Douglas Lee Foster

Douglas Lee Foster was born on June 25, 1952, to Lee and Eva (Fanelle) Foster. He was raised on the Foster Family Homestead in rural Hartford, SD. As a child Doug loved the farm, and he loved sports. He played basketball, football and baseball and was on the track team. His favorite hobbies included riding his bike and collecting baseball cards. He often wondered how many thousands of dollars he wasted in the baseball cards he attached to his bike spokes! Doug loved learning and was a very stellar student. He attended Grand Meadow Country School and graduated from Tri-Valley High School in 1970. Doug also loved spending time with his dad and learning about the good old days. He knew all about the Foster Family stories and enjoyed sharing those special memories with his kids and grandkids.

Doug married Connie Lewis on May 25, 1974. Doug loved his wife through thick and thin. Together, they built their life and raised their 4 children on the Foster Family Homestead. Misty Joy, Kazmann Janae, Rocky Lee and Lacie Lynn were taught how to love others, work hard, and always stick together!

Doug had a passion and zest for life like no other. Those that knew Doug always commented on his welcoming smile. It was like an invitation into his soul. It was a gate into him where everyone was welcome and treated with kindness. He had the ability to make anyone feel comfortable, and he made friends with everyone he met.

Doug loved his family with all of his heart. He was the “go – to” guy for everyone on everything! From car problems, to algebra equations, Doug always seemed to know the answer. If he didn’t know, he always figured it out! His life revolved around his children and grandchildren, and he took time to play every chance he got. Some of his most cherished memories were giving 4-wheeler rides to the grandkids around the family farm.

Doug always took great care of his family. He worked hard on the family farm raising hogs and grain. He was also employed by John Morrell from 1979 – 1991 and worked for Tri-Valley School from 1995 – 2012.

Doug had a heart to help those in need. Whether someone needed a ride, food, clothes or shelter, Doug always wanted to help out. He helped others silently and never wanted anyone to know where the blessing came. That was Doug…a gentle giant.

Doug entered the Kingdom of Heaven on July 13, 2012. He was at home…his absolute favorite place in the entire world. Doug will always be remembered for his warm smile and kind heart. Doug will be missed by many, but the legacy he left behind will live forever.

Survivors include his loving wife Connie, children Misty Joy (Alex) Szczech of LeMars, IA, Kazmann Janae (Shane) Teel of Colton, Rocky Lee (Jackie) Foster of Sioux Falls, and Lacie Lynn (Ross) VanEck of Sioux Falls and grandchildren Tyler and Trevor Szczech; Connor, Tabor and Teagen Teel; and Marin and Hadlee Foster.

Services will be held at Central Valley Community Church in Hartford. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 18th from 4pm – 7pm followed by a prayer service with Masonic rights. The funeral service is scheduled for 10am Thursday, July 19th.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents Clifford Leon (Lee) and Eva Foster.