Esther Marie Cleland, 86, Rapid City, SD, died Saturday, September 2, 2023 at Monument Plus Hospice House, Rapid City, SD.
Esther was born August 19, 1937 to Olaf and Clara (Enage) Erickson in Vivian, SD, part of a large family that included nine brothers and five sisters.
She attended grade school in Vivian, SD, and graduated from Presho High School. While in school she began her lifelong love of music where she sang in a school choir trio, the church choir, and as a soloist.
Following graduation Esther worked at the hospital in Chamberlain, SD as a CNA. It was here she met her future husband; Floyd Cleland and they were married in 1957 at Lake Mills, Wisconsin. Shortly after this Floyd enlisted in the US Navy and the couple left for Norfolk, VA, where Esther worked in the hospital. After two years they returned to South Dakota. They lived in several places eventually settling in Sturgis where they raised their family of three energetic boys. For many years Esther worked as a public health nurse and she also owned a Black Hills Gold jewelry store in Custer. SD. Her favorite job was working with and caring for the Sisters at St. Martin’s Monastery.
Esther was not one to sit still. She was always involved in whatever was going on; fishing and camping trips with the boys, painting the house, cutting wood, or helping them fix the car. She also developed her artistic talents, spending many enjoyable hours drawing. And no one ever left the house hungry, Esther made sure you had something to eat! Esther had an adventurous spirit that showed clearly as she rode with Floyd throughout the Black Hills on their Harley. Even an accident with a deer didn’t slow her down!
Esther loved spending time with her family and her grandchildren were a special part of her life. She loved and lived life to the fullest. Never one to complain, Esther had more faith and hope than 100 people.
Esther is survived by her three sons, Gary, Pat, and Kelly; one grandson, two granddaughters, one great grandson, one great granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd; nine brothers, five sisters; and a grandson, Bailey Cleland.
Services are scheduled for Monday, September 11, 12:00 noon, Grace Lutheran Church, Sturgis, SD. Burial will be at Black Hills National Cemetery.
A memorial has been established to Black Hills Works.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
