PIERRE, SD – Mike Kropuenske, 51, of Pierre, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025

Visitation: 1:00-2:00pm, Monday, September 22, 2025 at Feigum Funeral Home

Funeral Service: 2:00pm, Monday, September 22, 2025 at Feigum Funeral Home

Burial: Riverside Cemetery

Michael Ryan Kropuenske, known as Mike to his friends and family, passed away after a courageous battle with stage 4 melanoma on September 15, 2025, in his hometown of Pierre, South Dakota. Mike was born on March 30, 1974, in Pierre, to Ruth Elaine Kropuenske who later married Francis James Curtis whom helped raise him. Despite his diagnosis in May of 2025 and the aggressiveness of his illness, Mike demonstrated remarkable strength and dedication, continuing to work at Cattleman’s Club Steakhouse where he had devoted over 29 years of service.

Mike’s legacy is marked by a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends. His Cattleman’s Club family, where he worked tirelessly as a cook, will remember him for his unrelenting work ethic, his incredible sense of humor, and the warmth he brought into every room. The void left by his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Preceded in death by his parents, grandparents Milliea and Russel Carter Sr., uncle Don Carter, and nephew Slade Genzler, Mike leaves behind his sisters Terre (Chad) Preheim and Rebecca (Louie Jr.) Genzler, both of Pierre, SD; his brother David Kropuenske of Sioux Falls, SD; nine adored nieces and nephews; twenty-five great-nieces and nephews; Aunt Rose (Monte) Greg of Harold, SD; and numerous cousins, extended family members, and a host of friends.

Educated locally, Mike attended school in Pierre and later graduated from Fort Pierre. He possessed a strong work ethic from an early age, having worked at Sutley’s in Fort Pierre during high school, then later at Gator’s Pizza, and as a cab driver before finding his calling at The Cattleman’s Club Steakhouse. His career there was not just a job but a reflection of his passion for cooking, often experimenting with new recipes and delighting his loved ones with culinary samples.

A true Kansas City Chiefs fan, Mike’s loyalty never wavered as he passionately followed his team, sharing many game days with his brother-in-law Chad over the years. His sense of humor and love for football were only matched by his love for cooking and the joy he found in feeding others.

The family wishes to express profound gratitude for the overwhelming love and support received during this difficult time. In a fitting tribute to Mike’s passion for sports, they invite those attending his service to wear their favorite team jersey to honor his memory. Mike Kropuenske’s spirit, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear Mike; your memory is a blessing to us all.

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