Shirley Mae Ladenburger, 94, of Rapid City, SD, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025. She was born on February 6, 1931, in Howard, South Dakota, to Daniel and Erma Yunginger.

Shirley was raised on her family's farm in Howard alongside her beloved sister, Etheldra. She attended local schools and developed the deep-rooted values of hard work, faith, and family that would guide her throughout her life.

On October 9, 1950, she married the love of her life, Eugene William Ladenburger. Together they built a beautiful life centered around their growing family. Shirley was most proud of being a caring and loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Her warmth and dedication to her family were evident in everything she did.

Throughout her life, Shirley held various jobs, including work in a yarn crafting store and in housekeeping. However, her heart was always at home—tending to her garden, caring for her loved ones, and expressing her love through countless hand-knit afghans, hats, and scarves. Many of her handmade creations were lovingly gifted to family members and generously donated to those in need.

Shirley had a special love for flowers and gardening, and her yard was often a testament to her green thumb.  She was a great and joyful cook who loved to host family gatherings.  She specialized in baking bread, rolls, pies and cakes.  Her gentle spirit and giving nature touched the lives of all who knew her.

She is survived by her children: Jeanne Galbraith; Daniel and Sylvia Ladenburger; Michael and Nancy Ladenburger; Craig and Alma Ladenburger; Scott Ladenburger; Chris and Michele Ladenburger; and Doug and Amanda Ladenburger.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Rob and Amanda Galbraith, Kelli Galbraith, Jason Ladenburger and Roseanna Guzman, Amber and Justin Clocksin, Sara and Anthony Sytsma, Stacy Ladenburger and Benjamin Vanden Berg, Jamie and Heather Ladenburger, Audra and Lyle Casteel, Jacquie and Robbie Kubr, Matthew Ladenburger, Justin and Gretchen Ladenburger, Lucas and Emily Ladenburger, Taylor Ladenburger, Hanah Ladenburger, Kaejen Surat, and Memory Surat.

Her great-grandchildren include: Kaira and Paige Galbraith; Theodore and Lynden Ladenburger Vanden Berg; Travis and Josh Ladenburger; Micah, Macey, Ben, William, and Serenity Kubr; and Gracelynn Ladenburger.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene William Ladenburger; her grandson, Zachary Ladenburger; her parents, Daniel and Erma Yunginger; her sister, Etheldra Rasmussen, and brother Reinald Yunginger.

Shirley will be remembered for her quiet strength, her nurturing spirit, and the love she gave so freely to her family and community.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 3:00 to 5:00pm on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  Her funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Sunday, June 1 at the funeral home.  Burial will be held privately at Black Hills National Cemetery.