LaWayne Rethke

LaWayne Rethke, age 77, of Milbank, SD, passed away on July 10, 2020.

A graveside service was held on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. at Milbank City Cemetery. Pastor Timothy Koch officiated.

A gathering of friends and family for LeWayne Rethke will be held at the Mundwiler Funeral Home in Milbank on Saturday, August 15, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. A prayer service will be held at 5:00 p.m.

While maintaining social distancing guidelines, we are now able to gather for visitations and services. The use of face masks by attendees is recommended, and we will continue taking the necessary steps to keep our facility clean. For those who prefer or require continued precautions, webcasting and/or livestreaming is available in most situations.

LaWayne Lester Rethke was born on March 16, 1943, in Milbank, SD, to Lester and Viola “Vilie” (Steege) Rethke. He grew up in the rural Milbank area and never lived more than five miles from where he was born. LaWayne graduated from Milbank High School in 1961. He was a hard worker and farmed all his life until later years, when he went to work doing over-the-road trucking.

Being the hard worker that he was, LaWayne did find time to enjoy dancing and listening to country music. He also loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren. LaWayne’s favorite part of farming was running his John Deere 7720 combine over his fields during harvest season.

LaWayne is survived by his children: Jason (Jada) Rethke of Milbank, SD; and Michon (Jerry) Carlson of Maple Lake, MN; grandchildren: Alisha (Andrew) Grove, Bryce Carlson, Brady Carlson, Brandon Carlson, Grace Carlson, and Jesus Rethke; great-grandchildren: Ellis and Indi Grove; brothers: Kip (Patsy) Rethke, Leslie (Regina) Rethke, and Luther Rethke; sisters: Leyann Gomez and Jana Rethke; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Troy Rethke; and brothers: Billy and Eugene Rethke.