Dr. Steven Kenneth Van Asma passed away on Veterans Day, November 11, 2024, at Monument Health, Rapid City, SD. He had a genetic disorder, which caused massive lung clots and stroke, causing his death. We are heartbroken that he is no longer with us!
Born at Ellsworth AFB, August 8, 1983, baptized and confirmed at Our Lady of the Black Hills, Steven grew up in Piedmont, SD attending schools in Piedmont, St. Elizabeth Seton and St. Thomas More in Rapid City, graduating from Sturgis Brown High School. The school sport he most enjoyed was cross-country and that enjoyment continued until he developed back problems about 7 years ago.
Steven expressed himself in art; as a result, majoring in art at the University of Wyoming at Laramie. During this time, he spent 3 months in China, learning Chinese cultural art, after which he graduated with a B.A. in Fine Arts. Shortly thereafter, he decided he’d like to become a dentist like his father. Steve had worked in his father’s office during high school. He then attended Black Hill State University to complete requirements for dental school. He was accepted to Tuft’s Dental School, Boston, MA. graduating with his Doctor of Medical Dentistry, D.M.D. Steven completed a General Dentistry residency at a VA hospital in Ohio.
Returning to the beloved Black Hills, Steven served the VA as a General Dentist at the Hot Springs’ Clinic. He has honored to work there for the past 9 years. The Hot Springs VA Community was his second family.
Survivors include his parents, Kathleen and Kenneth Van Asma, Piedmont; sister, Mary Goldade (David), Bellvue, CO; sister, Theresa Hammerquest (Jay), Rapid City; brother, Tom Van Asma (Elizabeth), Grassy Butte, ND; Laura Smrecek (Troy), Stokesdale, NC; brother, Nicholas Van Asma (Stephanie), Watford City, ND; 14 nieces and nephews (known to them as Uncle Steve), 1 great-niece and his dog, Grey.
Visitation will be Monday, November 18, 2024 from 9″30-10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Black Hills, Piedmont, SD. A rosary will follow at 10:30 and mass of Christian burial at 11:00. Burial will be at Piedmont Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers a memorial is set up at Storybook Island.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
