Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home - Sioux Falls, SD

George Henry Dickson, age 86, passed away on August 20th, 2026 in Sioux Falls, SD.

George Dickson was born on January 26, 1940, in Hoople, North Dakota, to Albert and Dina Dickson. He grew up in Hoople and graduated from high school in 1958. He was one of three children, along with his sisters, Donaldа and Letitia “Tisha.”

Shortly after graduation, George demonstrated the courage and selflessness that would become a defining part of his life. While he and a group of students and friends were swimming and picnicking at Homme Dam Park near Park River, North Dakota, a cry for help came from the water. George immediately went to the struggling swimmer in a boat that happened to be on shore. He then dove into the water, brought the swimmer safely to shore, and helped administer artificial respiration. Thankfully, the swimmer recovered and was able to get up and about after the rescue.

On January 5, 1959, George volunteered to serve in the United States Army. He completed basic training at Fort Riley, Kansas, and was then sent to Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, where he completed 25 weeks of training in the Signal Corps. Following his training, he was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, before boarding a troop ship bound for Camp Zama, Japan. George served in Japan until February 1962, including an additional six months of service due to the Berlin Wall crisis.

During his time in Japan, George climbed Mount Fuji, creating a memorable experience that he would carry with him throughout his life.

After returning home, George built a long career with the United States Department of Agriculture, where he worked for 28 years as a Compliance Officer before retiring. He also served the South Dakota Judicial System part-time for 12 years as a bailiff.

On August 31, 1963, George married Carol Grazdielewski. Together they raised three children: Sherry, Michael, and Brian. George was a devoted husband and father who took pride in his family and the life they shared. George was also a proud grandfather of six grandkids and great grandfather of two.

George will be remembered for his courage, dedication to his country, commitment to his work, and, most importantly, his love for his family. From the young man who risked his own life to save a stranger to the husband, father, and friend he became, George lived a life marked by service and compassion.

George will be cremated, and his remains will be buried at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, August 26th, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Sioux Falls, SD. Visitation will be Wednesday at the Cathedral one hour prior to the Mass. Burial with military honors will be Wednesday, August 26th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Sioux Falls, SD.

Ruth Lucille Erichsen (Blais) 94, was born in Kampeska, South Dakota to George Lawrence Blais and Virginia Lucille (Vaughn) Blais on November 27, 1931. Ruth passed away on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Ruth was raised on a farm near Grover, SD, the oldest of eight children. Ruth graduated from Henry High in Henry, South Dakota in 1949. She worked as a bookkeeper at Kresge's for several years before marrying Dwight John "Skip" Erichsen on August 7th, 1956. They made their home together for 57 years in Watertown.

Ruth is survived by three daughters, Julia Erichsen of Sioux Falls, Jodi (Mark) Messerli of Watertown, SD and Jill (Rob Amdahl) Erichsen of Watertown, SD.

Surviving siblings are, John (Nancy) Blais of Watertown, SD, and Margaret (Maggie) and Bill Hauger of Watertown SD. Also surviving Ruth are three grandchildren and four great grandchildren: Spencer Prefling (Ariana) having 3 children, Olivia (Livy), Owen and Orin Prefling of Ione, California, Lauren Messerli Johnson (Austin) and daughter, Quinn, of Parker, Colorado, Parker Messerli of Watertown, South Dakota and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.

Ruth passed away peacefully at home in Sioux Falls SD, where she had been living with her daughter Julia for the past several years.

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, George and Virginia Blais; husband, Dwight "Skip" Erichsen; his sister, Alona (Midge) (Eldridge Lee, jr.) Myers; three sisters, Agnes (Duane) Schmidt, Rose Strohfus (Jim) Quam and Sarah Koepke and brother-in-law Lloyd Koepke; two brothers, Vince (Agnes) Blais and Albert (Marion) Blais and great granddaughter, Wren Johnson.

Visitation and Funeral services will be held on Saturday August 29th, 2026, at the First Congregational Church in Watertown, South Dakota.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral at 11:00 AM. Lunch will be served in the Fellowship Hall following the service.

Memorials may be sent to the First Congregational Church in Watertown, South Dakota at 121 1st Ave SE, Watertown, SD 57201.

Michael “Mike” Boyum, age 63, of Sioux Falls, SD, died August 11, 2026, at Dougherty Hospice House surrounded by family and friends after a battle with cancer.

He was born February 21, 1963, at McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, to Charles “Chuck” and Karen (Erschens) Boyum. He was the oldest of 4 siblings: Clay, Beth and Wade.

Mike spent his childhood running around the Cathedral neighborhood creating liftime "Northender" memories; where he formed friendships adventures, laughter, good-natured teasing, and countless stories that could be told again and again.

Mike was educated in the Catholic School System, later graduating from O’Gorman High School in 1981. He would then follow in his father’s footsteps and become a dedicated ceramic tile setter for Syverson Tile and; Stone. He worked there for 35 years.

He spent almost 50 summers at his parents’ lake place on Big Stone Lake, SD. His time there was filled with fishing, hunting and family fun.

In summer of 1982, Mike met wife, Karla (Steele) Boyum, at Big Stone Lake, SD. On September 7, 1984, they wed at Saint Joseph’s Cathedral of Sioux Falls, SD. In April of 1999, Michael and Karla welcomed their first daughter Danielle (Boyum) Wuestewald. Their second daughter, Nicolette Boyum, was born in December 2000.

Mike had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and loved spending time fishing and hunting. Whether out on the water with a fishing pole in hand or enjoying the fields during hunting season, he found happiness and peace outdoors. He also had a true passion for sports, proudly cheering on the Green Bay Packers and the Michigan Wolverines.

Mike will be remembered for the things he loved, the memories he created, and the people whose lives he touched. His love of the outdoors, sports, and time spent with those close to him will remain part of the memories shared by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Rest in peace, Mike. May your next adventure be a peaceful one, with clear waters, animal-filled land and a game always worth watching.

Mike is survived by his wife: Karla (Steele) Boyum; daughters: Danielle (Erik) Wuestewald, and Nicolette Boyum; granddaughter: Bryn; parents: Chuck and Karen Boyum: siblings: Clay (Rhonda) Boyum, Beth (Chad) Belitz and Wade Boyum; nieces and nephews: Jennifer (Zach) Prilliman, of Anthem, AZ, Savannah (Tanner) Fjerestad, Hunter Boyum, Aiden and Cooper Belitz; uncle: Roger (Sue) Erschens and aunt: Jackie (Boyum) Spars; and many lifelong friends.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 18 at 5:00 PM with a Scripture Vigil at 6:00 PM at Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home.

Cecil Edwin Branson,72, of Eden SD, passed away on August 6, 2026, at the home of his son and daughter-in-law in Sioux Falls. Cecil was born on March 10, 1954, in Sioux Falls, SD to Burley and Betty Branson. Cecil was one of 7 kids. Cecil spent many days growing up in Sioux Falls, until his family moved to Elk Point. Boy, did he have stories from his growing up years. He held the same sense of humor and spunk until his last day.

Cecil got his start serving in the Navy, something he was proud of. Cecil spent most of his life working in maintenance, working for Cimpl, Alumax, Carlile Plastics, Rubbermaid and he retired from Horton Manufacturing in Britton, SD. In his retirement, Cecil was always tinkering and fixing something. Eileen was the love of his life. When she passed in January, Cecil’s life was never the same.

Cecil married Eileen in 1993 and the two were inseparable. Cecil would have done anything for her. His eyes lit up when Eileen entered the room. Although Eileen’s son was an adult when they met, Cecil was a huge source of support for Darick. When Darick met his wife, Janice, Cecil stepped into her world as well, filling in as the father she never had. Cecil was an amazing grandfather and great- grandfather to all of Darick’s children and when Janice entered their lives, Eileen and Cecil loved her children and grandchildren as well. Cecil’s motto was to love the people who love you. When Cecil loved you, he loved you fiercely.

Cecil always had a great sense of humor. Although he battled COPD and emphysema, he maintained his zest for life. He would tell you to eat for nourishment, not for taste. His healthy habits prolonged his life longer than we could have hoped for. Many people who helped Cecil in his battle to breathe have said that he was one of their favorite patients to shoot the breeze with.

Cecil is survived by Eileen’s son: Darick Thomspon; and daughter-in-law: Janice Thompson of Sioux Falls; a daughter from his first marriage and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A small Celebration of Life for Cecil and Eileen Branson will be held on August 29, from 1-3PM. There will be a time of prayer at 1:30PM. If you would like to attend, please call Darick or Janice Thompson for directions.

Vicki Lou Aaseng, 74, of Brandon, SD, passed away at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls on August 12, 2026 surrounded by her loving Family.

Vicki was born in Worthington, MN on August 11, 1952. Since the age of 3, she had the privilege of being raised by Fred “Sam” and Verena Driessen, who were the best parents a child could ask for. Vicki would often recount fond memories of attending school and church with her siblings as well as spending time with family, especially during the holiday season. Sam and Verena laid a strong foundation for Vicki’s relationship with God and her family.

Having attended Wilmont Catholic School for 11 years, she graduated from Worthington High School before studying at Worthington Community College. Vicki worked at Loretto Hospital in New Ulm, MN and Worthington Regional Hospital. While attending college, Vicki met the love of her life, Douglas Aaseng. Doug and Vicki balanced each other out and shared a strong connection with their religion. Excited to start their lives together, the two were married on February 19, 1972. From their relationship, God blessed Doug and Vicki with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Doug was stationed in Germany for his position in the US army early on in their marriage, and Vicki later joined him. They spent the next few years in Germany and North Carolina before settling in Brandon, SD in 1975, where they established themselves in their church and community.

Vicki was fortunate to spend the next several years as a stay-at-home mom until her children were of school-age. As her children were growing, she taught religious education for 13 years and devoted time as a member of the PTA. She also coached youth softball while the children were little.

As the kids aged, Vicki returned to working outside of the home. She worked as an assistant manager at Burger King for 15 years and spent the last 5 years of her career as a quality lead in food nutrition at the Sanford Children’s Hospital.

Vicki was privileged to be a member at Risen Savior Catholic church in Brandon. Along with teaching religious education, she often served as a eucharistic minister and played guitar for mass. She truly found a wonderful family and support system at Risen Savior. She was always grateful for their love and support, especially after her health began to deteriorate in 2020.

Vicki enjoyed cooking, cleaning, and watching old movies; however, she enjoyed being a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother the most. She treasured her time with her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids, never failing to outdo last year’s Christmas or make every sleepover special with her “classic” movies, indulgent snacks, and favorite meals. Food was a symbol of love in Vicki’s family. It was not uncommon to find yourself cooking or baking with Vicki or taking leftovers or groceries home from her house. She would not let you leave empty-handed.

Vicki hopes that her family and friends know that every moment they spent with her, every laugh shared, and every good deed done was through the grace of God. She gives all credit and thanks to Him, who guided Vicki in raising up the people around her and providing her with the gift of helping others. She also hopes those close to her to know that they were her greatest gift from the Lord. Each member of her family was special to her, holding a place in her heart.

We will remember her laugh as she struggled to get through a joke without dissolving into giggles and her way of making every member of her friends and family feel special.

Vicki was preceded in death by her parents; her half-brother, John “Butch” Crohan; her sister, Ruth Kattke; her son, Paul Aaseng; and her grandson, Noah Aaseng. She is survived by her husband, Douglas Aaseng; her son, Lee (Janet) Aaseng; her daughter, Angie (Allen “Dunks”) Dunkelberger; her grandchildren, James (Melissa) Aaseng, Theresa (Ethan) Aaseng, Michael Aaseng, Elizabeth Aaseng, Braeden Dunkelberger, Tanner Dunkelberger, Brody Dunkelberger, Kaitlyn (Cole) Hodges, Domenic (Alexis) Aaseng, and Jakob Aaseng; her great-

grandchildren, Leo, Greyson, and Sophia; her sister, Mary (Jerry) Kellen; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 5:00 PM Monday August 17 with a Scripture Vigil at 6:00 PM at Risen Savior catholic Church in Brandon. Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday August 18, 10:00 AM at Risen Savior Catholic Church in Brandon. In Vicki’s memory, donations to Risen Savior Catholic Church Parish, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the Bishop Dudley House would be greatly appreciated.

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of a dear man who graced our lives with his love and humor.

Surviving John is his wife of 53 years, Becky, son Troy (Melissa), daughter Robyn (Jeff), grandson Connor (Grace), granddaughter Taylor, great granddaughter Sophie as well as many other family and friends.

Born on June 6, 1929 to Gladys and Earl Larscheid in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She graduated from Cathedral High School and attended Augustana College. On December 27, 1949 she married Thomas P. Costello, the love of her life, at St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls. Together they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage and built a family, rooted in faith, love and generosity.

She was a longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church. She found great joy in traveling the world, playing golf, cards, and mah jongg with her dear friends, tending her gardens and antiquing.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband: Thomas P. Costello; her brother: Loren Larscheid (Rose); her sister: Charlotte Oster (Bob). She is lovingly remembered by her children: Tom (Stephanie), Dan (Janet), Colleen (Chip) Duncan and Margaret, eleven grandchildren: Katie and Caleb Chatfield, Charlie and Jill Costello, Connor Costello, Kate and Danny Stupin, Maryclaire and John Michael Fery, Grace Costello, Caroline and Nick Wachtler, Ford and Madison Duncan, Brady Duncan, Will Rodbell, Olivia Rodbell; and twelve great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Tuesday August 11, 2026 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls. Burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Thomas P. Costello Rental Assistance Fund, c/o the Catholic Diocese of Sioux Falls. 523 N. Duluth Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57104. or to the South Dakota Right to Life, 4001 West Valhalla Blvd., Suite 101 Sioux Falls, SD 57106.

Priscilla Karen (Turco) Spawn, lovingly known as "Peeker," passed away on July 25, 2026, at The Dougherty House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on February 19, 1945, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Peeker had a gift for making people feel seen, remembered, celebrated, and loved. Whether family, a lifelong friend, or someone she had just met, there was a good chance they would leave with a hug, a laugh, a thoughtful gift, or a birthday card.

She graduated from O'Gorman High School in Sioux Falls before attending South Dakota State University, where her intelligence, determination, and industriousness became evident early on. On June 14, 1965, she married her pharmacy school classmate, Donald Spawn, at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Sioux Falls. Just weeks ago, they celebrated 61 years of marriage.

Peeker's work ethic was nothing short of remarkable. While attending pharmacy school, she welcomed her first two children. She and Don later owned and operated Corner Drug Store in Crofton, Nebraska, where caring for people extended beyond filling prescriptions. After moving to Pipestone, Minnesota, in 1991, Peeker became known throughout the region as a dependable relief pharmacist, at times driving hours, often through Minnesota blizzards.

Home was equally important to her. She and Don enjoyed life on their acreage near Pipestone, where they raised sheep together. Of all the farm chores, Peeker especially loved lambing season. She delighted in naming each lamb and bottle-feeding the tiniest ones.

A proud Italian and a devoted Catholic, Peeker embraced life with passion, spice and levity. She was funny, outgoing, delightfully silly, a lover of gummy bears, and often the life of the party. She loved dancing—whether with Don, her children, or her grandchildren—telling stories, and wearing outrageous hats or costumes. She found joy watching "her" deer wander through her yard, spotting dolphins from a Florida balcony, gathering with her treasured cousins, and spending time with family whenever she could. She loved all holidays, and the 26 stockings she hand-made for all of her children and grandchildren will be a precious reminder at Christmas.

Her family will forever smile when recalling her signature expressions. She was a savant with numbers and could recite the birthdays of virtually everyone she loved—including all 21 grandchildren, her children, in-laws, siblings, and extended family; no birthday ever passed without a gesture from Peeker to convey: You matter to me.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Bernice "Popa and Mimi" Turco; her sisters, Sandra VanderWoude and Patricia "Triss" McEntee; and, just eight days before her own passing, her beloved daughter-in-law, Kristen "Krissy" Spawn. She leaves behind the love of her life, Donald Spawn; her five devoted children: Rebecca Bartunek (Jeff), Deborah Nitzel (Grant), Christopher Spawn, Elizabeth Stotler (Brad), and Vanessa Slivken (Josh); her cherished grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, with two more expected soon; her dear brother: Carl "Manny" Turco; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Mass and Celebration of Peeker's life will be held at St. Joseph’s Cathedral on August 6^th, at 10:00 A.M.

Betty M. Gibson of Sioux Falls, SD peacefully passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Sanford Hospice in Sioux Falls. She was 96 years old.

Born the day after Christmas, 1929, to Cyril and Frances Zilkoski, she was raised in the Flensburg, MN area on a farm. She was the middle of 8 sisters and 1 brother, and attended church and school in Little Falls, MN. As a young adult, Betty worked at a grocery store where she met her husband, Charles (Chuck) Gibson. They were married August 1, 1952.

Chuck and Betty moved to Sauk Rapids, MN. They were blessed with 4 children. In 1965 the family moved to Watertown, SD, for Chuck’s job. In 1974 they moved to Sioux Falls. Betty worked at Sunshine Foods in Sioux Falls for many years and made lifelong friends. In the early 80’s they started Family Memorials by Gibson. Betty soon became the top salesperson.

She had a knack for gab, loved interacting with people and helping them during their hour of need. She continued to visit grieving families, long after the funeral, bringing candy and a smile.

In her earlier days Betty was an avid bowler, dancer and card player, and she loved to socialize. Those who knew Betty appreciated her quick-witted humor. She loved sharing jokes, spicy banter and a smile (sometimes with the person next to her at the grocery store). She had a keen interest in healthy food but loved to provide snacks and candy for visiting family. She was a fun spirit. She enjoyed a beer and a trip to the casino on occasion.

Betty was a dedicated Catholic with a strong faith. She read devotionals each day and prayed often. Chuck and Betty were founding members of St Michael Church, and they volunteered on a regular basis for many years. She had a heart for giving and loved to support important charitable organizations

Betty is survived by her children: Scott Gibson (Mary), Tim Gibson, Julie Lindeman (Steve), Jayne Valnes (Cully); 9 grandchildren: Tony and Mike Gibson, Maria (Gibson) Clarke, Jesse, Eric and Adam Masloski, Bailey Stegenga, Britony Karst and Brooklyn Reller; 19 great- grandchildren; sisters-in-law; Marcy Zilkoski and Gail Brown; brothers-in-law: Eddie Zilka and Dave Kirchner; along with many nieces and nephews, who loved her much. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles Gibson, her sisters Lorraine, Laverne, Violet, Bernie, Carol, Alyce, and their spouses, Joanie, Shari and her brother John, and looked forward to reuniting with them in heaven.

Visitation will be at St. Michael Church in Sioux Falls, Thursday July 16 at 5:00 PM with a Scripture Vigil at 6:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday July 17 at 11:30 AM at St. Michael Church. A luncheon will immediately follow the funeral.

Troy Aaron Zimmerman, 64, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away on July 5, 2026. He was born on April 30, 1962, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Jerry and Edith (Novy) Zimmerman. He grew up with his five sisters and one brother.

He spent his life as a dedicated tradesman, taking great pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way. Most recently, he was employed at Sioux Equipment, where he worked for more than 10 years.

Outside of his family and career Troy found joy in the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Jerry and Edith Zimmerman, sister's Karen Husaboe, Robin Chavez, and Theresa Sparrow and their husbands.

Troy is survived by his life partner, Deb Fleming; his daughters, Veronica Zimmerman and Amanda Zimmerman; step-children, Sam Fleming and Becky (Mike) Larson; grandchildren, Warren, Creedence, Berlin, Amelia and Violet. His sisters, Susan Barber and Melodee (Dave) Johnson; and his brother, Steve (Bonnie) Zimmerman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 27813 SD Hwy 44, Lennox, SD 57039.

Troy will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of the outdoors, and the time he shared with those who knew and loved him.