RAPID CITY- Vernon J. Speck, 87, died Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Vernon was born on September 23, 1931 in Creighton, SD to Edward and Rosina (Walters) Speck. He attended school in Jerauld County. Vernon enlisted into the United States Army on March 10, 1953 and was honorably discharged as Corporal on March 10, 1955.

He married Jessie Mae Buchholz on July 9, 1955 in Mitchell, SD. They made their home in Wessington Springs until 2013 when they moved to Rapid City to be closer to family.

Vernon worked at Winter Service, Warner Motors and retired from Jerauld County Farmers Union after 35 years. Post retirement he worked and drove truck for local area farmers and the SD Soil Conservation.

Hobbies included hunting, several motor sports and spending time on his hobby farm. Most of all he enjoyed time with his grandkids. Vernon will be remembered for always lending a helping hand to hometown friends and family. He was a member of the American Legion.

Vernon was preceded in death by his wife, Jessie; parents; three sisters and five brothers.

He is survived by his son, Jeff (Diane) Speck, Rapid City; daughter, Amy (Rod) Willman, Rapid City; grandchildren: Nicholas Speck, Rachel Speck and Jacob Willman; brother, Herbert Speck; sister, Vera Weber, Wessington Springs; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 on Monday, May 27 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

Services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28 at the funeral home with Chaplain (Ret.) Herb B. Cleveland officiating.

Interment will be at 12:00 noon at Black Hills National Cemetery with full military honors rendered by the Rushmore VFW Post 1273 and the South Dakota Army National Guard.