Mark Boisvert: 1956 – 2024
Memorial service for Mark Boisvert will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at High Plains Community Church with Pastor Dan Knust officiating.
Mark Andrew Boisvert, 68, of Pine Haven, Wyoming, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his devoted family, on November 26, 2024. He was born on October 26, 1956, in Denver, Colorado, to Robert Andrew Boisvert and Joan Helen (Johns) Boisvert. Mark grew up in Colorado and graduated from Laramie Wyoming High School.
His life was a testament to family, love, and hard work. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Joan; his brother, Andy; and his cherished daughter, Christine Boisvert. Mark is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Ginger (Sims) Boisvert, who’s steadfast companionship and love were his foundation. Ginger was his whole world, and their marriage was a testament to unwavering devotion and true partnership. He also leaves behind his beloved daughter, Shannon Boisvert; his treasured siblings: Annette (Bob) Hall, Evette (Don) Shileny, and Robert (Val) Boisvert; and his grandchildren: Jayde Peters, Dyllan Barker, Austin Peters, and Taylor Curtin, who were his greatest pride and joy.
His grandchildren lovingly called him “Kuga,” a name that brought him endless happiness. Mark shared an especially close bond with his siblings, who were lifelong sources of love, laughter, and support. Their relationships were filled with shared memories and a deep sense of connection. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, with whom he shared special moments, leaving behind memories filled with love and joy.
On his wife’s side, Mark also shared meaningful connections with his brothers-in-law, Richard (Ann) Sims, Russ (Lisa) Sims, and Casey (Jennifer) Sims; as well as sisters-in-law Robi (Mark) Spear and Shelly (Brad) Richardson. Mark’s family was the heart of his life, and he took immense pride in the joy they brought him.
He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—his many adventures to Mexico with family and friends, grilling up delicious meals for loved ones, cheering on his beloved Denver Broncos, fishing, hunting, and camping. These moments, often shared with loved ones, highlighted his love for the outdoors, his passion for good food, and his zest for life.
Mark spent much of his career in the coal industry and later retired as a respected supervisor from Wyoming Machinery in Gillette, Wyoming. His strong work ethic and reliability earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout his professional life.
Mark will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, loving brother, and true friend. His kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
Lisa Van Dame: 1975 – 2024
Lisa Marie Ekberg-Van Dame was born in the early hours of March 2, 1975, under brightly shining stars of a cold crisp morning in Gregory, South Dakota. She was the first child of Chad and Nancy. Lisa passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and determination.
Lisa’s life was marked by her dedication to helping others and her adventurous spirit. She excelled in several customer service roles throughout her career, earning the admiration and respect of coworkers and customers alike. Most recently, she was employed at Pathward (formerly MetaBank) as a Quality Assurance Analyst in Sioux Falls. Independent and strong-willed, Lisa embraced new challenges and experiences with enthusiasm. She often reminisced about her time as an over-the-road trucker, proudly hauling treasures from border to border. It was a profession she adored, despite her early driving lessons in the hayfields of Hamill, South Dakota, where she humorously opted to drive into the hay bales rather than around them.
In addition to her professional achievements, Lisa found great joy in her community work. She was a passionate volunteer with SiouxperCon, a role that brought her immense fulfillment and allowed her to connect with others who shared her interests. She approached every aspect of her life—whether professional, personal, or volunteer work—with warmth, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Lisa’s proudest accomplishments were her sons, Gabriel Lee and Nathan Michael, who brought her boundless joy, pride, and love. She cherished every moment with them and celebrated their successes as her greatest triumphs.
Lisa is survived by her sons, Gabriel and Nathan; their father, Bruce Van Dame; her parents, Darrel and Nancy Presuhn of Madison, South Dakota, and Chad and Suzi Ekberg of Gillette, Wyoming; and her siblings: Amy (Doug) Buitenbos and their sons Samuel, Benjamin, and Joseph; Daniel Ekberg; and Kim Ingber. She is also survived by her step-siblings, Stephanie (Jason) Terwilliger and their children Cassidy, Harris, Autumn, and Charlotte; Mike (Leanne) Torsney and family; James (Jennifer) Torsney and family; and Sarah (Bill) Hewes and family; as well as her aunts, uncles, cousins, and cherished friends, Randi Ayers, Ruth Hamann, and Larayna Honea.
Lisa was preceded in death by her grandparents, Albin and Laurene Ekberg and Bill and Louise Lydic; brother-in-law, Jason Ingber; and sisters-in-law, Jeannie Ramirez and Cricket Corbin.
Lisa’s strength, humor, and boundless love for her family and friends will forever be remembered. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, compassion, and an indomitable spirit that touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
A visitation with family present will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2024 from 5 to 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls. A Celebration of Lisa’s Life will begin at 2 p.m., Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Madison SD. A livestream of Lisa’s service can be found at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83529393944.
Vance L. Koerner: 1949 – 2024
Vance L. Koerner, brother and friend, passed away on November 26, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on June 2, 1949, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Vance spent much of his life in Gillette, Wyoming, where he made countless memories and lifelong friendships.
Raised in Casper, Wyoming, Vance was a graduate of Kelly Walsh High School. He came to Gillette in the early seventies, bought a house and has lived in that same house since.
Vance began working in the oilfield on the workover rigs. Known as a hard worker, he started in the coal mines at Black Thunder followed by many years at NARM Coal Mine until his retirement. Vance’s dedication to his work was only matched by his love for adventure; he embraced a life of sobriety over 20 years ago and never looked back.
A true “man’s man,” Vance had a love for riding and all things in the Harley world. He journeyed on his bike with friends across all 48 states making memories along the way. His garage was a gathering spot for friends, filled with laughter, bike repairs, and stories from the road. Vance was also a huge fan of drag racing, often introducing friends to their very first NHRA event-a thrill he loved to share.
Vance leaves behind his brothers, Thomas and Al, who will remember the endless laughter and camaraderie the three shared. He also leaves his loyal companion, his dog Louis, affectionately known as Lewie.
Rest in peace, Vance. “Ride on.” You will be missed but never forgotten.
No services are scheduled at this time. Vance will be interred in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery, Gillette.
Christine Mary Michaels: 1955 – 2024
Christine Michaels, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2024 at the age of 69. She was surrounded by her family, who were the center of her life and the source of her greatest joy.
Born on July 5, 1955, Christine was a woman of great warmth, generosity, and devotion. She was a nurturing presence who always made others feel welcome, whether at the kitchen table or with her neighbors who became family as they gardened together. Her home was a place where love was served in abundance, often in the form of her delicious homemade meals that became cherished family traditions. Christine had a gift for cooking, and her meals brought people together, creating memories that will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to sit at her table.
In addition to her culinary talents, Christine found immense joy in tending to her garden, where she grew everything from vibrant flowers to fresh vegetables. She took pride in the simple beauty of nature and found peace in the rhythm of planting and nurturing life.
Christine’s family meant everything to her, and she poured her heart into every relationship. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she created a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering support. Her family will forever carry her memory in their hearts, remembering the countless ways she showed them what it meant to love unconditionally.
Christine is survived by her daughter, Tianna (George) Stilson; her granddaughter, Mercedes; and her husband, Kelvin Kirksey II, along with their son Kelvin Kirksey III; her grandson, George Stilson Jr. and his fiancee, Baylee Rohde; her dear siblings: Maxine Boursaw, Mary Ann Hurkmans, and her brothers, Will Langrick, Duane Boursaw, and Max Boursaw. She is preceded in death by her parents, Carl Lueneberg and Catherine R. Michaels; and her sister, Gerilynn Benson.
A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at a later date, in Escanaba, Michigan where her ashes will be spread.
Christine’s love, warmth, and legacy will never be forgotten. She has left an indelible mark on the hearts of her loved ones, and she will be deeply missed.
