Laura Ida Compton

Laura Ida Compton, age 100, died of a stroke on November 30, 2016, in Spearfish, SD. 

Laura Compton was born November 22, 1916 to Fred and Ida Dachtler at the home of her grandparents, Charles and Rosena Dachtler, north of Sturgis. She graduated from Spearfish High School. After finishing 2 years at Spearfish Normal, Laura received her State Teaching Certificate and taught country elementary schools for 4 years at Tepee Creek School south of Marcus, Eden School north of Sturgis, Red Top School of Viewfield, and Riverside School between Nisland and Newell.

Laura Dachtler married L. Reid Compton June 3, 1940 at her parent’s home in upper Whitewood Valley with Rev. C.D. Erskine officiating. Laura and Reid had two sons, Myron and Charles.

Laura was a two time survivor of colon cancer. She was a 70 year member of SD Extension Club and active in 4-H, White Owl school board, Flying Farmers and Ranchers, and taught Sunday school in Marcus and Plainview. She enjoyed playing piano and singing, sewing clothes, and baking decorative cakes.

Laura is survived by her two sons: Myron (Nadine) of Spearfish, SD, and Charles (Myra) of Bringhurst, IN. She is preceded in death by her husband, L. Reid Compton.

Memorial contributions may be made in Laura’s memory to First Presbyterian Church, Sturgis or American Cancer Society.

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 7th,  at the First Presbyterian Church in Sturgis. Burial follows at the Bear Butte Cemetery.