Ralph Walter Dyce

Ralph Walter Dyce, 85, of Brookings, South Dakota, passed away on April 22, 2026. Born on January 11, 1941, Ralph was a man defined by his quiet strength, a remarkably dry sense of humor, and a tireless work ethic.

Ralph dedicated the majority of his career to John Deere in Madison, SD, where his mechanical aptitude and reliability were deeply valued. Outside of work, he was most at home in his garage, tinkering with engines and working on cars. A true enthusiast of high-speed machinery, he spent years following sprint car racing and NASCAR, and he cherished time spent outdoors on his snowmobile with friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Rena Dyce and Elsie Irene and Harvey Niewald, and his brother, LeRoy Dyce of Baltic, SD.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marlys; his sister, Betty Almich (Bill), his brother Darrell, and their extended families.

Ralph’s legacy continues through his sons and their families: Shannon and his wife Marlee, along with their children Keanna (Elliot) and Jackson, and great-grandchild Teddy; and Robbie and his wife Megan and their family.

Ralph will be remembered as a steady, hardworking presence who could fix just about anything and always had a clever, understated word for those around him.

Details regarding a memorial service will be announced at a later date.