Marion’s Garden Home Owners Association

As we head toward the Holidays….Please take the time to
enhance Marion’s Garden with your brand of Christmas cheer!
The MGHOA Board has decided to pass on the lighting contest
this year.  We urge all residents to decorate as they see fit.

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Happy Thanksgiving to all of our MGHOA Families

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CRAIG D. SMITH, 89, passed away on October 31, 2023, in Pierre, SD at Avera St. Mary’s with his wife and family by his side. A visitation will be held from 5:00pm-7:00pm on Sunday, November 5 at Isburg Funeral Chapel with a prayer service starting at 7:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00am on Monday, November 6 at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with burial at Calvary Cemetery in Pierre. 

Craig was born on October 22,1934 in Park Falls, WI, the son of Tell and Mary (Organist) Smith. While growing up his family lived in Park Falls and Ashland WI, as well as Yale and Plankinton, SD. He graduated from Kennebec High School in 1952. He was a very good athlete in baseball and basketball, scoring 34 points in one game. Craig also represented the school at Boy’s State. 

He worked for the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) after high school graduation while attending South Dakota State University on the quarter system. He graduated in 1960 with a BS degree in Civil Engineering with no school debt. He moved to Pierre in 1960 and started working for SDDOT Highways in the Road Way Design Section.

In June of 1960, Craig asked a girl who was new in Pierre if she would like to attend a baseball game at Four Corners. Her name was Dorothy Varilek. She agreed and went to watch him play. He later became her softball coach. On August 5th, 1961, Dorothy and Craig joined in Holy Matrimony. They celebrated 62 years of marriage in 2023. He always called her the very pretty, smart, and special Dorothy.

His first duty with SDDOT was the responsibility for design of portion of the Interstate highway and design of sections of highways in certain cities. Craig obtained his Professional Engineer’s License by examination in 1970.

After 18 years with SDDOT Design, Craig accepted the position of Airport Engineer with the Department of Aeronautics, SDDOT. He was responsible for approval of all airport construction plans within the state of South Dakota. Craig had to review and approve all plans submitted by consultant engineers prior to submittal for advertising and construction. Craig also reviewed, for approval, the project after construction to ensure the project was constructed as per plans. Craig was not afraid to require the project contractor to make any changes in the construction to meet the requirement as per plans. His attention to detail and ethics earned Craig a sterling reputation that endures to this day. He was pleased to have worked with Consultant Engineers, FAA officials, and contractors to ensure projects were constructed as per plans which were an asset to the Airport Owners.

Craig was the President of the Regional Engineering Society, a member of the Conference for Bituminous Construction in Highways. He received the Knight of the Year Award from the Knights of Columbus in 2003. This is an honored award as only one Knight is chosen statewide. Craig was a member of Engine Company #2 of the Pierre Volunteer Fire Department and obtained his pilot’s license prior to an airplane crash in 1977, in which he was injured, along with pilot Howard Ice, and co-workers Dale Russell and Dean Gretschman. It slowed him down but did not stop him from enjoying an active life.

Craig and 5 others were responsible for getting Little League Baseball started in Pierre, South Dakota. Craig also was responsible for starting a Boy Scout Troup and Basketball team for 8th grade boys at St. Peter & Paul’s Church. He enjoyed coaching as much as playing. He coached baseball, softball, and basketball. Craig also enjoyed introducing others to the game of golf. He and Dorothy travelled South Dakota with a group of friends, playing golf and enjoying life. Craig had not one, but two, holes-in-one at Hillsview golf course. For years, Craig was the first person to buy a season pass to Hillsview.

His greatest treasures in life were his wife Dorothy, daughter Lisa (Darren) Larson, sons Brian (Kim), Jeff (Jamie), and Kevin (Lonna), 12 grandchildren, and three great-grandsons.

He was able to hunt with his sons and watch his daughter play golf from 8th grade thru high school. This was just a few of the many events Craig and wife Dorothy were able to watch involving their sons and daughter and grandchildren.

Craig was preceded in death by his parents Mary and Tell, his sisters Karen, Gloria, Shirley, and Lacarda and brothers David, James, and John.

 

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Please keep the Mitchell family in your thoughts and prayers

Pat Mitchell, 63, of Fort Pierre, SD, died at his home on
Wednesday, September 27, 2023.

Prayer service and time of sharing will be held Tuesday, at 6:00 p.m. October 3, 2023 at the Community Bible Church, Pierre. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 4th at 10:00 a.m. at the Community Bible Church followed with burial at Scotty Philip Cemetery, Fort Pierre, SD.

 

Patrick Allen Mitchell was born on January 29, 1960 to Gay and William Mitchell in Oxnard, CA. In 2003, in a traditional Native American Ceremony, Pat was bestowed with a Native American name “Ku Ta he ya o mani” which means “Rides With the Wind” and was presented with his Eagle feather.

Pat attended K-12 school in Pierre where he was active in basketball, football and track.

His early years were full of adventure – Hanging out with friends, taking care of his pets, including his pet monkey, working at the gas station, and participating in sports. In 1978 during his senior year Pat was crowned Homecoming King. He then went on to attend Northern State College and played football.

In 1982, Pat married Kelly Irion and they had 2 children – Matthew and Mark.

From a young age, Pat worked at Don’s Sinclair along side his Uncle Don. His career in the industry continued and in 1983 he became the sole owner of Don’s Sinclair.

Throughout the years, Pat was a well respected and a loved business owner in Pierre, helping countless young people by employing them and helping shape their lives in a positive manner.

Pat was always the first to lend a helping hand, giving his time and assistance in numerous activities and events, sponsoring sports teams, charitable causes, Pierre and Ft. Pierre youth events, and participating in parades, school and city activities. Pat never sought the limelight and gave unconditionally without seeking recognition.

Pat was a member of the SD Petroleum and Propane Marketers Association serving as both the Treasurer for many years and then as President. His impact and loyalty to the industry was obvious to those who worked with him. In 2016, Don’s Sinclair was recognized for 60 years of business from Sinclair Oil Corporation – second oldest Sinclair station in the United States.

In 1996, at the top of Heavenly Mountain in Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Pat and Shavonne were blessed in marriage and began their life journey together. To that union, Pat was lucky to gain 2 more children – Brittani and Austin – whom he loved as if they were his own. Together Pat and Shavonne raised 4 beautiful children and were blessed with 8 amazing grandchildren. Pat’s family, children and grandchildren were the most important people in his life and always came first. He gave selflessly to all those who he knew and loved.

Pat often traveled many miles to attend sports and school activities for family and friends. Weekends were spent traveling to wrestling tournaments, football games, rodeos, and numerous events.

For many years, Pat played and sponsored the Don’s Sinclair softball team with all his “guys” building lifetime friendships and creating lasting memories.

Pat loved golfing with friends on their annual trips to Deadwood and Phoenix, which were always a highlight for him. He was fortunate enough to hit a hole in one! One year he even won the coveted “plaid jacket”.

Pat hosted the Don’s Open Golf Tournament from 1989-2011 for his many customers, friends and family who cherished the event. In 2023, his son Matthew once again started the tradition of the Don’s Open, raising money for ALS, a cause that is near and dear to our hearts. This was a very proud occasion for Pat.

Pat truly loved to ride his Harley and often said it was the only time he was able to completely clear his mind. When riding his Harley with his wife Shavonne, he experienced true joy. Through the years, they logged over 100,000 miles together.

The Sturgis motorcycle rally was an annual event along with yearly motorcycle trips which created a lifetime of memories. Pat was the Road Captain of the “Dirty Nozzles” leading his friends as they traveled each summer to a new destination from coast to coast, north to south.

Pat loved to travel taking many trips with family and friends. He enjoyed shopping but often said he was “a buyer, not a shopper”. Pat had a great sense of humor and kept everyone entertained with his stories, jokes and fun antics.

Pat’s generosity continues to have a major impact on the Pierre and Ft. Pierre communities and his legacy will live on through the many lives he has touched. ✓✓

Pat is survived by his wife Shavonne Mitchell, his sons Matthew (Mandy) Mitchell and Mark Mitchell, his daughter Brittani (Shawn) Hussey, 8 grandchildren: Tayson, Madyson, Braxtyn, Brecklyn, Sid Grace, Jaxon, Joey, and Hadley, his mother Gay Rhoades, his sister Michele (fiancé Chris Sherman) Rhoades, sister-in-law Barb Mitchell, nieces Samantha (Dan) Severin and Abbie (Chad) Kasten as well as numerous other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his mother and father-in-law Duane and Sharon Hannum, brothers and sisters-in-law: Scott (Toni) Deal, Tanya (Craig) Heller, Sean (Kellie) Deal, Tember (Troy) Beckett, Sanford (Ronda) Deal, Charlo Deal, Colby (Pam) Hannum, and Tiffany (Kent) Larson.

Pat was preceded in death by his father William Mitchell, his dad Richard “Dick” Rhoades, his twin brother Michael Mitchell, his son Austin Scott and his nephew Parker Mitchell.

Memorial donations can be given to the ALS MN/ND/SD Chapter: 1919 University Ave W, Suite 175, St. Paul, MN  55104.

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Gaylord Sonnenschein ~ 1947-2013

Gaylord Lee Sonnenschein, 76, passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side, on August 3, 2023, at his home in Fort Pierre, South Dakota.

Funeral service will be 10:30 am on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at Community Bible Church with a visitation starting at 9:30 am. Pastor Chance Sumner will be officiating the services with burial at Riverside Cemetery in Pierre, a luncheon to follow the committal at the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center in Fort Pierre. For those unable to attend the service it will be live streamed in the link below.

Gaylord was born on July 30, 1947, in Pierre, to Earl and Bertha (Rohrbauck) Sonnenschein. Gaylord lived a life full of love, service, and dedication to his family and community.

Gaylord spent his entire life in Pierre, he was an active member at the United Methodist Church growing up and later the Wesleyan Church, proudly serving in many ways and he enjoyed singing in the choir. Gaylord graduated from TF Riggs in 1965 where he was a standout athlete participating in football, basketball, baseball, and track. After graduation he went on to attend South Dakota State University, playing both baseball and basketball and he earned his Ag/Econ degree, graduating 1970. During college he served in the South Dakota National Guard.

Gaylord was united in marriage to Cathy Strudle on August 15, 1970 at First United Methodist Church in Pierre. After marriage they began their life together on Mission Ridge Road while Gaylord ranched, he loved caring for the cattle. After the drought of 1976, his career then took a turn towards finance, where he excelled as a bank manager at Home Federal. In this role, he was known for his willingness to go the extra mile to help customers and colleagues. After leaving the bank, Gaylord worked at the South Dakota Department of Insurance until his retirement in 2017. Gaylord continued to find joy and peace working the land as a rancher following in his father’s footsteps.

Gaylord was an avid Vikings fan, being their #1 cheerleader, he may not have been able to griddy but he showed his support by always having a Vikings phone case. Every year he and Cathy would bring the family up to Minneapolis for the Vikings vs Bears game with the several other family friends, who were always cheering for the silly Chicago Bears. They may have been in the nosebleeds of metro dome, but they sure did have a good time cheering SKOL VIKES! He thought he hit the jackpot when his favorite son-in-law, Sam got those swanky seats at the new stadium! His love for the Vikings continued throughout his entire life, even though they let him down more often than not, he was a fan through thick and thin.

When not cheering on the Vikings you could find Gaylord out on the golf course, playing a round of golf with the “Good Ol’ Boys.” They played many a round at Hillsview. His other favorite courses included Town & Country Club in St. Paul, MN and Sutton Bay in Agar, SD. He always looked forward to his annual trips with his golfing buddies to Arizona and Palm Springs.

Gaylord had a love for keeping his car, shoes, and hair in pristine condition. Whenever he visited Tiffany and family in Minnesota, the minute they got their car unloaded, his favorite thing to do was take it to Paradise Car Wash. Who would have thought his green 1997 Chevy ranch pickup, that had more problems than not, would outlive him! Everyone in Pierre knew Gaylord in that pickup and saw him driving his route around town.

Gaylord is survived by his wife, Cathy Sonnenschein, and their three children: Tiffany (Sam) Anderson, Taylor (Sarah) Sonnenschein, Tarrah Sonnenschein, special nephew Shane Severyn and his SIX grandsons: Zac Anderson, Max Anderson, Sawyer Sonnenschein, Sutton Sonnenschein, Peter de Hueck, and Franklin de Hueck. His legacy will also continue through his siblings: Judy (Gary) Larson, and Diana (Syd) Stevens and Clayton (Sharon) Sonnenschein. His family will remember him as a loving husband, father and brother who always put others before himself. He was preceded in death by both his parents.

Gaylord’s impact on his family, friends, and community was profound and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In Lieu of flowers, Memorials may be directed to Community Bible Church, Countryside Hospice, PAWS, Hopeless to Homes, or the Pierre Athletic Booster Club.

 

 

Marion’s Garden Canal System a NO WAKE Zone!

All Watercraft Users Must
Obey NO WAKE ZONE Rules
in and around Marion’s Garden.

May 31, 2023

The Canal System will be sprayed for Weed Control|
this coming weekend:
Friday, June 1 – Sunday, June 3

The herbicides used are not harmful to humans, pets, or wildlife, but caution is

advised.
Residents are advised to avoid drawing canal water for irrigation purposes for a

period of 7 days following  application.  Additionally, swimming and fishing is not

advised out of an abundance of caution.

Signage is posted at the highway entrance to Marion’s Garden as well as the Missouri

River entrance to the Canal System.

May 13, 2023
0830am

2023 MGHOA Community Cleanup 
Saturday, May 13, 2023
Pending Due to Weather Forecast

 

 

 

 

Drivers Beware!

Upon request of MGHOA
Board of Directors,
The City of Fort Pierre has
added a stop sign at the intersection of
Port Charlotte and Skerrols at the south end of the
Marions Garden Apartment complex.
The action was taken following several near-miss
incidents at the busy intersection.

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 “Signs, Signs, Everywhere are Signs”

Residents of Marion’s Garden have noted the addition of signage to our community.  Many have been in place for several years and your Marion’s Garden Homeowners Association Board has added a few new advisories this summer.  Residents are reminded of the following:

• MGHOA endorses a a Neighborhood Crime Watch Policy – Members are reminded to report any suspicious activity to proper authorities for resolution of the situation.   If you see something that doesn’t look right or seems suspicious – Please Report It!
• The area surrounding the Canal proper is private property and as such trespassing is not allowed.  In addition diving is prohibited from the canal walls. Swimming in the canal is discouraged, and there is no lifeguard on duty at any time.  The Canal is posted as not being safe for winter activities due to the unstable water levels experienced through the winter months.  Traversing the Canal during the winter months is discouraged.
• Marion’s Garden Marina is intended for the sole use of the members of that organization.  There is to be no diving or swimming off the dock system.
• The playground at Railway Park is intended for the use of Marion’s Garden Residents.  All playground equipment is to be used for the purposes intended.  Should a resident note any unsafe use or any damaged equipment, it should be reported to a Board member immediately.
• Marion’s Garden has a public bike path passing through.  Please note the location of that path and observe all “No Parking” zones.
• Residents are reminded that on street parking is not allowed.  All residents must park in driveways.  The occasional visitor is allowed to park on the street if off street parking is mot available.  This advisory allows Marion’s Garden residents to avoid having to install sidewalks on their property, leaving the roadway open for bike paths and pedestrians.
• Finally, The posted speed limit within the development is 25MPH…we have alot of children and pets in the area…Please remain alert at all times.

Marion’s Garden Aerial Photos
circa 1994-1995
Courtesy Dave and Linda Bonde

Historical Map of Fort Pierre and the Missouri River

Willow Island and Teton Island (Marion’s Island) are actually part of the present day Marion’s Garden.  According to the attached 1891 U.S. Surveyor General’s map, present day Marion’s Garden subdivision was largely part of Teton Island and a small portion of Willow Island.  The western and eastern boundaries of the subdivision were actually river channel surrounding the islands.

Teton Island, better known as Marion’s Island, was largely a garden area owned by Hormidas Marion.  In early early half of the 20th Century, the area now known as Teton Island development, south of the car bridge, was known as Marion Gardens, operated as a truck farm.  Note the name was Marion Gardens…not Marion’s Garden.

The approximate location of the west abutment of the train bridge is noted on the map.

Please feel free to correct, amend, or add your comments by emailing at info@mymghoa.com.

1891 Map
Marion’s Garden Approximate Location Map

Interesting Driving Tour of Pierre-Fort Pierre

The Historic Pierre organization (www.historicpierre.com) has put together an interesting brochure detailing a driving tour of the Pierre-Fort Pierre area.  The tour lists 32 points of interest in the area.  Please click the link below to view the document.

Pierre-Fort Pierre Driving Tour

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Upcoming Events:

Next Board Meeting Date:

Second Tuesday of Each Month
Please contact :
Marlin Roseland ~ 605-222-9437
For Current Meeting Location
Fort Pierre, SD
6:oopm

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