SIOUX FALLS, SD – Dorothy Nygaard-Gibbs, 83, of Sioux Falls, SD and formerly of Pierre, SD died Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

Dorothy Nygaard was born August 21, 1940 to Bert L. and Clara B. (Froslie) Nygaard in Webster, SD. She grew up on a farm by Bradley, SD, graduating from Bradley High School in 1958.

Dorothy attended Augustana University where she received a two-year degree in 1963 and a four-year degree in 1970. She eventually earned her Masters of Education degree.

Dorothy taught first grade for 34 years, seven at Brandon Valley and the next 27 were in Pierre. Teaching first graders was her passion and the biggest reward was seeing students learn and grow in a school year. In 1989, she won the US West Outstanding Teacher Award. She retired on June 1, 1997.

Dorothy met Dennis Gibbs on February 16, 1989 on a blind date, set up by her friends, Donna Fjelstad and Sally Christenson. It was love at first sight. They were married at Lutheran Memorial Church in Pierre, SD on July 8, 1989.

Dorothy was a member of Lutheran Memorial Church, Stephen’s Ministry, a Pierre City Commissioner, a PTA lifetime member and stayed active in many other Organizations.

Dorothy enjoyed all sports. In 1957, she was named to the SD Women’s Softball Association’s All State Team in Rapid City, SD. She and Dorothy Smith won the Women’s Best Ball tournament at Hillsview Golf Course in 2004. Dorothy played with Community Bible Church in the Pierre-Fort Pierre Women’s Softball League. She also loved to read and write letters and cards.

Dorothy was a caring, loving and creative person who enjoyed her family and friends to the fullest. She was happiest doing things for others. She was a Garfield fan and collector of windmills, sunflowers, Radio Flyer wagons and Snow Villages.

Dorothy is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Dennis of Sioux Falls; nieces, Rebecca Johnson of Watertown, Brenda Nygaard and Rhonda Nygaard both of Sioux Falls and Jill Everson of Aberdeen; nephews, Randy Nygaard of Sioux Falls and Mike Maher of Minneapolis; Dennis’s step-son, Mark Platz of Chandler, AZ; great-niece, Breanda Laird of Sioux Falls and a special friend forever, Sally Christenson of Pierre.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; older brother, Donald Nygaard; younger Brother, Robert Nygaard as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Dorothy will be cremated and a graveside burial service will be held at a later date.

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