Donald "Donnie" Eymer
Donald "Donnie" Eymer, age 81, of Milesville, South Dakota, died on Monday, May 20, 2019 at the Hans P. Peterson Memorial Hospital in Philip.
Donald Bruce Eymer was born on January 15th, 1938, in Pierre, South Dakota, the son of Bob and Laura (Hand) Eymer. As a young boy he attended grade school at Hardingrove Country School and had fond memories of feeding cattle with the team. Donnie later graduated from Philip High School before enlisting into the US Army in May of 1956. He served in Germany for a year and a half and was honorably discharged in May of 1958.
Upon returning to Philip, Donnie married his high school sweetheart Marcia Baker. The newlyweds ventured to Los Angeles, California where Donnie worked as a local truck driver for one year before having their first child, Jill. In 1961, they moved to the family place in Milesville, South Dakota where they had their two sons, Tim and Jim Bob.
Donnie influenced many ranchers in years to come as he raised his herd of Herefords and Red Angus. Donnie had several accomplishments including a school record for track, being the co-captain of the football team, and receiving a sharpshooter and good conduct medal while in the Army.
Donnie was a loving father, grandfather, and friend to many. He attended many rodeos and sporting events—and even dance recitals. He enjoyed playing pitch and cribbage with his family and friends. Donnie participated in many community events, was a county commissioner for two terms, and became a serving member of the Harding Grove Evangelical Free Church. Donnie was committed in his faith and gave all his glory to the Lord. He is loved by many.
Survivors include his loving wife, Marcia Eymer; children Jill Eymer and friend Brian of Sturgis, Tim Eymer and his wife Kim of Spearfish, and Jim Bob Eymer and his wife Kayla of Milesville; four grandchildren Brendon and Brittany Eymer, and Melanie and Heath Williams; three great-grandchildren Nolan and Jaden Williams, and Jolee Kallander; one sister Sharon Coyle of Philip; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Donnie was preceded in death by his parents Laura and Bob Eymer; a daughter Joan Eymer; and sisters Shirley Parsons and Diane Schurr.
A visitation will be held from 5-6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, at the Rush Funeral Home in Philip.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 23, at the Hardingrove Evangelical Free Church in Milesville, with Pastor Gary Wahl officiating.
Interment with military honors will be at the Milesville Cemetery.
Lunch and time of fellowship will follow at the Milesville Hall.
Arrangements are with Rush Funeral Home of Philip.
