PIERRE, SD – Kyle Elliott Amidon, 37, was born on October 12, 1987, in Bakersfield, California, and went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 5th from 6:00pm until 7:00pm, with a prayer service beginning at 7:00pm at New Life Church in Pierre. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 6th at 11:00am at New Life Church with burial to follow at Riverside Cemetery in Pierre. The service can be viewed at http://www.isburgfuneralchapels.com
From the very beginning, Kyle was a light in the lives of those who loved him. Born at 9 pounds 12 ounces, with a full head of striking red hair and piercing blue eyes, he captured the hearts of everyone around him. Even as a baby, he stood out—his bright hair and warm, playful spirit turned heads and left lasting impressions.
Family meant everything to Kyle. He loved nothing more than spending time with his parents, siblings, and cousins. Whether it was a family gathering or just hanging out, Kyle’s presence made everyone feel cherished.
Kyle found a passion for football at a young age, starting in fourth grade and playing all the way through high school. At Bakersfield High School, he was named Defensive Lineman of the Year as a freshman, showcasing his strength and determination on the field. But what truly set Kyle apart was his compassion. When he knocked an opposing player down, he was the first to offer a hand to help them back up. His coaches and teammates teased him about it, but that was just who Kyle was—kind, empathetic, and always thinking of others.
He attended Quailwood Elementary School, Fruitvale Junior High, and graduated from Bakersfield High School in 2006. During high school, Kyle interned in the IT department at Fruitvale School District, beginning his journey in technology. He later studied at California State University, Bakersfield, and Bakersfield College while working in computer services, combining his love for technology with his strong work ethic.
Kyle’s career path was diverse and reflected his dedication to providing for his family. He worked at PCEXGEN, a computer repair store, before joining his grandparents’ bee business, Jim’s Honey Farm, in 2006. He worked there for three years before moving on to Adee Honey Farms, the largest bee company in the country, where his job took him to Nebraska. However, Kyle’s true passion lay in technology, and he eventually transitioned back into IT, taking a job at Boone County Health Center in computer support.
Family always called Kyle back home. In search of better opportunities and to be closer to loved ones, he returned to Bakersfield, where he worked as a systems administrator for RLH Fire Protection. In 2019, after falling in love with the city of Pierre, South Dakota, during seasonal work with his family’s bee business, he made the brave decision to move there with his three beloved daughters.
Pierre, South Dakota, became Kyle’s true home, where he built a life he loved. He worked for Morris Inc. before landing his dream job with the South Dakota Housing Authority as a systems administrator in late 2022. He thrived in that role and often spoke about retiring from the job he loved so much.
Above all else, Kyle was a devoted father. His daughters—Kassidy (12), Addylyn (7), and Kayleigh (4)—were his entire world. Kyle didn’t spend his time hunting, fishing, or going out with friends. Instead, his greatest joy was being with his girls. Whether playing games, working on computers, or simply being present, he poured his heart into every moment with them.
In these past few months, as Kyle faced his illness, the kindness and support of those around him have been nothing short of extraordinary. To the men and women who stepped in to help Kyle and our family during this incredibly difficult time—your love and compassion have meant the world to us. There are no words to fully express our gratitude for the care, prayers, and encouragement you gave. You have been our strength when we needed it most, and we will never forget your generosity and kindness.
Kyle is survived by his daughters, Kassidy, Addylyn, and Kayleigh; his mother and stepfather, Donna and Donny Garrett; his father and stepmother, Kent and Ana Amidon; and his siblings: Ashleigh (and her husband Blaine Carlson), Joseph (and his wife Nicole Garrett), April (and her husband Kevin Burnes), Kayla Garrett, Robert (and his wife Kari Amidon), and Keana Amidon.
He is also survived by his grandmothers, Jeannie DeFoor and Nancy Kunishige, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
Kyle’s life was a testament to kindness, love, and devotion. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
