Dale Rilling | 1947 - 2024
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted Sep 4, 2024 | 3:01 PM / 131 views
ONIDA, SD – Dale Eugene Rilling, 77, a cherished member of the Onida community, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024, in Pierre, SD. The Onida Methodist Church will host Dale’s Funeral Services on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 10:30 am, with a committal service following at the Onida Cemetery where Dale will be laid to rest. For those who wish to pay their respects, visitation will be available at the Feigum Funeral Home in Pierre from 5:30-7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. The evening will be concluded with a Prayer Service at 7:00 pm.
Born in Onida, SD, on January 31, 1947, Dale was the beloved son of Lloyd and Elsie (Chenoweth) Rilling. Dale’s formative years were spent in his hometown where he attended school for all twelve years, creating memories and achieving noteworthy honors. His talent on the football field was undeniable, as he partook in an unbeaten season under coach Kassin and earned the title of All State player in 1964. After his high school triumphs, Dale pursued higher education for a year at Spearfish College.
On October 26, 1967, Dale proudly served his country by joining the Army. Following his training, he was stationed in Lai Khe, Vietnam. He served with honor until his discharge on October 2, 1969. Upon his return home, he found employment with Don Erikson at Conoco and then Woody Stahl. Eventually, Dale’s career path led him to become a well-respected parts man for Gary Chase at Chase Ford. When Gary sold to Lamb’s, Dale must have been part of the deal as he held the position for the rest of his career which spanned over 40 years behind the parts counter.
Following the loss of his father in 1974, Dale purchased a home and moved his mom in with him, which worked out well for both of them. His leisure time was often spent engaging in beloved pastimes such as fishing, spending time on his boat, snowmobiling, and playing marbles and cards. He had a vibrant sense of humor, always ready to share a joke or revel in the joy of friends and family.
Dale’s sister, LaVonne Weischedel, survives him along with thirteen nieces and nephews, numerous great-nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Maynard (Barb) Rilling, and his sister Carol (Gordon) Tople.
