RAPID CITY - Jim L. Hennen, 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 surrounded by loved ones.

Jim was born February 28, 1938, in Deadwood, SD to Clifford and Helen Virginia (Bedsaul) Hennen.  He attended school in Deadwood and graduated in 1956.  Jim attended the South Dakota School of Mines graduating with a degree in structural civil engineering.  He married Sondra "Sandy" Snapp on August 24, 1958.  They shared 65 memorable years together.

After graduation, Jim was employed at Wood Span Products in Rapid City where he focused on bridge design.  Shortly after, he worked for Peter Kiewit Construction, contributing to the minute-man missile site project. In 1963, the family moved to Pierre, SD where Jim began work for the SD Department of Transportation.  He was one of the project engineers who contributed to the construction of the Keystone Wye, which opened in 1966.  In 1978, Jim and his family returned to the Black Hills when he accepted the role as Assistant District Engineer.  He retired after 34 years of service to the department in 1997.

Jim gave his life to God and enjoyed frequent fellowship with his church family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his three brothers and his sister, and many faithful friends.  Jim is survived by his wife, Sandy, his children; Tracie Hennen-Bierwagen of Ames, Iowa, Greg (Marci) Hennen of Independence, KS, and Heather (Stuart) Martin of Brentwood, TN.  He is also survived by his five grandchildren; Katie (Edward) Kruse, Eric (Misty) Bierwagen, Bailey (Matt) Bean,  Ashlyn Hennen, Samuel Martin and four great-grandchildren.

Jim will be deeply missed by family and friends.  He was known for his faith and loved to tease.   He was well-equipped with a quick wit and a good-natured sense of humor.  Memorials can be directed to Monument Health Home+ Hospice House of Rapid City, Rapid City Youth and Family Services, or any charity of your choice.

Friends and family are invited to a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 23, 2023 to be held at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Nemo Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.