PIERRE, SD – Rick D. Rodness passed away peacefully on April 24, 2024, in Highmore, South Dakota. Family will great visitors from 5:00-7:00pm, Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Lutheran Memorial Church to share stories and reminisce. A Memorial Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00am, Friday, May 3, 2024 at Lutheran Memorial Church in Pierre with inurnment following in Onida at the Onida Cemetery. A lunch and time of fellowship will follow at the Phoenix Center in Onida at 12:00pm. (Please stop by even if you are unable to attend the service.)

Born on October 13, 1955, in Sacramento, California, to Raymond and Lucille (Hiskey) Rodness, Rick’s zest for life and infectious humor touched everyone he met. He was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and friend whose legacy will be cherished by many. Rick’s early years were spent in Sacramento, where he grew up with his sister Terry. After graduating from high school, he embarked on an apprenticeship in 1979 that would set the stage for a lifelong career as a master paint contractor. His exceptional skills and dedication to his craft were evident in every project he undertook.

In 1985, Rick married Vicki Rose, welcoming her children, Scott and Valerie, into his heart as his own. The joy in their home multiplied with the birth of their daughter, Vanessa. The family moved to Onida, South Dakota, in 1992, and later to Pierre in 2002. Following his divorce from Vicki, Rick found love again with Laurie Schumacher, and they married in 2013, blending their families in a tapestry of love and mutual respect.

Rick is survived by his devoted wife, Laurie; his daughter, Vanessa (Zach) Marks, and their children Dominic, Landon, Hunter, Harper, and Hadley; stepson Scott (Angie) Jorgenson and their children Riley and Madelyn; stepdaughter Valerie Jorgenson and her children Morgan (Craig) (and their daughter Scarlett), Landon, and Harper; stepson Chris Schumacher and his son Jaxon; stepson Derek (Hope) Schumacher, and their children Jadyn and Kassidy, along with a host of extended family members and beloved friends. Preceding him in death were his parents, his infant brother Patrick, and his sister Terry.

Throughout South Dakota, Rick’s professional legacy can be seen in the many structures that bear his meticulous touch, the Pierre Hospital, the Agar Elevator, the Sully County Courthouse, and Riggs High School. He was well-known for his work ethic and his ability to make even the most strenuous job enjoyable. When not wielding a paintbrush, Rick could be found engaging in various construction projects, always keen to keep his hands busy.

Rick’s personality was larger than life. He was a consummate jokester, always ready with a prank for those he loved. His daughter Vanessa will fondly remember the countless hours they spent watching scary movies together. Rick was also an avid sportsman, enjoying shooting pool, playing ping pong, fishing, swimming, and baseball. His competitive nature was all in good fun; he thought of himself as a bad ass, though those who knew him best would just smile at his bravado. His artistic side shone through in his drawings, a testament to his creative spirit. When he wasn’t busy with one these activities, he could often be found spending time with his dogs.

Adventurous and loving, Rick and Laurie cherished their road trips to Sioux Falls and Rapid City, where they sought out great meals and made lasting memories. His handy nature and loving disposition made him the heart of his family. Rick’s life was a journey filled with laughter, love, and the joy of simple pleasures. He will be remembered as a man who lived life to the fullest, who loved deeply, and who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. His adventurous spirit, loving heart, and handy skills have left an enduring legacy. Rick D. Rodness will be profoundly missed, but the memories he created will forever bring smiles to the faces of his family and friends.

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