennsylvania, graduating in 1969 with his bachelor’s degree in psychology. He then attended Salem School of Theology in Pennsylvania and was ordained elder in 1973 in the Primitive Methodist Church. In 1977 he earned his bachelor’s degree in education from California State College.

Russ and Donna had an inspiring ministry living in the Pennsylvania communities of Rowles Run, WilkesBarre, Carnegie, and Pittsburgh (Lawrenceville); Lowell, Massachusetts; and Benton, Wisconsin. Together they started Bible studies, youth groups, GRADE program (Growth

Resulting after Discipleship and Evangelism), a fiber arts center, a winter walkers program, hot meal program, and several successful food pantries and thrift shops.

In 2006, Russ transferred from the Primitive Methodist Church to the Dakotas Conference of The United Methodist Church and served as director of the Tree of Life Ministry at Mission, South Dakota, on the Rosebud Reservation (20072015) and at Wall-Wasta United Methodist churches (20152023). Russ retired in 2018 but continued serving part-time at Wall-Wasta. He was honored as Jubilee Clergy in 2023.

Russ and Donna started the Open Hearts Cancer Care Ministry to reach out with encouragement to cancer patients in South Dakota. He embraced the simpler life in the Badlands and loved spending time with his dogs and other animals.

Russ was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in September 2023, and enjoyed his life with his family right to the end.

He is survived by his daughter, Donnalynn James (William Deppe); his son, Russell Robert (Cheri) Masartis; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Russ had one great-great-grandchild on the way, due in July 2024, that he affectionately called “Tator Tot.”

Russ was preceded in death by his wife, Donna, on April 11, 2022.

Donna Stewart 1933-2024

The Rev. Donna Stewart, 90, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, formerly of De Smet, South Dakota, died Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Funeral services were rescheduled to Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in De Smet, followed by The Order of the Eastern Star Service. Burial was in the De Smet Cemetery.

Donna Mae McGarvie was born on April 10, 1933, to Lee and Lottie (Garry) McGarvie in De Smet. The family lived in Cottonwood, South Dakota, at the time, then in Erwin, South Dakota, and later in De Smet. Donna graduated from De Smet High School in 1951. She attended Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell and taught in a rural school from 1952 to 1954.

She married Bert C. Stewart in 1954. They lived on a farm south of De Smet before moving to De Smet in 1963. She worked at the Jack and Jill store, the De Smet School, and the De Smet Good Samaritan Center.

Donna attended Huron College Huron, South Dakota, and then South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1985. She attended North American Baptist Seminary in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and received a Master of Divinity degree in 1989.

She was ordained a deacon and probationary member of the South Dakota Conference of The United Methodist Church in 1988 and an elder and full member in 1991. She served at

Lucian Prohaska 1938-2024

The Rev. Lucian Prohaska, 86, of Brookings, South Dakota, passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at First United Methodist Church in Brookings. A private family burial was held in Adel, Iowa.

Lucian Frederick Prohaska was born February 19, 1938, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Frederick G. and Nellie R. (Baker) Prohaska. He grew up near Earlham, Iowa, and was confirmed in the Earlham Methodist Church. Lou graduated from high school in De Soto, Iowa.

Leola-Frederick-Barnard UCC (1989-1993), Faulkton-Seneca (1993-1996), and Hitchcock-Broadland (1996-1999). She retired in 1999, and she and Bert moved back to De Smet.

Donna became the church organist and pianist in high school, and she continued to play for the church when she was the pastor. In the month before her passing, she played a digital piano for the chapel service at the nursing home in Sioux Falls.

She was an active member of the De Smet American Legion Auxiliary and Order of the Eastern Star. She was the Grand Organist in 1980 and again in 2000-2001, as well as the Assistant Grand Organist in 2010-2011.

Donna was a skilled quilt maker and enjoyed making quilts for family and for charities. She mastered the art of tatting and taught herself to decorate cakes. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and Solitaire on her iPhone and iPad. If you asked Donna if she wanted to stop for ice cream, her answer was, “I never say no to ice cream.”

Donna is survived by two daughters: Karen Brown, of Sioux Falls, and Susan Stewart, of Dickinson, Texas; daughter-in-law, Ronette Stewart, of Miller, South Dakota; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one greatgreat-grandson; a sister, Mary Lee Erickson, of Platte, South Dakota; and a brother, Darrell (Myra) McGarvie, of Belgrade, Minnesota.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bert, in 1999; two sons: Calvin and his wife, Diane, and Steven; and two sonsin-law: Earl Brown and Stu Fenley.

Lou met the love of his life, Karen Ballentine, and they were married on June 1, 1958.

Lou’s love of airplanes and flying led him to join the Iowa Air National Guard on his 17th birthday, during his junior year of high school. He attended Parks Air College in St. Louis, Missouri, after high school to earn his aviation mechanic certificate. He worked as an aircraft mechanic, serving with the Air Guard from 1955 to 1969 and achieving the rank of Master Sergeant in charge of the Special Project’s Shop.

Lou also served on active duty in the Air Guard in France from 1961-62. He worked as a jet pilot and chief mechanic for American Republic Insurance, and as William’s Pipeline mechanic manager. His work led the family to St. Louis; Adel,

Iowa; Carlisle, Iowa; Iowa City, Iowa; and Sioux Falls.

Lou felt a calling to serve God that began in his youth. After his last child graduated from high school, Lou enrolled at South Dakota State University, in Brookings, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1987. He enrolled in seminary at St. Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, Missouri, and earned his Master of Divinity degree. He served at Independence, Missouri, while finishing seminary.

Lou was ordained deacon and probationary member of the South Dakota Conference of The United Methodist Church in 1989, and elder and full member in 1992. He served South Dakota churches at Edgemont United UMC-UCC-Pringle (1990-1994) and Winner (1994-2000).

Retirement in 2000 brought Lou and Karen to Volga, South Dakota, where he enjoyed leading a number of studies at Brookings First United Methodist Church. He also was active in the Volga Lions Club and was a member of the American

Legion.

Lou’s passions were camping, reading, feeding his birds, and creating wood projects. He treasured every visit to the Black Hills. He enjoyed the colors of the Red Canyon, getting his buffalo fix, and watching the wildlife. He loved making things for others, and he had a wonderful sense of humor.

Lou is survived by his wife, Karen; a daughter, Laura (Morris) Cook; two sons: Dan Prohaska and John (Kim) Prohaska; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Lucia (Harlan) Mueller.

He was preceded in death by a son, Joseph Prohaska, and a daughter-in-law, Colette Prohaska.

In Memory Diaconal Minister and Spouse

Patricia Unkenholz 1930-2024

Patricia Unkenholz, 93, diaconal minister and surviving spouse of the Rev. Richard Unkenholz, died Monday, April 22, 2024, in Prescott, Arizona. Funeral services were planned for Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the Prescott United Methodist Church.

Patricia Nell West was born July 7, 1930, in Bowman, North Dakota. She was selected to participate in Girls State and was elected as their governor. She was valedictorian of her graduating class at Mandan High School, Mandan, North Dakota.

Pat graduated from Minot State Teacher’s College, Minot, North Dakota, with a degree in music education. She was a gifted pianist, organist, handbell ringer, and teacher of these disciplines.

Pat married Richard Unkenholz, and together they served Methodist churches in the North Indiana Conference and then in the North Dakota Conference at Edgeley-JudNortonville, Valley City, Bismarck First, Jamestown First, Fargo Calvary, and Williston-Grenora-Bainville, Montana.

In 1987, Pat was consecrated as a diaconal minister by the North Dakota Conference. She was the handbell choir and children’s music director at Fargo Calvary (1987-1989) and music coordinator at Williston (Nov. 1989-1993).

Pat taught, accompanied, and performed in these cities and their surrounding areas. Her love of handbells became her passion and vocation as a representative for Malmark Bells.

She led choirs, workshops, and Peace Garden sessions on conducting, performance, technique, and all things handbell and chimes. With the same degree of excellence that she exhibited with her keyboard skills, she rang solo bells to delight churches and audiences in many venues. Her influence as a musician will ring for generations to come.

Pat and Richard both took retirement from the North Dakota Conference in 1993. Richard died Jan. 6, 2024. The days without him proved insurmountable.

Pat is survived by her children: Mark (Karla Jean) Unkenholz, Jeanne (Robert) Kolberg, Carol Sue (Dan) Morgan, and David (Lisa Beuligan) Unkenholz; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two bothers: Bob (Marty) West, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and Neil (Carol) West, of Tucson, Arizona.

In Memory Clergy Spouses

Amy Eitemiller-Morrison 1971-2023

Amy Eitemiller-Morrison, 51, spouse of the Rev. Matt Morrison, passed away on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, after a 10-year battle with cancer. A celebration of life service was held at Central Church in Sioux Falls on Friday, August 11, 2023, with the Rev. Kip Roozen officiating.

Amy Sue Eitemiller was born November 23, 1971, in Brookings, South Dakota, and lived her early years in Wagner and Lake Andes, South Dakota. Her family moved to Sheldon, Iowa, where she met her high school sweetheart Matt Morrison. They were married on August 15, 1992, while attending the University of South Dakota at Vermillion, South Dakota. Amy graduated from USD with a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance in 1994. They continued their graduate work at the University of Northern Colorado at Greeley, where Amy graduated with a Master of Music degree in choral conducting.

Amy and Matt pursued a ministry calling that took them to Marion, Indiana, in 1997, and both served on staff at Hanfield United Methodist Church. Together, Amy and Matt served United Methodist churches in the Dakotas Conference at Sioux Falls Embrace, Mitchell Fusion, and Sioux Falls Asbury.

Amy taught music courses at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion (1997-2005) and the University of Sioux Falls (2006-

2023). She also taught private lessons from her home studios in Marion, Sioux Falls, and Mitchell (2015-2017). Her love of teaching voice led her to create a multi-teacher voice studio. In June 2023, Amy became the founder and owner of the Effervescent Voice Academy, where she held the role of “bubbly beasty boss.”

Amy contributed to arts education through the Dakota Academy of Performing Arts, Fairytale Operas, and the USF Theatre Department. She performed shows with several local theatre companies, served as music director and band leader for shows, and performed with Matt as “Two White Squares.” Her favorite roles included the title role in “Mary Poppins,” Lily in “The Secret Garden,” and Truvy in “Steel Magnolias.”

She had a singular sense of fashion, often accentuated by her signature polka dots and an individuality that was infectious. Her gracious spirit made people feel seen, loved, and valued. She was a source of inspiration and encouragement for others on their cancer journeys, but she never allowed cancer to define who she was. She lived life on her own terms and lived it fully until the very end.

Amy is survived by her husband, Matt Morrison, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; children Xander (Vinny) Morrison and Maia Morrison, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; her father, David (Marie) Eitemiller, of Mitchell, South Dakota; her mother, Marilyn (James) Lofflin, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; her brother, Casey (Heidi) Eitemiller, of Mitchell, South Dakota; and her step-brothers and step-sisters in South Dakota, Iowa, Florida, and Arizona.

Janet Nelson 1926-2023

Janet Nelson, 97, of Mitchell, South Dakota, surviving spouse of the Rev. Walter Nelson, died Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell. A private family burial was held Friday, September 29, 2023, at Underwood Cemetery in rural White Lake, South Dakota.

Janet Bonney was born on April 20, 1926, at Forestburg, South Dakota, to the Rev. Roger and Priscilla Bonney. She grew up in the South Dakota communities of Bruce, Hecla, White Lake, and Kennebec, where her father served Methodist churches.

Janet married Walter Nelson at Kennebec on December 30, 1947, with her father officiating. Janet worked in nursing homes and as a physical therapy aide.

Walt and Janet served in the South Dakota Conference of

the Methodist Church and then United Methodist Church at Rowena-Ben Clare (1947-1950), Elk Point-RichlandBurbank (1950-1953), Murdo-Okaton (1956-December 1961), Milbank (January 1962-1969), Beresford-Zion (19691972), Diamond Care Center at Bridgewater (1972-1974), Jenkins United Methodist Nursing Home at Watertown (1974-1979), Flandreau-Egan (1979-1982), Methodist Hospital in Mitchell-Ethan (1982-1985), Methodist Hospital in Mitchell-Mitchell First associate (1985-March 1987), and White Lake-Underwood in retirement (1988-1989).

Janet and Walt enjoyed taking their children—Bonney, Roger, David, and Ellen – on many camping vacations through the years. After Walt’s retirement in 1987, they traveled extensively for many years in their motor home, covering all 48 contiguous states. They volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build homes in Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Maine, and South Dakota.

Walt died October 27, 2017.

George Frein, 91, spouse of the Rev. Shelly Matthews, died Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at home in Fort Worth, Texas. A funeral service was held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Burial is planned for the summer of 2024 at the cemetery of St. John’s Benedictine Abbey and University in Collegeville, Minnesota.

George Frein was born October 2, 1932, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Harry and Margaret Frein. He was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1958. He ministered in parishes, taught in Catholic high schools, and completed a master’s degree in European history in the St. Louis area, before entering graduate school in theological studies at Catholic University. He left the priesthood in 1968 and joined the Religion Department at the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks, where he taught for 29 years. After retiring in 1997, he moved to Greenville, South Carolina, where he founded the Greenville Chautauqua Society, in which he was active until moving to Fort Worth, Texas, in 2012. George continued to work with Humanities North Dakota on Chautauqua programming until his death.

Although George insisted that Chautauquans should be scholars foremost, and not actors, he developed a flair for dramatic performance, as well as for nurturing thoughtful conversation with audiences about the characters he introduced. His best characterizations were of the American humorist Mark Twain. Though audiences may have come for Twain’s humor, George also challenged them with Twain’s critiques of American racism, colonialism, and religious hypocrisy. His final Chautauqua performance was a Mark Twain monologue before an overflow audience at a Greenville Theater in February 2023, where he was presented a key to the city of Greenville for his work in public humanities.

George married the Rev. Shelly Matthews. She has served the Dakotas Conference in extension ministries at Tufts University in Boston (1997-1998); Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina (1998-2011); and Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas, where she currently serves.

George is survived by his wife, Shelly; his sister, Denise Cole; his sister-in-law, Beverly Frein; his children: Mark Frein (Jessica), Nathan, and Alice Frein Matthews; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two brothers: Paul and Robert Frein.

Linda Mayer 1940-2023

Linda Mayer, 83, spouse of the Rev. Richard Mayer, died on Monday December 18, 2023, at Aurora, Illinois. A memorial service was held on Friday, December 22, 2023, at the Sugar Grove United Methodist Church in Sugar Grove, Illinois.

Linda Buie was born August 20, 1940. She married Richard Mayer in 1958. They made many trips to the Middle East and Europe.

Richard was admitted to the South Dakota Conference of The United Methodist Church in 1992. He was appointed to extension ministry at Sioux Falls College from 1992 to 2002, when he retired.

Phyllis Klarup 1935-2024

Phyllis Klarup, 88, surviving spouse of the Rev. Don Klarup, died Monday, March 18, 2024, at Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home in Mattoon, Illinois. A memorial celebration was held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Charleston, Illinois. Inurnment was at Hills of Rest Memorial Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Phyllis Ruth Maat was born July 18, 1935, to the Rev. William Gerrit and Ruth Esther (Vander Linden) Maat in Troy, New York. She was raised in Reformed Church parsonages in the Albany, New York, area and graduated from Columbia High School in East Greenbush, New York, in 1952. In 1956, she graduated from Hope College in Holland, Michigan.

Phyllis and the Rev. Donald Klarup were married on June 21, 1956, in Defreestville, New York. Together they served Methodist and United Methodist churches in South Dakota at Philip-Hayes, Philip-Quinn, Arlington, and Yankton and then in North Dakota at Fargo First. In 1976, they moved to Rapid City, where Don served as Western District Superintendent of the former South Dakota Conference. For nine months in late 1980 and early 1981, Don served as administrative assistant to Bishop Edwin Bolton. They returned to South Dakota in 1981 and served at Sioux Falls First.

In 1988, Don joined the development staff at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, where he worked until

Linda was an active member of the Sugar Grove United Methodist Church. She was devoted to her Christian faith and showed it through her outreach to those in need. Her focus was always on the needs of others, not herself.

Linda is survived by her husband of 65 years, Richard, of Aurora; three children: Michael (Maggie) Mayer of Aurora, Ellen (Ken) Janda of Minnesota, and Diane (Jack) Christiansen of Glenview, Illinois. Linda’s pride and joy were her five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

retiring in 1994. After Don’s retirement, they lived at Sioux Falls until 2005, when they moved to Savoy, Illinois. They moved to Charleston in 2012, and Phyllis joined the Wesley United Methodist Church.

Phyllis supported Don in his ministry, being particularly adept at associating names with faces and understanding the family and social connections within each new congregation. An avid reader, Phyllis also enjoyed working as a school library clerk in some of the communities in which they lived. Phyllis enjoyed corresponding with the many friends she and Don had developed over the years. In retirement Phyllis and Don remained committed to church activities and traveled extensively, including trips to Europe, Central America, and throughout the United States. A gentle and caring soul, Phyllis will be remembered for her quiet strength and enduring faith.

She and Don enjoyed more than 57 years of marriage until Don’s death on December 25, 2013.

Phyllis is survived by her children: Pamela Klarup (Michael Oswalt), of Putnam, Illinois, Douglas Klarup (Amy Lynch), of Charleston, Illinois, and Patricia Hoffman (Adam), of Fort Collins, Colorado; four grandchildren; one greatgranddaughter; her sister, Lois Roberts (Lin), of Statesboro, Georgia; one sister-in-law, Barbara Maat, of Crestone, Colorado; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; and two brothers: David Maat and Howard Maat.

Eileen Wilson 1946-2024

Eileen Wilson, 78, spouse of the Rev. Peary Wilson, of Hot Springs, South Dakota, passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2024. A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in Pringle, South Dakota. Her cremains will be kept and scattered with Peary’s at a later date.

Eileen Marjory De Vries was born on March 19, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, to the Rev. John and Marge De Vries. She lived her early years in South Dakota at Hitchcock, Geddes, Gregory, Sioux Falls, and Lead, where her father served Methodist and United Methodist churches. Her early life was shared with sisters Jeanne and Bev and brother Don.

After graduating from Washington High School in Sioux Falls, she attended Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota. While working part-time in the dining hall, she met Peary Wilson, and they were engaged in November 1966. Eileen moved to Illinois to live with her sister and family and be near Peary, who was attending Garrett Theological Seminary in Evanston. They were married August 27, 1967, in the Methodist Church at Lead, South Dakota. After their intern year in St. Cloud, Minnesota, they bought a used tent trailer. By eating on seven dollars a week, they could afford to travel. They camped to California, Alaska, and South Dakota and had the adventure of a lifetime.

Roger Sayler Sr. 1953-2024

Roger Sayler, Sr., 70, spouse of the Rev. Judy Sayler, of Wakonda, South Dakota, died on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the Wakonda United Methodist Church, with his wife, Judy, officiating. Burial was in the Garden of Memories Cemetery at Yankton, South Dakota.

Roger R. Sayler Sr. was born on October 13, 1953, to Marvin and Ardis (Diltz) Sayler. He grew up with his only brother, Larry, on the original Sayler homestead farm at Lesterville, South Dakota. Roger graduated from Scotland High School in 1971 and then from Southeast Technical School in Sioux

In 1970, they began ministry in the South Dakota Conference at Alexandria-Fulton. After a leave of absence in Watertown, they served eight years at Canistota, followed by Brookings and Yankton-Gayville-Volin. Peary transferred to the North Dakota Conference, and they served six years at Bismarck McCabe. Then they moved to Rapid City, and Peary served as Southwest District superintendent. They then served Lead-Deadwood until Peary’s retirement in 2006.

During her ministry in Alexandria-Fulton, Eileen created a study/support group for young mothers. She often led or created vocal choirs and bell choirs for the children and youth. She and Peary led a backpacking camp in the Big Horn Mountains, and she helped lead camps on canoe trips and retreats and at UMC campsites and rallies. She was a substitute teacher, a secretary for the Southwest District, and a supporter of and leader for United Methodist Women. She loved sewing and working in the garden or yard.

Eileen was diagnosed with adult-onset sensitive Type 1 diabetes in 2005, and in recent years, she developed Alzheimer’s and/or Lewy Body Syndrome. Her smile and kindness were evident to the end. The nurses and staff nicknamed her “sweetheart.”

Eileen is survived by her husband, Peary; son Brian (Petra); daughter Darshan (Junior) Soske; two grandchildren; her brother Don (Sheila) De Vries; one sister Bev Hemple; and many nieces and nephews.

Falls with a degree in diesel mechanics.

His love of toy tractors, excavators, and semi-trucks as a boy translated to a career in fixing big machinery as he worked for Tom Jordan Trucking, Missouri Valley Machinery, Butler Machinery, Fred Haar John Deere, and Koletzky Implement. He ended his career by owning and operating a mobile mechanic business, Missouri Valley Maintenance & Repair.

Roger married Gladys McKelvey in 1974, and they had two sons: Roger, Jr. and Robert. In 1982, the family moved to Oklahoma, where Roger worked for Boecking Machinery in the oil fields as a Caterpillar heavy-equipment mechanic. They returned to South Dakota in 1990.

Roger married Judy Swensen in June 2011. Together, they served the United Methodist congregations at Wakonda, Irene, and Viborg, South Dakota.

Roger never met a person he didn’t like, and he always had a story to tell.

Roger and Judy enjoyed taking trips together and sitting on the sidelines of his grandchildren’s and her grandchildren’s games. When his health issues stopped him from attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, he watched them on television and then texted each of them afterwards to tell them how proud he was.

Bernita Geiman 1931-2024

Bernita Geiman, 93, surviving spouse of the Rev. Donald Geiman, passed away Saturday, April 27, 2024, in Scotland, South Dakota. Memorial services were held Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Scotland Community Church in Scotland, with Pastor Andy Bueber officiating. The committal service was held at Rosehill Cemetery in Scotland immediately following the memorial service. Bernita’s granddaughter, the Rev. Kori Geiman Lehrkamp, officiated.

Bernita Ann Marx was born on March 7, 1931, in De Smet, South Dakota, to Herbert and Alvina (Dierks) Marx. Growing up in lean and humble circumstances, Bernita learned the value and honor of a solid work ethic. While in high school, Bernita and her sister Verlyn worked at Grandma Gordon’s Café in De Smet. She graduated from De Smet High School in 1949.

Bernita married Donald Geiman on August 16, 1950, in Pipestone, Minnesota. She was a homemaker and farm wife, while Don worked off-farm jobs to help make ends meet. Bernita raised and processed thousands of chickens for local customers during their early married years. She was an avid gardener and cook, specializing in homemade candy. She loved playing cards, especially double pinochle.

Roger is survived by his wife, Judy; two sons: Roger, Jr. (Sabrina) Sayler, of Jefferson, South Dakota; and Bob (Kelli) Sayler, of Elk Point, South Dakota; five grandchildren; two sisters-in-law: Freida Sayler and Linda (Barry) Placek; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Larry.

Bernita was an active member of Trinity Methodist Church in Iroquois, South Dakota. After Don accepted a call to ministry in the Methodist Church, she assumed the role of pastor’s wife, teaching Sunday school and singing in the church choir. Together Bernita and Don served Methodist and United Methodist churches in the South Dakota and Dakotas Conferences at Artesian-Farwell-Roswell, Mount Vernon, McLaughlin-Mobridge, Scotland-Tripp, Selby-Lowry, and Conde-Andover.

Bernita also worked a variety of jobs outside the home. She owned and operated the Mustang Corral Café in Mount Vernon from 1968 to 1972. After Don’s retirement in 1995, they spent their retirement years in Scotland. When she was 80, Bernita started cutting chislic for Kepps Foods in Scotland, working there until she was 90.

Bernita is survived by her six sons: Dan (Marlene) Geiman, of Plankinton, South Dakota; the Rev. Gary Geiman (the Rev. Dr. Jan Witman), of Claremont, California; Robert Geiman, of Canton, South Dakota; and Greg (Kathleen) Geiman, John (LuAnn) Geiman, and Dennis Geiman, all of Scotland; 17 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; 3 great-greatgrandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don, on December 29, 2006; one brother, Kenneth; and two sisters: Darlene and Verlyn.

In memory Laity

James Bellamy Beddow 1942-2023

James Bellamy Beddow, a muchloved husband, father, and grandfather, died on June 25, 2023, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. after a brief and unexpected illness. He was 81.

Jim was a true child of South Dakota, born in Huron and raised in Woonsocket, graduating from the University of South Dakota in 1964, before completing his Ph.D. at the University of Oklahoma and joining the U.S. Army. Jim served as a professor of U.S. and Latin American History while remaining a lifelong Coyote and Sooner fan. He was the longest-serving President in the history of Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota, and later became a state-wide leader and advocate for rural economic development.

Jim’s legacy will be felt most deeply through his two children and four grandchildren. His dedication to his four grandchildren’s lives, activities, and passions was unparalleled. “Gpa” was their Uber driver, head cheerleader, and home maintenance advisor. They loved his legendary use of emojis. He drove Sutton’s dog twice to Utah to visit him at school; never missed Penn’s football, basketball, or soccer games; devoted himself to helping Tru set up her first home; and

watched Cooper play more tennis than any grandparent in history. “Gpa” lives on through his grandkids.

Jean, the kids, and the grandkids will always remember family trips around the world including Turks & Caicos, London, Japan, Israel, Mexico, Hawaii, and too many trips to Disney World.

Jim spent hours daily watching Twins games, soccer, basketball, and golf on his iPad simultaneously with Jay who lives in Japan. Trips together to the Masters and the British Open were life highlights for both of them. Jana is especially grateful for his constant presence in her busy life as a physician and mom of four and for teaching her how to use every type of power tool. He called her Pooh Bear until the day he passed. Jim was so proud of his kids.

Jim is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jean; his son, Jay (Itsuko); his daughter, Jana (Brenden) Johnson; four wonderful grandchildren, Tru, Penn, Sutton, and Cooper Johnson; his sister, Julie (Tom) Ashworth, and his brothers, Craig (Kris) Beddow, and Terry (Linda) Beddow; and two step-siblings, Carolyn Jenkins, and Tom Carver.

He was preceded in death by his father Gerald and mother Bernice; and two step-siblings, Jim, and Kit Carver.

Retirees

Rev. Jeff Adel

Rev. Jeff Adel’s path to ministry was not as straightforward as some. Pastor Jeff started as a lawyer before getting heavily involved in his local church and experiencing his call to ministry.

“I went to the University of South Dakota Law School, and I worked for the state of South Dakota from 1985 to 1991. Then was in a private practice with a partner, Casey Bridgeman, from 1991 to 2000,” he shares.

With his wife, Wanda, Rev. Jeff Adel experienced his call to ministry through laity work at the United Methodist Church in Wessington Springs, South Dakota.

He describes, “We just kind of got more and more involved in the church. Both of us had just about every position there was for a lay person. I also did some lay

Rev. Paul Budd

Honesty, understanding loss, and hearing God are critical aspects of Rev. Paul Budd’s ministry journey. “We all have losses. We need to understand those losses. When someone approaches me, I say, ‘How is it going?’” They say, ‘Well, my cat died, and it isn’t a big deal.’ I say, ‘No, it is not just a cat.’ We need to talk and learn so much. Folks are willing to be honest, especially as we age, and we are more willing to hear God,” said Rev. Paul Budd, Dakotas Conference elder.

Rev. Paul Budd has been a chaplain at John Knox Village, a retirement community in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, for 40 years.

He grew up around Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and attended a non-denominational church. He found his home in the Wesleyan tradition from his father-in-law, Rev. Harold Fitch. “I decided I needed to go the United Methodist route. I

speaking at that time. It was in 2006 that Wanda and I felt we were being led for me to go to seminary.”

Once Jeff experienced his call to ministry, he did not give up on his legal work. He continued to work as a lawyer throughout seminary.

After completing seminary, Jeff was given his first official appointment. “I got my first United Methodist appointment in 2008, to the United Methodist Church in North Sioux City. It was also known as the McCook Lake Church,” He said.

He served at McCook Lake for three years before moving with his wife to Gettysburg, where he served Gettysburg, Onida, and Agar.

In retirement, Jeff and Wanda will move to Pierre, South Dakota, where they will make spending time together a priority.

hadn’t planned on seminary. Suddenly, there was an opening in Tolstoy and Bowdle. They had my name because I had been helping my father-in-law, Harold Fitch, in Sturgis, South Dakota. They asked, ‘Would you come and be a local pastor?’ I did that for three years,” said Pastor Paul. “I knew then the United Methodist system was a fit for me. I decided then that I needed to go to seminary.”

Budd headed to St. Paul Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. After completing seminary, Pastor Paul became a chaplain at John Knox Village. “I went to school here and then just felt like John Knox Village was the place to be. I have been here since I graduated from seminary,” said Pastor Paul. “I missed the local church, yet this felt like a good fit for me.”

In retirement, Rev. Budd will continue to live in the same area. He currently works about 20 hours a week at John Knox Village, and his son and grandchildren live in the area.

Rev. Barbara Krumm

Pastor Barbara Krumm has been Licensed Local Pastor for a few short, but meaningful years. She served as Edgely and Ellendale in North Dakota.

She describes her relationship with God as, “something that kind of just grows on you.” She grew up going to church with her parents and attending Sunday School at a small, reformed church in Artas, South Dakota. Barbara talked about how her journey was “slow and steady,” but she knew that there was always a greater plan for her life.

As custom harvesters, Barbara and her husband travelled to Oklahoma where they met all kinds of people. Since Barbara’s ministry is in a farming community, she feels that all of her experience has helped her connect to the church in a unique way. “I can relate to farmers. I can relate to harvest season.

Rev. Kathleen Udehn

In 2016, Pastor Kippy began serving as a Licensed Local Pastor at United Methodist churches in De Smet and then Hitchcock, South Dakota.

Before retiring, she was serving at Blunt, Highmore, and Harold, South Dakota. While serving the threepoint charge she helped to launch a preschool at the United Methodist Church in Blunt. She guided the three

I can relate to all that kind of stuff, which is unique.” She also said, “Sitting in the pew for most of my life, instead of standing up behind the pulpit has given me a better way of relating to the people sitting in that pew.”

She got her start in ministry later in life, first as a youth leader in Eureka, South Dakota. Barbara then was asked by her mentor Rev. Bob Duemig to assist with pulpit supply while he was away. The church of Eureka, Rev. Bob Duemig, and her husband David, all encouraged her to pursue a path of ministry and Barbara could not be more grateful to them for their support. “I always tell people I did not pursue this calling. It pursued me.”

In retirement Barbara hopes to focus on being a good wife, mom, and grandma. She loves spending time with her 7 grandkids and is excited to see them more often. Barbara is also looking forward to going to more car shows with her husband, who is also retired.

congregations through the pandemic, mission work, and expanding youth and children’s ministry.

She is a lifelong learner, speaker and teacher. She holds two master’s degree, several continuing education credits, and undergraduate degrees from Indiana University, and University of Illinois at Urbana.

In retirement, Pastor Kippy is living in Huron, South Dakota, near family and friends.

Candidates

Provisional Membership and Commissioning

Annie Carlson

Annie Carlson is a lifelong United Methodist. Her loves for the church and pastoral ministry have flourished throughout the years. She grew up attending the United Methodist Church in Turtle Lake, North Dakota, where she played the piano, attended Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and youth group.

She was a farm girl as a child and has found her way back to the family farm near Mercer, North Dakota. With her husband John and their children, they operate Morning Joy Farm—a grass-based regenerative farm

working with nature. They have spent the past seventeen years growing their farm, faith, business, and children.

Throughout the years Annie has provided pulpit supply and been active in the congregations where she has lived and served. She describes herself as a “faith and action” person. She has a passion for a faith that is lived out in action.

Annie has an undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University and a Master of Divinity from Kairos University. She is an avid reader and life-long learner.

Annie currently serves at the United Methodist congregations at Center and Washburn in North Dakota. Annie is being commissioned as an elder.

Stephanie Eliason

Stephanie Eliason grew up in the Rochester, Minnesota area. She followed her family’s lead with her faith. Stephanie has an aunt who is a pastor. Her grandparents were missionaries to Papua, New Guinea, and her uncle followed in their footsteps. Stephanie’s parents were part of the church choir and other ministries.

The question for Stephanie has always been not if she would be involved in a church, but how. She found herself volunteering in children’s ministry, the youth worship band, and other experiences that built her faith and brought her joy.

Stephanie attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, for her undergraduate degree. As an undergraduate, she found herself in conversations with friends about faith. Those friends headed to seminary, but not Stephanie. Eventually, her pastor asked her not if she was going to seminary but when.

She attended Kairos University and graduated with her Master of Divinity in 2022. Stephanie currently serves as the asociate pastor at Canyon Lake United Methodist Church in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Stephanie is married to Nicholas. They have two boys, ages 5 and 8. She is being commissioned as an elder.

Allison Galbreath

Allison Galbreath seeks to live out her call to love deeply through her work in the church. As a youth, she attended the United Methodist Church in Steele, North Dakota, where she had the opportunity to put her faith into action through various mission trips.

It was on a mission trip to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, that Allison began to recognize her call to ministry. Allison affirmed her call to ministry as an Elisha intern at First United Methodist Church in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Allison participated in theater and campus ministries while completing her undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Jamestown. She also served as a youth group leader at Steele UMC during the pandemic and spent her summers working as a counselor at Elks Camp Grassick, a camp for kids with disabilities, in Dawson, North Dakota.

She attended Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. and obtained her Master of Divinity.

She is being commissioned as an elder. Allison has a passion for rural ministry and a heart for disability ministry. Her first appointment will be to the newly formed Miller-HighmoreHarrold Parish in South Dakota.

Cindy Heidelberger

Cindy Heidelberger is living out her call to be commissioned as a deacon. She has learned through the challenges of life she has the heart of a deacon.

Cindy is the Executive Director of GroundsWorks Connect. As a nonprofit, GroundWorks Connect brinds Education and Agriculture together to enhance ag literacy, studen leadership, creation care, resource stewardship, and community development. She has served as a hospital and a behavorial heal chaplain, as Director of Children and Family Ministries at Asbury, and as a teacher. Cindy has an undergraduate degree

in Communication Studies and Theater, English, and Education from South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota. A degree that she has utilized in various job roles.

Cindy attended Sioux Falls Seminary, receiving her Master of Divinity degree, preparing for the elder track. Life events, her seminary journey, and her colleagues led her to the decision become a deacon, specializing in pastoral care and counseling, creation care ministry, and community development.

Cindy has two sons and will be married to Rev. Duane Coates this summer.

Michele Vallery Slott

Michele Slott is being ordained as an elder. She credits her mother’s strong and active faith as a great influence on her own spiritual journey. Michele leaned into pastoral ministry slowly, years after hearing God’s encouragement, “Don’t let the past define you. Let Me define you. Let Me tell you who you are.”

Slott completed her Master of Divinity through the Kairos project. Her undergraduate degree is from South Dakota State University in applied design, communication studies, and theater.

She currently serves at Open Heart United Methodist Church in Rapid City, South Dakota. Michele has intentionally met with people in the neighborhood, community, and potential partners in ministry. She works alongside her congregation in distributing monthly food boxes and weekly muffins to school kids. She is part of team working to bring chaplaincy support to the developmentally disabled community.

Previously she served at First United Methodist Church in Rapid City, South Dakota, and in graphic design, marketing and project management before that.

She is married to Rodger. They live in Rapid City and have two adult sons.

Janice Thompson

Janice Thomson is being ordained as an elder. She currently serves at the United Methodist Church in Flandreau, South Dakota. When Flandreau UMC was considering disaffiliation, Janice demonstrated both clarity and kindness in her leadership amidst the conflict and anxiety. Janice previously served Beach UMC in Howard and Beresford Zion UMC.

Her faith was highly influenced by her grandmother who was very proud to be a United Methodist. Even after her passing, it was Goldie’s prayers that covered Janice in her journey to

ministry and drew her back to her roots.

Janice holds a bachelor’s degree in art, and a master’s degree in counseling from South Dakota State University. She completed her Master of Divinity at Sioux Falls Seminary. With her background, her love of other cultures as well as her love of art, Janice is passionate about bringing healing and art into her ministry.

Janice is married to Darick. She has 3 adult children, Jordan, Ellie and Hanna, as well as a bonus son, Colton. She is an active grandmother to 2 new grandbabies, Emma and Sonnie.

Welcome to this significant service of worship and celebration of ministry. We pray you may participate fully in offering praise and thanksgiving to our God for the work of the Holy Spirit.

IN ORDINATION, the Holy Spirit acts to maintain the priority of the gospel by setting apart men and women called to leadership as apostles.

The pattern for this response to the call is provided in the development of the early church. The apostles led in prayer, teaching, and preaching; ordered the spiritual and temporal life of the community; established leadership for the ministry of service; and provided for the proclamation of the gospel to new people and in new places. The early church, through the laying on of hands, set apart people with responsibility to preach, to teach, to administer the sacraments, to nurture, to heal, to gather the community in worship, and to send them forth in witness. The church also set apart other people to care for the physical needs of others, reflecting the concerns for the people of the world.

Ordination to this ministry is a gift from God to the church. In ordination, the church affirms and continues the apostolic ministry through people empowered by the Holy Spirit.

ACTS OF ORDINATION AND COMMISSIONING are anchored in the sacrament of baptism and the ministry of the baptized. All baptized Christians respond as “the priesthood of all believers,” and so, as we begin, we reaffirm our baptism together.

COMMISSIONING may be compared to the experience of the early church in Antioch as the Holy Spirit instructed the community to “set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them” (Acts 13:2, NRSV). As provisional members are commissioned, we acknowledge and affirm God’s call and the individual’s response, gifts, and training for leadership in the local church and community. We offer our support for their continuing formation as each one journeys toward ordination and full membership in the conference.

ORDINATION is understood as the act of the Holy Spirit and, as a liturgical rite, the culmination of a process in which representatives of the whole church discern and validate the call, gifts and effectiveness for ministry. Ordination of deacons and elders is both to an office and for a lifetime. Ordination confers a new identity in the life of the church as well as authority for ministry. This identity is claimed in relation to Christ and his call to leadership and service with the baptized for the life of the world. Upon ordination, deacons and elders become accountable to the whole church, to the community of the ordained, and to the order of deacons or elders of which they are a part.

THE LAYING ON OF HANDS, referenced in Timothy 1:6, indicates the sign of calling on God’s Holy Spirit to bestow the gift of grace for ministry. Commissioned people are blessed on the shoulders as a sign of being sent into ministry for a specified period of time. They kneel facing the congregation as a sign that they are sent into the congregation for continued formation and service before ordination. In ordination, a bishop lays hands on the head of the candidate as a sign of the gifts of the Holy Spirit for a lifetime of ministry. The ordinands kneel facing the bishop as a sign that they are sent and supported by the congregation into a lifetime of service. The whole church affirms together with “Amen” to indicate recognition, gratitude, and commitment to the work of the Holy Spirit. The privilege of sharing in ministry with all in Christ’s holy church is celebrated by the inclusion of an ecumenical representative to share in the laying on of hands.

INSTRUMENTS AND SYMBOLS for the ordering of ministry are represented for the distinct orders. The Bible is common to all orders of Christ’s ministry. Commissioned ministers wear no stole. The ministry of the deacon is symbolized by the basin, pitcher, and towel, representing servant ministry. The deacon’s stole, worn over the left shoulder, across the body, symbolizes the servant’s towel. The ministry of the elder is symbolized by the chalice (cup) and paten (plate), representing the sacrament of Holy Communion. The elder’s stole, yoked at the neck, hanging straight down, symbolizes the yoking with Jesus Christ. The bishop’s instrument of ministry is the crozier, or shepherd’s staff, symbolizing the pastoral leadership of Christ and his flock. Like all Christians, licensed local pastors may wear a scapular, which represents the servant’s apron, and a pectoral cross.

OFFERING taken this evening will support the 2024 Miracle Offering that will be divided among the 31:8 Project, Abbott House’s Bridges Therapuetic Foster Care program, recovery ministry grants, and the clergy sustentaion fund.

The United Methodist Church Dakotas Conference