Kathryn Ann Herrick (Kathy) passed away peacefully, at the age of 79, on Christmas morning, December 25, 2024, surrounded by love and the gentle playing of Amazing Grace. Kathy's life was a testament to kindness, selflessness, and love. It is fitting that someone who gave so much to others left this world on such a sacred day, a special reminder of the eternal gift of her life and legacy.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00PM, Sunday, December 29, 2024 at Skroch Funeral Chapel in Flandreau, SD with family visitation one hour prior to the service.

Kathy faced a hard-fought battle with cancer from September to December, demonstrating unwavering grace and strength. Her goal of celebrating one last Thanksgiving and Christmas with her family was achieved, a reflection of her deep love for those closest to her and her remarkable resilience. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Home Hospice in Brookings, SD. The family would also like to recognize and show their appreciation for the exceptional care and compassion the staff at Dougherty Hospice House provided to Kathy in her final days. Their kindness brought comfort and peace during a difficult time, and their support will always be remembered.

Born on December 5, 1945, to Carlton and Minnie Roberts Hopkins Herrick in Flandreau, South Dakota. Kathy's childhood was filled with the simple joys of rural life. At the age of six, she moved with her family from Flandreau to a farm near Elkton, SD, and later to a farm by Bushnell, SD. She attended country grade schools, where her love of learning shone brightly. Whether participating in spelling bees or helping her teachers; Kathy's enthusiasm for knowledge and service to others was evident from an early age. She graduated from Elkton High School in 1964.

In August 1964, Kathy married and began a new chapter of her life. Though the marriage ended in 1986, it brought her greatest blessings: her daughters, Rhonda Rae in 1965 and Lisa Lea in 1968.

Kathy's hard-working spirit and dedication defined her professional life. She held various roles, including positions at Pamida, J.C. Penney, and South Dakota State University, where she worked for a decade and was honored as Employee of the Month. Her career also included roles at Duling Optical, Bostwick's, and Daktronics, where she again earned Employee of the Month recognition. Later, she moved to Watertown, working at K-Mart, Herberger's, and CoEv before returning to Flandreau in 2004 to start a house-cleaning business. Through this venture, Kathy found immense joy and formed lasting friendships with the families she served.

Kathy's creativity and warmth found expression in her cooking and baking, especially when her daughters and grandchildren were young. She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku, brightening the lives of those around her with her humor and kindness.

Her greatest joys were her family: daughters Rhonda Brown and Lisa Skovlund, sons-in-law, Paul Brown and Russ Skovlund; and grandchildren: Nicholas Brown, Jordanna Skovlund, and Makenzie Skovlund. Kathy also treasured the companionship of her beloved dogs, Muffin, Annie, and Paige, who brought comfort and happiness throughout her life.

Grateful for having shared her life are her daughters and their husbands, Rhonda and Paul Brown, and Lisa and Russ Skovlund; her beloved grandchildren: Nicholas (Carmen), Jordanna, and Makenzie; her siblings, Roger (Nancy) Herrick and Barbara (Alvin) Anderson; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Kathy was welcomed into eternal rest by her parents, Carlton and Minnie; her brothers: Lauren, Maynard, Allen, Vince, Ronnie, and Eddie; and her sisters, Marilyn and Sharon. Together, they celebrated the most joyous Christmas reunion.

Kathy's life was a gift, and her legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.