Dennis Michael Merkwan

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Dennis Michael Merkwan, age 62 of Sioux Falls, SD passed away at home surrounded by his family and loved ones on Thursday May 17, 2018 in Sioux Falls, SD after a long battle with brain cancer.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday May 22, 2018 at Renner Lutheran Church, in Renner, SD.

Dennis was born on February 29, 1956 at Saint Michaels Hospital in Tyndall, SD to Emil and Patricia (Bartekoske) Merkwan.  He grew up on the family farm located 10 miles north east of Tyndall.  He graduated from Tyndall High-School in 1974.  After graduation Dennis was working for Farmer’s Union Cooperative in Tyndall, SD in the gas station servicing cars and spraying crops.  At the age of 21 he became the Assistant Manager of the Farmer’s Union Cooperative in Tyndall and at age 22 he moved into a Manager’s position with Cenex in Tripp, SD.   In 1978 he married Lorrie Ann Kralicek whom he fell in love with at first site in 1974.  Together they were blessed with the birth of 2 daughters, Katherine and Amy, while living in Tripp.  In 1984 Dennis took another manager’s position with Cenex in Wilmot, SD.  In 1989 he changed careers and became a loan officer at First State Bank until Dec. 2009.  By the time he left the bank he was Senior Loan Officer and Vice President.  Dennis was able to continue his passion in working with the farming community as a crop adjuster.  His last position was with Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) until his retirement due to his health.

Dennis’ other passions aside from work was church, family, his grandchildren, friends and golf.  He couldn’t wait to get on the course as much as possible with his grandchildren and golf buddies.  Dennis also had a love for cars.  He started out with his 1970 Chevelle and from there he purchased many more family, work and fun vehicles.  He always said after he made a purchase, “Now I’m looking for my next vehicle”.

His devotion to his family and friends was immeasurable and generous.  He always wanted to help family, friends and customers in any way he could.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Lorrie Kralicek Merkwan, his two daughters and sons-in-law, Katherine and Cory Turner of Renner, SD and Amy and Mike Koppien of Sioux Falls, SD and his grandchildren Abagail and Kayla Turner, and Aaron and Demi Koppien.  Brother and sisters-in-law; James and Jolene of Tabor, SD and LaVonna of Tyndall, SD; nieces and nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and brother Steve.