JUNE SORENSON
June Ann (Pope) Sorenson, 87, was born at home, in Wagner, to Everett and Ethel (Carpenter) Pope on December 16, 1937. She passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of June 14.
June married Russell Sorenson, the love of her life, on September 18, 1955 at East Lake Andes Lutheran Church. In 1961 they moved to Rapid City where they have lived since.
Our Mom loved to read the Bible, and to read and write poetry. Mom lovingly crocheted baby blankets for each of her grandchildren. Mom welcomed everyone into her home and would happily feed anyone. Mom said, “I want to see everyone eating.”
Mom’s favorite childhood memories in her own words: A playhouse was a great thing to have, your own private place, a place to have fun and still not mess the house up. This playhouse was in the granary, an empty bin over the summer, all winter it contained corn, but in the summer, it housed a young girl and dreams.
Such carefree days I used to spend on my bicycle. Where the folks found the money, I’ll never know. I only know that perhaps praying (selfishly) for a bicycle was the first I ever remember praying, and then when I received it, such heaven. Ride, ride, ride, was me. I learned how to ride without hands, steering with the body. I could steer with my feet. Oh such daredevil ways. When you hit the dirt or grass, you’d goofed.
June is survived by her husband of 69 years, Russell; her six daughters: Jean A (Jim) Henderson, Rapid City; Janet (Victor) Carrillo, Omaha NE; Sally (Dallas) Henderson, Cambridge MN; Connie Marrs, Rapid City; Nancy (Rune) Torgersen, Mitchell; June K Matson, Rapid City. 18 Grandchildren, 24 Great-Grandchildren, one Great-Great Grandchild; her brother Dale Pope of Ohio, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, one brother, her in-laws, one sonin- law, and numerous family and friends.
As a family, we appreciate Monument Home Hospice for the excellent care and compassion our Mom received.
A funeral service will be held at East Lake Andes Lutheran Church on Saturday, August 9 at 2:00 p.m. with burial after the service. East Lake Andes Lutheran Church 28977 US Highway 281, Armour.
Due to sensitivities, the family requests artificial flowers only.
In June’s own words, “I’ve had a good life-so happy and content.”