Richard Vande Bossche

Richard L. “Dick” Vande Bossche was born Aug. 9, 1926, to Henry and Mayme Paul (Miles) Vande Bossche in Mitchell, S.D.  He lived in Mitchell for his elementary and high school years. He graduated from Notre Dame High School. 

After high school, Dick enlisted in the Navy and spent two years in the service and was a veteran of World War II. After leaving the Navy, he attended college at the School of Mines in Rapid City, S.D., for one year. He then moved back to Mitchell to begin his lifelong career as a mortician. He received his degree after going to college in Chicago, Ill., attending Worsham Mortuary College. 

Dick married the love of his life, Joanie Schuver, Aug. 16, 1949.  After their marriage, they moved to Hot Springs, S.D., to work for McColley’s funeral homes. After working a few years in Hot Springs, they took over the funeral home in Edgemont, S.D. They stayed in Edgemont until their retirement in 1989. Dick and Joanie also ran the Inn by the River in Hot Springs until their complete retirement and moving back to Edgemont.

They enjoyed their retirement life doing craft projects, were active members of St. James Catholic Church and traveling to one of their seven children’s homes to visit grandchildren. Joanie died Jan. 19, 2006. Dick then moved over to Lusk, Wyo., where his was embraced by the community as a life-long member.

He was an avid fan of the athletic teams of Lusk and loved giving his advice to all who would listen.  Dick committed himself to his community throughout his life. He served on the parish council of St. James, was a member of the Lions Club, a third degree Knight of Columbus, member of the hospital board, member of the American Legion and served two terms as mayor and six years on city council of Edgemont. He was also very instrumental in establishing the ambulance service in the Edgemont area and was the ambulance service for many years. He was the volunteer fire chief for nine years and served for 15 years. Dick started the blood bank in Fall River County.  He was recognized by the State of South Dakota for his 51 years of service. 

Dick died Jan. 28, 2012, at the Niobrara Health and Life Center in Lusk. He was 85.  

Dick was preceded in death by his wife; one sister; and his parents. 

Rosary and wake service will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 1, at St. James Catholic Church in Edgemont. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 2, at St. James Catholic Church with Father Peter Kovarik officiating. Committal services will be at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 3 at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, S.D.

A memorial has been established to benefit St. James Catholic Church and Niobrara Health and Life Center Extended Life Facility.

Written condolences may be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.