Jean Rounds Wife of Senator Mike Rounds Dies From Cancer

Jean Vedvei Rounds, 65, wife of South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds passed away at her home in Fort Pierre on Tuesday, November 2. She had been battling sarcoma cancer since May 2019.

Jean Rounds was South Dakota’s First Lady from 2003-2011. She will be remembered for her advocacy for children’s literacy and raising awareness for women’s heart health. She was also instrumental in the design of the new executive mansion in Pierre that was completed in 2005, and served on the Capitol Complex Restoration and Beautification Commission until her death. 

She will also be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Jean and Mike met while attending South Dakota State University and were married in 1978. They raised four children and have 10 grandchildren. 

Rounds, who has been a US Senator since 2015  released this statement today: “The love of my life is with the Lord. No more treatments. No more pain. Just peace. South Dakota knew her as First Lady. We knew her as wife, daughter, mom, and grandma. She was everything to us. The prayers and support we received throughout this battle were powerful and made a difference. We ask for your continued prayer as we remember her life and grieve together as a family.”

To send condolences to the Rounds family, please visit rounds.senate.gov/Jean or send to:

P.O. Box 309—Pierre, South Dakota 57501