PIERRE, SD – Donald Dean Jacobson, known as D.D. to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2024, in Pierre, SD. An Open House celebrating D.D.’s life will be held at the American Legion Post 8 Cabin on Friday, June 21, 2024 from 3:00-6:00pm with military honors being presented at 3:30pm.

Born on July 31, 1950, to Donald W. and Bonnie Jean (Koch) Jacobson, D.D. was a man whose roots ran deep in the South Dakota soil, and whose life was a testament to the values of hard work, service, and family.

D.D. spent his formative years on ranches around Midland and Philip before moving to Fort Pierre in 1964. A proud graduate of Stanley County High School, Class of 1968, he was an active participant in wrestling and football, showcasing his competitive spirit and teamwork. Following high school, D.D. answered the call of duty and served in the Navy from 1970 to 1972, a period of his life that instilled in him a profound sense of patriotism and camaraderie.

Upon returning to South Dakota, D.D. lived in various cities before pursuing further education at Lake Area Vo-tech. In 1977, he graduated with a degree in civil drafting technology, a field in which he would excel for many years. D.D.’s passion for land surveying led him back to Fort Pierre in 1984, where he began his long and distinguished career with Aaron Swan & Associates. His dedication to his craft earned him the prestigious title of South Dakota Society of Professional Land Surveyors Surveyor of the Year in 2001. D.D. retired from the job he loved with Aaron Swan & Associates in 2019.

Beyond his professional achievements, D.D. was a committed public servant, dedicating eight years to the Stanley County Commission. An avid outdoorsman, D.D. found joy in hunting, fishing, and the art of grilling and smoking meat. D.D.’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will continue to live on through the memories he created with those he loved and the lasting impact he made on his community.

His love for his community was only surpassed by his love for his family. D.D. is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Gail; his son, Travis (Patti); his grandson, Zak (Abbie); great-grandsons, Jonathon and Jethro; his brothers, Jeff (Gayle) and Jerry (Karen); his sister, Dawn (Norm); and numerous cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, generosity, and unwavering love for his family.

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