RAPID CITY | Donald C. Michlitsch, 69, died Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2013, from Alzheimer's, at Rapid City Regional Auxiliary Hospice House. Don was born October 20, 1944, in Tacoma, WA, to Edward and Albina (Drazga) Michlitsch. He earned his bachelor's degree from Seattle University and a master's in counseling from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. Don married Nancy Hibbard in Tacoma, WA in 1970. He moved to Sioux Falls that year, where he began his career with SD Services to the Blind and Visually Impaired. In 1978, he moved to Rapid City, where he served as supervisor and vocational rehabilitation counselor for western South Dakota until his retirement in 2000. Don enjoyed travel, the outdoors, and cooking. He was a staunch advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. He devoted many years of service as well as his talents as a cross-country skier to Black Hills Ski for Light; he played an important role in the South Dakota Association of the Blind; and he frequently served on city and state committees on disability. He will be remembered for his wit and sense of humor as well as his caring commitment to others. He is survived by his wife Nancy Michlitsch of Rapid City; a daughter, Gretchen Michlitsch (& Allen Hillery), of Winona, MN; two sons, Michael Michlitsch (& Jenny Michlitsch), of Lafayette, CA, and Mark Michlitsch, of Rapid City; his brother, David Michlitsch, of Puyallup, WA; four grandchildren (Mason, Cody, and Brooklyn Michlitsch of Lafayette, CA and Kirsten Hillery of Winona, MN); and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at Canyon Lake United Methodist Church on Monday, Oct. 28, at 11:00 a.m with Rev. Eric Grinager officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Black Hills Ski for Light and to the South Dakota Association of the Blind.