Rapid City - Emory Vance Speer, Jr. was born October 28, 1939 in Birmingham, Alabama, to Emory Vance Speer, Sr. and Mary Neal Speer (Meek).

It is with great sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing of Emory; lovingly known as "Sonny." Sonny passed from this world to the next to join his beloved wife, Darlene; his youngest sons, Robert and Jeffrey Speer; his parents; and his brother, James Speer.

After high school, Emory joined the United States Air Force. Upon completion of duty, he served his community as a police officer for the Rapid City Police Department.

He married Darlene on May 14, 1960 in Rapid City. To this union, they shared three sons: Michael, Robert, and Jeffrey.

Emory was an avid adventurer. He loved to travel and immerse himself in history; especially his family history. He loved to share his knowledge with anyone who would listen. He made friends everywhere he went, and oh, there are so many!  He was a loyal member of the Peace Officers Association and Blue Knights Motorcycle Club, even keeping his motorcycle past his ability to ride.

Emory is survived by a son, Michael (Cindy); grandchildren, April Hoell (Geoff) , Nathan Speer,  and Kyrie Speer;  great-grandchild, Lance Hoell; sisters, Jean Godfrey, and Judy Hall; a brother, John Speer; honorary daughter and lifetime friend Ronda Lamke, and honorary grandchildren Jacob Mundt, Justus (Taylor) Mundt, Justin (Katelyn) Mundt, and Ryland Lamke;  former daughter-in-laws Teresia Shipp and Mitzie Haney; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 12, 2023, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  A service will follow at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Pastor Randy Sturzenbecher. Lastly, a procession, led by the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club, will end with interment at Black Hills National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family, respectfully, requests donations be made to the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club.