RAPID CITY – George N. Trankle, 92, died Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Westhills Village Healthcare.

George was born January 7, 1934, to Elmer and Winifred (Babbington) Trankle. He graduated from Rapid City High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 1955, serving until his honorable discharge on December 19, 1957. He then attended the University of South Dakota, where he met Della Kirkvold of Clear Lake, SD. The two were married on August 16, 1959, in Sioux Falls. George also attended Black Hills State.

The couple made their home in Rapid City, where George went to work for his father at Elmer's Electric. In the mid-1970s, he sold the business and returned to the University of South Dakota to earn his master's degree in political science. He then went back to the trade he knew well, working as an independent electrician around Rapid City.

George was active in the Elks Club, and he and Della were members of the Black Hills Sports Car Club. Together they treasured their many trips to England. George was an avid reader who kept a lively interest in politics and current events throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Della, in 2017; his brother, Robert Trankle; and an infant sister.

George is survived by his sisters-in-law, Linda (Les) Brandhagen and Joyce Kirkvold; his brother-in-law, Andrew Unruh; and many nieces and nephews.

He will be laid to rest privately at Mountain View Cemetery.