Lois Louise Arneson-Meyer

Lois Louise Arneson-Meyer, 67, of Rapid City, South Dakota, passed away on February 12, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on August 12, 1958 to Jim and Virginia ‘Ruth’ Laughtland in Anchorage, AK.

Lois was a remarkable woman, strong, intelligent, and deeply compassionate. She lived her life with purpose, kindness, and a steady devotion to helping others succeed. For 34 years, Lois served as an Assistant Professor at the South Dakota School of Mines, where she touched countless students’ lives through her dedication, encouragement, and unwavering belief in their potential. Upon her retirement, she was honored with the title of Professor Emeritus, a reflection of the lasting impact she made through her decades of service and commitment to education. Her impact extended far beyond the classroom, and her legacy will continue through the many people she inspired.

Lois was the beloved wife of her wonderful husband, Mac, and the best mother and mother-in-law John and Chellsee could have ever asked for. As Nana, she absolutely adored Avery, Everly, and Della. They were her sunshine and her pride.

She also held her brother, Jim (Sue), and her sister, Virginia (Steve), close to her heart, treasuring the lifelong bond they shared. Lois was a proud and loving aunt to Josh (Billie), Kristy (Kevin), Matt, Adam, and Jared, and a devoted great-aunt to Emma, Luke, Emery, Jack, and Logan. Each of them held a very special place in her heart.

Lois didn’t just love her family, she had a deep love for animals as well and cared for them with the same compassion and tenderness she showed to everyone in her life.

Lois will be remembered for her strength, her warmth, her sharp mind, and her ability to make others feel supported and valued. While her family’s hearts are broken, they are deeply grateful for the time they had with her and for the love and light she gave so freely.

Lois is survived by her husband, Mac Meyer; her son, John (Chellsee) Arneson; and her beloved grandchildren, Avery, Everly, and Della Arneson; her brother, James (Susan) Laughtland; and her sister, Virginia Butcher (Steve Butcher, deceased). She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Kristy (Kevin) Wake (parents of Emma and Luke Wake), Josh (Billie) Laughtland, Matt Butcher (father of Emery and Jack Butcher), Adam Butcher (father of Logan Butcher), and Jared Butcher.

She is also survived by her extended family through marriage, including Mac’s siblings: Midge (Gail) Hemeyer, Michael (Jan) Meyer, Marcy (Arne) Barber, Mathew (Sharon) Meyer, and Melanie Fast, as well as many additional nieces, nephews, extended family members, and closest friends.

Lois was preceded in death by her mother, Virginia “Ruth” Laughtland; her brother-in-law, Steve Butcher; her aunt and uncle, Robert and Lois Bakewell; her in-laws, Edwin and Jean Meyer; and other extended family, friends, and beloved pets.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home. A procession will follow to Pine Lawn Memorial Park and celebration of life following at the Canyon Lake Resort Lodge from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.