PIERRE, SD – Michael Maskovich, 78, of Pierre, SD, died on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Monument Health Hospice House in Rapid City, SD. Mike’s memorial service will be at 10:00am (central time) on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Isburg Funeral Chapel in Pierre, with visitation beginning at 9:30am. Burial will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery at 3:00pm (mountain time).

Michael Maskovich, the son of Michael J. Maskovich and Ethel R. (Hiller) Maskovich, was born on February 17, 1948, in Pierre, South Dakota.

Mike attended school in Fort Pierre, where his strong work ethic began at an early age. While in the seventh grade, he started working at Fischer Bros. Store in Fort Pierre. During the summers of 1966 and 1967, he participated in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Summer Youth Program. After graduating from Stanley County High School, he worked for Western States Wholesale in Pierre.

In April 1968, Mike was drafted into the United States Army. Following basic training at Fort Lewis, Washington, he attended helicopter maintenance and crew chief training at Fort Rucker, Alabama. From March 1969 to March 1970, he proudly served in Chu Lai, South Vietnam. During his military service, he received the Southeast Asia Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. He also qualified as an Expert with both the M-14 and M-16 service rifles.

Mike began his law enforcement career with the Fort Pierre Police Department in 1973, serving as both a police officer and later as Chief of Police. In 1983, he joined the Pierre Police Department, where he continued serving his community until his retirement in March 2010. Including two years as a part-time officer at Pierre Regional Airport, Mike dedicated a total of 39 years to law enforcement.

On June 27, 1970, Mike married the love of his life, Vickie L. (Varilek) Maskovich. Together they built a loving family and were blessed with three children: Bradley, Stephanie, and Jerid.

Mike found great joy in camping, fishing, riding motorcycles, and woodworking. Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his family. One of his favorite sights in nature was the majestic Bald Eagle. He and Vickie especially enjoyed watching and photographing bald eagles around the Pierre area, creating many cherished memories together.

Grateful for having shared his life are his children: Bradley Maskovich (Sarah), Stephanie Briggs (Jon), and Jerid Maskovich (Jeanine); numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; along with many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife, Vickie Maskovich; his parents, Michael and Ethel Maskovich; his brothers, William “Bill” Maskovich, Charles “Chuck” Maskovich, and Kevin Maskovich; and his sister, Janice Hardy.

 

Mike will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his honorable military service, his distinguished career in law enforcement, and the kindness, integrity, and quiet strength that touched all who knew him.

 

Condolences can be sent to the family at 903 Memory Lane, Pierre, SD 57501.

1. Add to favourites
2. Report abuse