RAPID CITY | Della Joyce Trankle passed away at her home March 31, 2017, she was 77.

Della was born July 30, 1939, to Julian and Dorothy Kirkvold in Clear Lake. The family moved to Sioux Falls in the early 1940's. She graduated from Washington High School in 1957, then attended USD and received a two-year teaching certificate. She earned her bachelor's degree from Black Hills State.

Della met her husband George while attending USD and they were married on August 16, 1959. in Sioux Falls. They moved to Rapid City in 1960.

Della taught at Pinedale Elementary School before retiring because of MS.

Della was a founding member and past president of the Black Hills Symphony League. She had a true dedication to the enrichment of children through music. She was a talented seamstress, and liked to play bridge. Together, Della and George belonged to the Black Hills Sports Car Club for several years. She especially loved to read and you could usually find her with a new novel.

Della and George liked to travel and took several trips to England. They also spent about a year in Arizona but Rapid City was always home.

Della is survived by her husband of 57 years, George; a sister, Linda (Les) Brandhagen of Sioux Falls; sister-in-law, Joyce Kirkvold of Jefferson, WI; brother-in-law, Andy Unruh of Sioux Falls; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Don; and sister, Faye.

Memorial services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home, with Rev. Herb B. Cleveland officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery.