Seth John Kunert, 87, Sturgis, died Tuesday, September 29, 2009, at Sturgis Regional Hospital.

Seth was born October 28, 1921, in Arlington, SD, to Fred and Jennie (Mohror) Kunert. He was raised in the Arlington area. Seth joined the US Army and served his country honorably during WWII.

Seth married Lucille "Lou" Snyder in Denver, CO, on October 10, 1942. Following the service, he attended SD State College and graduated in 1955.

The family moved to Rapid City in 1956. He worked for MDU in Rapid City before transferring to Sturgis in the early 1970's. Seth managed the Sturgis office until he retired after 21 years of service.

Seth was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church serving on the church council and assisting the minister. He was active in the Arts Council, performing in several plays. Seth loved the Black Hills and roamed the area researching its history, metal detecting, and panning for gold. He used the information and photos to give slide programs to service clubs. Seth enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers-in-law and was an avid golfer well into his 80's.

Survivors include his wife, Lou Kunert, Sturgis; two daughters, Dianne Huston, Tucson, AZ, and Kay and husband Ken Root Kunert, Durango, CO; two grandchildren; Scott Huston and Paige Huston and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Glen and son-in-law Ronald Huston.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 5, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Sturgis with Rev. Michael Fox officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the Sturgis Veteran's Honor Guard will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

Memorials have been established to Meade County Senior Center and Grace Lutheran Church..