RICHARD D. DVORAK

Richard Dean Dvorak, 83, passed away on January 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at the Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls. A lifelong Christian and devoted family man, Richard’s life was marked by service, storytelling, and a deep connection to the land he called home.

Born on December 6, 1942, in Wagner, Richard grew up with strong country roots. He began his education in a one-room schoolhouse and graduated from Ravinia High School in 1960. He was proud to be a Ravinia Bear, where he played quarterback for the football team and ran track. But the best part of high school was meeting his sweetheart, Darlene Johnson. Richard said that he chased her until she finally gave in. They have many memories of going dancing and roller skating with friends at Rest Haven.

Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. But before being stationed in Germany as a tank mechanic, he married the love of his life, Darlene on May 5, 1962. Both he and Darlene cherished the time that they had together as newlyweds in Germany, and the grandkids loved to hear Grandpa tell the story of how Grandma traveled across the world on her own to be with him and somehow it all worked out.

After returning home from the Army, Richard embraced the life of a farmer and rancher—a role he cherished throughout his life. Even today, he was proud to be the only member of the Dvorak family in his generation to stay and work the land. His sons eventually joined him, and together they expanded the farm and ranch. In 2022 Dvorak Herefords were honored as the SD Hereford Breeder of the Year.

When Jeff and Boyd completely took over the farm and ranch operations, Richard retired but continued to play an active role working with his boys and “supervising” the farm and ranch. Richard was a man of the land. Whether overseeing harvests or tending livestock, Richard found purpose and fulfillment in working the land and even in his final days reminded us all that God is in the hills.

But Richard’s family was his greatest joy. As the kids and grandkids were growing up, he rarely missed a ball game, concert, or other event. So proud of each of them, he would tease us that one day he would shout from the stands, “That’s my boy!” or “That’s my girl!” All of the kids and most of the grandkids took driving lessons from Richard in his 1940s Jeep Willy. While he was hesitant to say “I love you,” his actions showed us that he loved us deeply.

Richard was a devoted member of East Lake Andes Lutheran Church. His faith was central to his life; he served on the church council, taught Sunday School, and helped care for “God’s Acres,” contributing both time and heart to his congregation. A man of deep faith, Richard was often called on to lead prayers and devotions for family and community gatherings.

He had an extraordinary gift for friendship and humor. Known for telling stories and jokes that could light up any room, Richard was a friend to everyone he met. Mornings often began with what he fondly called “therapy”—sharing coffee with friends while exchanging laughs and wisdom. He also enjoyed attending auctions with his friend Dick Crabtree where he delighted in finding unique oddities to add to his collection—each item with its own story waiting to be told. Later in life, he took up writing poetry and would often share it at special events, like class reunions and birthdays. To have had Richard write you a poem was a special treat.

Finally, Richard was also very active as a leader in his community, from 4-H to the American Legion and more. He was most proud of having served more than 20 years on the Charles Mix Electric Co-op Board of Directors (nine years as president) and many years on the Wagner Farmer’s Co-op Association Board.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Darlene; children Jeff (Tiphany) of Lake Andes, Boyd (Jenni) of Pickstown, Laura (Dave) Livermore of Forest Lake, MN, and Tara (Eric) Weeman of Chamberlain; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and two more great-grandchildren on the way. His legacy lives on through them—in their memories of shared laughter, lessons learned on the farm, and stories passed down around the card table.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents William and Grace (Harris) Dvorak; many aunts and uncles, his brother Robert J. Dvorak; and sister Evelyn Hawley.

Richard lived a full life rooted in faith, family, friendship, and farming. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all who carry forward his legacy.

A Celebration of Life was held on January 10, at East Lake Andes Lutheran Church.

If you prefer to contribute to a memorial in lieu of flowers, memorials will be directed to East Lake Andes Lutheran Church. Peters Funeral Home in Wagner was in charge of arrangements.