RAPID CITY- Evelyn L. Van Gorkom, 94, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus, Sunday, October 8, 2017.

She was born November 6, 1922 at Viborg, SD. The daughter of Peter & Lillie (Midland) Peterson. Evelyn graduated from Hurley High School and attended Business College in Sioux Falls. She was a secretary and bookkeeper at various businesses in Sioux Falls, California, and Colorado.

Evelyn was married to Carl Van Gorkom on March 24, 1956. They made their home in Sioux Falls until 1965 when they moved to Colorado and then Rapid City.

Evelyn was a loving, devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was always so joyful, sweet, and kind. Never was a harsh word spoken of anyone. She was a "one-of-a-kind" who was truly loved by everyone who knew her. She will be greatly missed!

She was a member of Canyon Lake United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women for 52 years.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband; parents; sisters: Myrtle Olsen, Elma Helgager, Naomi Flyger, Bertha Bogard, Phyllis Gerken, and Bernadine in infancy; brothers: Jorgen Peterson, Duane Peterson and Wesley Peterson.

She is survived by her two loving daughters: Carla (Kelly) Buum; LuAnn (Rick) Lane; five grandchildren: Sasha and Jordan Smith, Josianne, Justine, and Caleb Buum; six great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at Canyon Lake United Methodist Church with Rev. Eric Grinager officiating. Visitation will be for one hour prior to services.

Interment will follow at  12:00 noon Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.