Leland "Lee" Baldwin | 1935 - 2025
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted May 27, 2025 | 4:41 PM / 722 views
PIERRE, SD – Lee Baldwin, of Pierre, SD, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at the age of 89.
Born on June 13, 1935, in Kadoka, SD, Lee grew up on a small ranch nestled between Phillip and Kadoka. His early life was defined by hard work alongside his eight siblings, learning the value of perseverance and dedication. He spent his childhood milking cows, hand-thrashing wheat, and putting up hay.
After graduating from high school, Lee answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Italy and Germany, where he served as a weather observer until his honorable discharge in 1959.
Upon returning home, Lee pursued higher education at South Dakota State University (SDSU), earning his bachelor’s degree in business agriculture. It was also at this time, in 1960, that he married Joyce. After completing his degree, Lee embarked on a career as an insurance adjuster, which took him to various cities including Owatonna, Sioux Falls, and Rapid City. In the late 1960s, he settled in Pierre, where he established his own business, Dakota Claims Service. After successfully building and running Dakota Claims, Lee sold his offices across South Dakota and embarked on a new adventure, traveling the country adjusting storm losses from California to Florida for several years until his retirement.
In retirement, Lee starting a rental property business. He found great satisfaction in working and maintaining the properties, keeping himself active and engaged. Lee was an outdoorsman at heart and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and tending to his yard.
Lee is survived by his children, Craig Baldwin, Pierre, SD and Stephanie Kaul (Jason), Bismarck, ND; his grandchildren, Josh Baldwin, Cora Baldwin, Kaelyn Kaul (Kyle Biggerstaff), Ashlyn Kaul, and Riley Kaul; and his siblings, Mike Baldwin and Alice Ostboe; and his former daughter-in-law, Tanya Kayser, with whom he shared a special bond.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Baldwin; his son, David Baldwin; his granddaughter, Grace Jocelyn Kaul; and his siblings, Kenny, Dwight, Dwaine, Howard, Lorraine, and James.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM, followed by a service at 9:30 AM cst at Isburg Funeral Chapel in Pierre. Burial will follow at the VA National Cemetery in the Black Hills at 12:30 PM mst.
