RAPID CITY - Donald Earl "Ernie" Cavanaugh, 75, died on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at Monument Health - Rapid City Hospital.

Donald was born on Thursday, July 3, 1947 to Earl and Clara Cavanaugh in Huron, SD. He was raised in De Smet and graduated high school in 1965. Later, Don served in the United States Navy Reserve and was a member of American Legion Post 138 in De Smet. He spent most of his career with Black Hills Power and Light from which he retired as a Systems Coordinator.

Don loved the outdoors and time spent hunting and fishing. He also was a Harley rider taking advantage of the beautiful roads in the Black Hills. Later, he cherished time spent sharing his love of nature with his children and grandchildren. He will always be remembered for sharing his life lessons with them.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Suzanne Cavanaugh (Skyberg), his children; Doug Cavanaugh (Beth), Tammy Cavanaugh, Mary Cavanaugh, and Brian Cavanaugh (Misty).  He was a grandfather to seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  He also leaves behind his brother, Bernard Cavanaugh and sisters, Mary Lou Evans and Dee Likewise (Larry) as well as many other loving family members and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Margaret, and Alice.

Friends and family are invited to a vigil service and rosary on Friday, April 28, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. to be held at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  A Christian Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, April 29 at 10:00 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church with a luncheon to follow.  A private committal will take place at Mountain View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association.