Donald Bill Volmer

    Donald Bill Volmer, age 82, of Draper, died Monday, March 7, 2016, at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre.
    Donald William Volmer was born February 23, 1934, on the family farm 5 miles south of Draper, the son of Frank and Mary (Rubin) Volmer. He grew up on the home place and attended a small country school through the 8th grade. He went on to graduate from Draper High School in 1952.
    Donald was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Ellen Marshall, on July 9, 1953 in Draper. From this union five children were born. They made their home on a farm southeast of Draper where Donald raised cattle, chicken, and pigs. In 1961 they moved into town when they purchased and ran Don-Ells Market for over 30 years. Donald continued to farm until his death.
    Donald was an active member of the United Methodist Church.
    Donald lived for his family and friends. He enjoyed traveling, hunting and bowling when he was younger. He loved talking and got very excited when talking of his many experiences of farming. Donald took great pleasure in following his children and grandchildren on their many activities.
    Survivors include four children Darla Tucker of Woonsocket, Kim Schmidt and her husband Tony of Draper, Dell Volmer and his wife Christie of Amarillo, Texas, and Dean Volmer and his wife Terri of Draper; nine grandchildren, Donny, Amanda, Kayla, Jaime, Brady, Ellissa, Brandell, Jackson, and Tana; six great-grandchildren, Jacob, Oakley, Blake, Layney, Alexis, and Sydney; one brother Leroy Volmer and his wife Jeannie of Pierre; two sisters Florence Christian of Pierre, and Rosemarie Wold of Middleton, Wis.; a sister-in-law Delores Volmer of Presho; and a brother-in-law Earl “Shorty” Marshall and his wife Dianne of Draper.
    He was preceded in death by his wife Ellen; a son Donald as an infant; his parents Frank and Mary; and three brothers Frankie, Alfred, and Delmer; and a great-granddaughter Brooklyn Howard.
    Visitation was held on Friday, March 11, at the United Methodist Church in Draper, with a vigil service following. Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 12, at the Draper Auditorium with Pastor Rick Hazen officiating. Interment was at the Draper Cemetery.
    Arrangements are with the Rush Funeral Home of Philip.
    His online guestbook is available at www.rushfuneralhome.com