Ron Gilman | 1938 - 2024
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted May 7, 2024 | 11:01 AM / 245 views
FT. PIERRE, SD – Ronald “Ron” Gilman, 85, of Ft. Pierre formerly of Kennebec passed away peacefully on April 28, 2024, at his home in Ft. Pierre surrounded by his family. The family will greet visitors from 6:00-8:00pm, on Friday, May 24th at the Governor’s Inn Conference Room in Pierre with a memorial service at 11:00am on Saturday May 25th at the Lyman School Gym in Kennebec. For those unable to attend the service it will be live streamed in the link below.
Ron was born on Christmas Eve in 1938 in Chamberlain, SD to Arthur and Ruth (Packman) Gilman. Ron’s life was a testament to his dedication to his family, and passion for the community.
Ron’s early years were spent north of Kennebec, where he graduated from Kennebec High School. Ron married his high school sweetheart in the summer of 1959. They remained married for just short of 65 years at the time of his death. He furthering his education at South Dakota State University and obtaining a Master’s Degree from Purdue University.
After a brief time in North Dakota and Minnesota, Ron returned to his roots in South Dakota. For 34 years, he devoted himself to farming and ranching near Kennebec. After raising two daughters on farm, he truly loved the visits from the grandchildren and being able to teach them about farm and ranch life. In 2000, he retired and moved to Ft. Pierre.
Ron’s involvement with various boards and clubs was a reflection of his dedication to service and leadership. He served on the Lyman County School Board, the Dakota Lakes Research Experiment Station, his Church’s Board, and was an active member of the Medicine Creek Riding Club, among others.
Ron was also known for his hands-on skills. He had a talent for welding and building things, he was resourceful and handy.
Ron found joy in golfing, roping, being around horses and was an avid poker player. He also loved hunting deer, geese and pheasants. Ron cherished the time spent with his grandkids and attending their events.
Ron is survived by his wife, Myrna, his daughters, Pam (Reggie) Underwood and Kim (David) Larson, his brother, Jim (Karen) Gilman, sister, Alyce McKay, along with five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, who will all miss him deeply.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Bill (Mary Lou) Gilman, and brother-in-law, Ken Mellegard.
