Michael "Mike" Edward Clemens died at home in Rapid City, SD surrounded by his family on Friday, September 6, 2024, at the age of 85.

Mike was born on May 14, 1939 to Ray and Othelia (Tillie) Clemens. He grew up in Chamberlain, SD, where he played baseball, football, and basketball. He was elected Homecoming King at Chamberlain High School.

Mike attended college at The University of South Dakota pursuing a degree in education. At USD, Mike was the president of his fraternity and played both baseball and basketball.  It was there where he met his wife, Joan Geilenkirchen, who was attending Mount Marty College, in Yankton, SD. They were married on December 27th, 1961. Mike and Joan were blessed with three children; Christine (Chris), Diane, and James (Jim).

Mike and Joan moved to Rapid City after college where Mike became a teacher at North Junior High. He went on to advance his education by getting his counseling certificate and Masters in Administration. Mike was the counselor at North for many years, and later went on to become the Vice Principal. Mike ended his career in education in 1990, as the principal of South Junior High when he retired.

He continued his love of sports by becoming the Director of the Rapid City Summer Recreation Department and by refereeing both basketball and football at the high school and collegiate level for numerous years. You could always find Mike watching sports on T.V., especially football. Mike was even known to place a small wager or two on the games.

Mike loved to play golf throughout his years. He was an avid golfer at both Meadowbrook and Elks Golf Courses, where he was a lifetime member. Additionally, he was fortunate enough to play golf at St. Andrews Golf Course in Scotland.

Mike and Joan were snowbirds in Arizona for many years where they made numerous friends, played endless golf, and spent time with their Arizona children and grandchildren. Their popular St. Patrick's Day party was something the whole park looked forward to every year!

Mike's greatest joy in life was his family. He made it a priority to spend as much time as possible with his loved ones, whether that be in person or on the phone. Mike would always ensure he was at every sporting event for his kids and grandkids throughout the years. He was the person who taught most of his grandchildren how to drive, starting in his golf cart and working their way up to the Post 22 parking lot, setting up cones and garbage cans to weave through. Mike was also known to take his family to his favorite lunch spot, Sam's Club, for a famous hot dog and soda.

In August 2014, Mike had his first stroke, which ended up causing him to be 'bed bound' shortly after. Joan selflessly took care of Mike for many years in their home, up until his death, to ensure his comfort and to allow countless visitors at any given time. His favorite visitors were his great grandkids.

Mike will always be known for his wit, generosity, supportiveness, and welcoming personality. He frequently said short quips that will keep his children and grandchildren laughing for the rest of their lives. Don't worry grandpa, we will do our best not to get our dobber down!

Mike is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan; daughter, Christine (Joel) Jundt of Pierre, SD, their children, Aaron Jundt, Sarah (Matt) Benne, great grandchildren Ezra, Lane, Reagan; daughter Diane Dittmer of Rapid City, SD, her children Shawna (Jeremy) Delaney, great grandchildren Jeresen, Jayten; Wade (Rylea) Hall, great grandchildren Crewsman, baby girl due in November;  Merissa (Connor) Burchill, great grandson Finnley; son Jim (Jaime) Clemens of Phoenix AZ, their children Tyler (Alexis) Clemens, Ryan (Makenzee) Clemens, Cassie (Jackson) Taylor, great granddaughter Payton; brother Tom (Tracy) Clemens of Sioux Falls, SD; sisters Jane (Larry) Russell of Texas, Sheila (LeRoy) Varilek of Kennebec, SD, Gerri Clemens of California, and Margaret Clemens of Kimball, SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Bob and Pat, and sister Marie.

Celebration of Life will be from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Elks Lodge.

Private burial will be held by the family.