Dr. Wayne Sletten, Rapid City, SD formerly of Faith , SD went to be with his Savior and Lord on August 21, 2023 after 90 years of a life well lived.
Wayne was born March 7, 1933 at Mobridge, SD to Philip and Anna (Swenson) Sletten. After several moves, the family settled in Winthrop MN where Wayne graduated as valedictorian from high school in 1950. He attended the University of Minnesota graduating in 1956 with a doctorate of veterinary medicine.
Wayne met the love of his life, Karen Wagner, while interning near Lark, ND and their journey began. Wayne and Karen married July 21, 1956 and moved to Faith SD where they raised their five children. Wayne was the first full time veterinarian in the area and his practice spanned over 50 years. At one time, he served as president of SD State Veterinary Association.
Wayne and Karen were very active members of Bethel Lutheran Church where Wayne served in many leadership capacities. He enjoyed arranging Sunday afternoon outings for church members and friends. Wayne’s love for music led him to begin the Easter Cantata that many enjoyed for years.
Wayne was a loyal Faith longhorn fan rarely missing a football or basketball game. He also followed the Minnesota Twins and Vikings ever hopeful for a winning season. Wayne loved tennis and was instrumental in establishing a tennis court in Faith which was enjoyed by young and old.
The foundation of Wayne’s life was his relationship with Jesus Christ. It was important to Wayne that everyone know that this relationship is available to all. One of Wayne’s favorite adventures was spending time with cattlemen from the Masai tribe in Kenya, Africa where he and Karen volunteered for a short-term mission trip with the Christian Veterinarian Association.
Grateful for having shared his life are his wife Karen of 67 years; children Jayne (Dan) Jordan, Lynn (Jon) Wellumson, John (Tammy) Sletten, Amy (Carl) Engwall, and Kary (Mike) Dornish. 13 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by this parents, infant brother, sister Joanne Bergsrud, and grandchildren Kaitlin, Jared and Jordan Engwall.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 1 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Kirk Funeral Home in Rapid City.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 2, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church in Faith.
