STURGIS - William Edward "Big Mike" Weiers, 78, Sturgis, died Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at the Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Mike was born March 24, 1930, at Sturgis, to Peter and Henrietta (Richards) Weiers. Mike grew up in the Tilford area and attended school in Sturgis. After his father died, he went to work for various farms and ranches, drove trucks, and worked construction until he went to work for Homestake Mining Company. He worked for the Homestake Mine for 42 years.

Survivors include his daughters, Lin (John) Carr, Deadwood, Barbara Wherry, Tucson, AZ, and Carol Brumagim, Loveland, CO; one brother, John Weiers, Sturgis; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter; one grandson; one son, Michael; six brothers; five sisters; and his very good friend, Georgia Marple.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.

Visitation will be from noon until 9 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, May 19, at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis, with the Rev. Kerry Prendiville officiating.

Burial will be at Mountain Lawn Cemetery near Lead at a later date.

A memorial has been established to the Northern Hills Area CASA Program.