Bennett Bakley

Bennett Lee Bakley, 74, of Tuthill, SD, died Wednesday, February 8, 2017, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Bennett was born May 27, 1942, in Rushville, Nebraska, to Russell and Ruth (Denison) Bakley. He was raised on the family farm and ranch in Tuthill, where he also attended Tuthill Grade School. He was a graduate of Bennett County High School, with the class of 1961.

Shortly after high school Bennett went to work for his uncle in Huntley, IL. He entered the Army in 1963, and was honorably discharged in 1964. It was while he was working in Huntley, he met his future wife, Jean Seiler and on September 4, 1965 they were married in Huntley. To this union 3 children were born, David, Michael, and Devin. The couple made their home in Tuthill, where they farmed until his death.

He was a man of many talents, including carpentry, mechanics and being able to build anything with a torch and welder. In his younger years, Bennett, enjoyed playing baseball, golfing, fishing, hunting, and bowling. However, his favorite pass time activity was playing cards with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Jean of 51 years; sons David (Karen) Bakley and Michael (Sherry) Bakley of Martin, SD and Devin (Anna) Bakley of Yankton, SD; brothers Dennis Bakley and Alvin (Joan) Bakley of Tuthill, SD, sisters Meredith Bakley of Waterloo, IA, and Charlene (Chuck) Hayes of Omaha, NE, grandchildren Trae Bakley, Shasta Bakley, Jordon (Noelle) Bakley, Tyler Bakley, Chandler Bakley, Erica Bakley, Bryce Bakley and Brooklynn Bakley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Ruth Bakley, grandparents and various aunts and uncles.

A memorial has been established and donations may be sent in care of Bennett County Funeral Service, PO Box 65, Martin, SD 57551.

Previous Events