PIERRE, SD – Walter Edward Heien, 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Avera St Mary’s Hospital in Pierre, South Dakota.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 6:00pm until 7:00pm, with a prayer service beginning at 7:00pm at Isburg Funeral Chapel in Pierre. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 12:00pm (noon) at Faith Lutheran Church in Pierre, burial will follow at 2:3opm at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Blunt. Walter’s funeral can be viewed at http://www.isburgfuneralchapels.com

Walter was born on May 16, 1931, in Lone Wolf, Oklahoma, to Edwin and Marie (Boelte) Heien. Walter grew up to embody the virtues of hard work, dedication, and compassion, which he generously shared with all who knew him.

Walter graduated from Lone Wolf High School and then went on to serve his country in the Air Force. He was very proud to wear his uniform. Through the years he shared many memories of his time in the service. He carried the lessons learned from his formative years throughout his life, instilling the values of education and perseverance in his children and grandchildren. Walter’s love for the land and the people he served was evident in his tireless efforts as a farmer and in his professional role in financial services.

He was a devoted husband to Wilma D. (Fenley) Heien for 68 years, and together they nurtured a family that grew to encompass a legacy of love and achievement. Walter’s role as a parent was one that he held with the highest regard, raising his sons Keith, Gordon, Troy, Mark, and Craig; as well as beloved daughter Lisa with the same integrity and strength that he demonstrated in every aspect of his life. Walters love for the Lord was very evident in every phase of his life. One of the places he loved to serve was through his local church in which he was very involved.

Walter’s legacy continues through his grandchildren who will carry forward his spirit of generosity and integrity. His great-grandchildren, who he adored, will grow up hearing tales of their great-grandfather’s strength, humor, and love.

Walter is survived by his wife Wilma; children: Keith (Vicki) Heien, Gordon (Diane) Heien, Troy (Susan) Heien, Craig (Jennifer) Heien and Lisa (fiancé-Adam Enzweiler) Heien; His grandchildren: Heidi (Christopher) Richardson, Holly (fiancé-Eric Knutson) Heien, Timothy Heien, Cody Heien, Jeremy (Sapphire) Heien, Kyra (fiancé-Eli Lilley) Heien, Joshua (Deurim) Heien, Michael (Heidi) Heien, Kaleb (Clarissa) Heien, Jacob Heien, Benjamin (Jessika) Heien, Austin (fiancé-Madison Landon) Heien, Adam Heien, Kyle Heien, Vandit Bystrom, Corsten Bystrom and great grandchildren: Cruz, Klouse, Beowulf, Ariella, Walter, Aurora, Raina, Achilles, Victor, Akima, Susannah, Russell, August, Aemeylia, Danver, Taylah, Meridah, Griffith, and Kyrin; and sister Evelyn Miller

Walter is preceded in death by his son, Mark Heien and sister, Dorothy Petzold.

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