Roger John Keffeler, 79, of Enning, SD, died at Monument Sturgis Hospital Saturday, August 26, 2023.
Roger was born, November 12, 1943, to Charles “Bud” and Mae (McPherson) Keffeler. He grew up on the family ranch east of Enning. Roger attended school through the 8th grade at the Pellegrin School, and graduated from Sturgis High School in 1961. After graduation, Roger worked many jobs. He worked construction for Dean Strong and Charlie Nohava, hauled machinery for John Deere in Sturgis, and partnered with Bub Bradley in a sodding business.
In the spring of 1975, Roger married the love of his life Diane Coleman, from Piedmont. They lived in Sturgis until 1976, then moving to Enning after buying the ranch from his mother. Roger took pride in raising good cattle and in his ranch. It remained his home until losing his battle with cancer.
Roger enjoyed playing and coaching softball. He was especially proud of the CMC men’s softball team. In 1991 they placed 2nd in the State D tournament, then travelled to Huron and placed 1st in the State Classic. He also enjoyed drag racing and stock car races. Most family vacations revolved around going to a racetrack.
In August of 1982, Roger and Diane welcomed a daughter, Kristal, and then another in September 1984, Michelle. Many miles were put on to watch his girls compete in sports. Track meets were his favorite, through middle school, high school, then college, Roger rarely missed a meet and kept track of every throw in a notebook. He was very proud of his girls. When grandchildren arrived all the rules went out the window. Payson, Parker and Brayden were the light of his life.
Roger is survived by his wife, Diane; daughters, Kristal Keffeler and Michelle (Richard) Boyles; grandchildren, Payson and Parker Boyles and Brayden Dutt; brother, Duane Keffeler; sisters, Darlene Simons and Kay (De) King; brother-in-law, Clifford (Nancy) Coleman; sisters-in-law, Patti Handley and Annette Tveidt, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law; Earl and Esther Coleman, brothers-in-law; Douglas “Chick” Simons, Roger Tveidt, and Pat Handley; and sister-in-law Sharon Keffeler.
Visitation will be Wednesday, August 30, 2023, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Kinkade FuneralChapel, Sturgis, SD. Funeral services will be Thursday, August 31, 2023, 11:00 a.m., Central Meade County Community Center, Union Center, SD, burial to follow at White Owl cemetery.
A memorial has been established.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
