PIERRE, SD – Mike (Mervin J.) Ferris, a man known for his love of family, friends, and the outdoors, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones in Pierre, SD, on September 29, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on June 20, 1947, to Ed and Em Ferris. Mike was an active community member, a devoted family man, and a “Mike”-of-all-trades whose eclectic business pursuits and hobbies reflected his zest for life and adventure.

Mike’s early years were rooted in family and outdoor activities. After graduation from Highmore High School (Class of 1966) he went to barber college in Sioux Falls and returned to Pierre to work as a barber. In 1968, he married Gail Kruse, and together they welcomed their son Guy, who would become one of Mike’s best hunting, fishing, and business partners. Mike later achieved certification as an EMT and fulfilled a personal dream by earning his pilot’s license.

As a modern Renaissance man, Mike’s career was as varied as it was interesting. He ventured into construction and heavy equipment sales, fur trapping and sales, and bail bonding and crop insurance sales. Mike’s affinity for the great outdoors shone through in his roles as a hunting and fishing guide and his support of outdoors and hunting organizations. His connection to the land was further evident in his work as a livestock rancher and organic farmer. For over two decades, Mike and Gail operated a successful greenhouse, bringing beauty and growth to the communities of Pierre and Ft. Pierre. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to the video lottery business and even a steakhouse in Winner, SD.

Mike’s legacy is carried forward by his loving wife, Gail, and their son, Guy and his wife Beata, and their children, Abby and Jack. Mike also leaves behind his brother, Ken Ferris (Huron, SD), and his children, KC and Sandy, as well as his sister, Myrna Weber (Dickinson, ND), and her children, John, Juli, Jim, and Jodi. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Clarence and Esther Kruse, his brother-in-law, Swede Weber, and his sister-in-law, Joyce Ferris.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, the family requests that you take a moment to create an act of kindness toward someone in need or donate in honor of Mike to an organization of your choice. Whether it’s offering a helping hand, sharing a warm meal, or simply giving a word of encouragement, your kindness will carry his legacy forward in the most meaningful way.

Family & friends are invited to gather at the Izaak Walton Center, “Ike’s” in Pierre at 5:30 PM on Saturday October 25, 2025 for a meal and time of fellowship to Celebrate Mike and share stories and memories.

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