Marie Alma (Stensaas) Stuen, 87, Sturgis, passed away on November 26, 2015, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. She had been surrounded by her loved ones and those that cherished her dearly.

Marie was born April 4, 1928, in Red Elm, SD, to Amy (Ross) and Arne Stensaas. Her family moved to eastern SD when she was four years old. She attended school near Vermillion and Volin, SD. She graduated from Volin High School and attended Dakota State Teacher College in Madison, SD.

Marie married Chester Stuen February 9, 1947. They farmed near Volin, SD, until moving to Sturgis, SD, in 1953. To this precious union three children were born; Ila Jean, Ronald, and Carolyn.

Marie helped with several organizations while the children were growing. She taught kindergarten at Grace Lutheran during "Missile Time." She worked at Sturgis High School until retiring in 1990. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Rachel Circle, L.C.E. Extension Club, DAV Auxiliary, Support Group, and the "Coffee Group."

Marie had many interests but especially enjoyed time with the grandchildren, camping, school events, rodeos, playing cards, and eating at Pizza Ranch with her friends and family. She loved baking goodies and passing out snacks at her card table. She enjoyed making care packages for the grandchildren and friends. She knew how to love people, serve them, and make them feel special. Marie will be missed by so many who loved her and although her passing leaves a void, we will hold dear to our precious memories. We are thankful for a wonderful example of what a true servant was.

Survivors include her daughters, Ila Kenoyer of Rapid City and Carolyn Park of Sioux Falls; daughter-in-law, Pat Stuen of Rapid City; eleven grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; and one brother, Harlan Stensaas.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Stuen; son, Ron Stuen; brothers, Albert, Gerald, Wesley, and Howard; and sisters, Amy, Elsie, and Helen. Her in-laws held a very special place in her heart. Her mother-in-law, Anna Stuen, was always a very special person to her.

Visitation will be at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis on Monday, November 30, 2015, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a time of sharing at 6:00.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church on Tuesday, December 1, 2015. Burial will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery. Refreshments will be served at the church after burial.

A memorial has been established.

Click on link to view service folder