Bernard "Ben PR" Roose, 83, died Monday, June 24, 2024 at Monument Health.

He was born on December 20, 1940 in Rapid City to Bernard N. and Ruth E. (Strom) Roose. He attended Canyon Lake Elementary and graduated from Rapid City High School in 1960. Throughout his life, Ben worked at Donaldson's, Kmart, department manager at Gambles, and the City of Rapid City Parks Department.

Ben was an original author and historian, reproducing the book, "The Grey Wolf of South Dakota," in 1981. Over the years, Ben was referred to as Mr. 40 Ford, collecting and restoring old vehicles. He was a member of the Minneluzahan Historical Society, a dance instructor with the Black Hills Opry Dancers in the 80's. He enjoyed genealogy, collecting coins and Charles Russel memorabilia and cars.

He is survived by his children: Jill Mitchell, Gregory Roose, Raymond Roose, Douglas Roose, Catherine Roose, Jeffery Schaak, and stepdaughter, Christina Hanson; and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Private graveside services at Mountain View Cemetery will be held by the family.