PIERRE, SD – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Maxine Ruth Erp Blasdell, a cherished sister, mother, grandmother, and, to all, a teacher and friend whose life was a beacon of kindness and creativity. She passed away on March 27, 2024, at the age of 82.

Maxine was born to Frank and Ida Erp in Onida, South Dakota, on October 25, 1941. She graduated from Onida High School in 1960. Throughout her life, Maxine was a passionate advocate for the arts. She worked at the Onida Watchman and in 1976, she opened The Busy B Ceramic Hive, where she provided an encouraging space for adults and children to discover creativity of their own. She generously shared her gifts with her community using the same care and diligence she took in every aspect of her life.

Maxine eventually moved to Pierre, where she worked for a counseling office and the South Dakota Medicaid office, demonstrating again her dedication to serving others and making a difference in countless lives. She found her spiritual home within the Southeast Pierre United Methodist Church, where her devout faith and lifelong passion for the arts overlapped, bringing the loving touch of handcrafted banners and decorations to church celebrations.

Maxine’s legacy is carried on by her loving children, Charles William Blasdell, Debra Lee Blasdell, her husband Stephen Earnest, Bobbi Jo Martin, her husband Brad Martin, and her granddaughter, Ashlee Nicole Martin. She will be remembered by her brother, Elton Erp, and sisters Eve Inglis, Mary Lynch, and Wylla Satterness. They, along with all who knew her, will miss her unyielding spirit and her capacity for love.

Awaiting Maxine with open arms are those cherished family members who departed before her, including her mother Ida Erp, her father Frank Erp, her sister Darlene Boren, and daughter-in-law Connie Blasdell. Together, they share eternal peace, leaving us to honor their legacies.

A memorial service to celebrate Maxine’s life will be held at 11:00 on May 4, 2024, at the Southeast Pierre Community Center, formerly the Southeast Pierre United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at the Onida Cemetery. We invite all of those whose lives were touched by Maxine to join us in honoring her memory. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Southeast Pierre Community Center, 2315 E Park St, Pierre, SD 57501.

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