John M. Wenschlag, age 83, of Glenham, South Dakota passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, in Mobridge, South Dakota. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend to many, John leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Kesling Funeral Home of Mobridge.

Early Life
Born on November 23, 1941, in Watertown, South Dakota, John was the son of Marvin and Julia “Mae” Luken-Wenschlag. He graduated from high school in Pierpont, South Dakota, and at the young age of 17, enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served as a helmsman aboard the USS Los Angeles (CA-135) from 1959 to 1962. It was during a 72-hour weekend leave in Los Angeles that he met the love of his life at his cousin, Julia’s, home on July 7, 1962.

Marriage and Career
One February 2, 1963, John married Eileen F. Davis, bringing his new bride from California to Pierpont, South Dakota, to assist his father with the family’s grain elevator. In 1972, John acquired Sisseton Seed 7 Grain from his parents. In 1984, John further expanded his entrepreneurial endeavors by acquiring a 32-mile railroad from Milbank, South Dakota, to Sisseton, South Dakota (SMRR). This acquisition strengthened ties with local farmers and enhanced the region’s agricultural economy. John successfully owned and managed Sisseton Seed & Grain and Sisseton-Milbank Railroad until his retirement in June 1991. Following retirement, John remained actively involved in entrepreneurial endeavors, including Mid-America Aviation, casinos, hotels, and farming. He was also instrumental in securing funding for the Sisseton Arts auditorium, along with other donors.

Passions and Pastimes
After retiring, John and Eileen settled in Glenham, where he found his greatest joy in fishing. Summers were spent on Lake Oahe on the Missouri River, castings lines with friends and family, relishing competition and camaraderie. Winters were dedicated to soaking up the sun in Arizona and enjoying rounds of golf.

Family and Survivors
John is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Eileen F. Davis Wenschlag; his daughter, Kimberly A. Wenschlag; his son, Richard J. Wenschlag (Shelli); and his cherished grandchildren: Kayla Trottier (Shawn), Brandon J. Wenschlag (Karolyn), and Jaden L. Williams (Jake). He also leaves behind his sisters, Eunice Temple, Madonna Paulson, and Tammy Williams. John was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Julia “Mae” Luken-Wenschlag, and his sister Barbara Pray.

Service Information
A memorial service will be held July 19, 2025, at 11 AM at Kesling Funeral Home in Mobridge, South Dakota, with lunch to follow the service at the Moose Lodge of Mobridge. All friends and community members are invited to attend and celebrate John’s incredible life. If you plan on attending, please reply by July 14th through text to Kim @ 701-429-0265 or Richard @ 775-857-8815 with name and number of guests in your party.

God bless all of you for your love and support during this difficult time for our family.

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