Rapid City – Leona Engel-Bebee, 97, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025, at the Hospice House in Rapid City.  She was surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Leona was born on October 6, 1927 in Wessington Springs, South Dakota to August and Mathilda (Krueger) Dammann.  She joined two older brothers, and one older sister.  Starting at a young age she worked on the farm doing chores which included milking cows and bringing the cobs and coal in for the fire.

Leona attended country school through 8th grade and graduated from Wessington Springs High School in 1945.  She enjoyed singing in the choir and was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church.

Leona married Erwin Engel after high school and they had three boys, Gary, Randy and David.  In 1958 they made their home in Rapid City.  Leona married George Bebee in 1985 and they enjoyed 25 happy years together.  Leona made life-long friends working at RCC and MDU.  She retired in 1993.  She was a member of the Christ Church.

Leona was a strong, independent woman who always put her family first.  Leona never hesitated to share her opinion.  Her grandchildren were fortunate to grow up six blocks away and were able to spend quality time with her multiple times a week.  Leona always supported her children and grandchildren and never missed school, sporting or music events.  Leona had an incredibly generous heart.  Leona was blessed with a green thumb, and everyone admired her perfectly manicured yard with a variety of flowers and plants.

Leona is predeceased by her sons, Gary, Randy and David; her first husband, Erwin Engel, and her second husband, George Bebee; her daughter-in-law Vikki; and her parents and siblings.  Leona is survived by her granddaughter, Kalin (Troy) and her children, Merina (Zac), Merissa (Bob) and their children Walter and Thelma, Kathryn (Christian) and their child Wrenly, and Allie; grandson, Kerry (Rhonda) and their child Keegan; granddaughter, Kasey (Matt) and their children, Grace, Eric and Levi; daughter-in-law: Arelen; step-children: Loren, Kevin (Rene), Lissa, Jeff (Anne) and Kenya and their families; special friends Harold and Cam and their children Jason (Mistie) and Justin (Kristin); as well as several nieces and nephews.

The visitation will be held Friday, January 17th from 5-7 p.m. at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be held Saturday, January 18th at 2:00 p.m. at Christ Church with Pastor Golden officiating.  Burial at Pine Lawn Cemetery will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Hospice House or to the charity of your choice.

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