Patrick "PJ" James Stoner

Patrick "PJ" James Stoner (54) was born February 15, 1970 in Minnesota, and passed away Thursday, December 5, 2024, at his home near Canton, SD.

He is the son of Betty and Noel Stoner. PJ graduated from Lincoln High School in 1988. On June 15, 2019, he was united in marriage to Laurie Kjergaard-Stoner, who he loved wholeheartedly. Some of his favorite adventures together included going to the track, concerts, camping, hanging with friends and family, and spending time together at home with their fur babies.

At the age of 15, PJ began playing drums and music became a lifelong passion. The range of bands he was a part of went from marching band in high school, where he once marched in the Macy's day parade in New York City, to a traveling band that toured the country. From country bars to honky tonks, nothing made him happier than playing in a band with longtime family friend Gary Wilson. 

Along with playing drums, PJ had a love for racing. He participated in almost every aspect of the sport. From pushing sprint cars off the track, flagging to having several of his own cars that he drove around area tracks. 

PJ absolutely loved being Dad to his two daughters and had a special connection with both of them.  In 2017, he was promoted to “Grandpa Stoner” and some of his best times were spent putting a smile on the grandkids faces or doing something silly just to hear their laughs. He always made sure to show up and celebrate every birthday, holiday & important event for them.

PJ was always there to lend a helpful hand to anyone in need and made many friends along the way. His friends and family will remember him always having a smile & for making everyone around him laugh.

Grateful to have shared in his life are his Wife, Laurie Kjergaard-Stoner; Daughters, Ashlee (Austin) Teague and Kilee Stoner; Sister, Shannon (Wayne) Paetow and Brother, Chuck (Sheri) Stoner. His four grandchildren: Oliver (7), Stetten (5), Atlas (2 months) and Charlotte (due 2025);Nieces, Miranda Stuckey and Laylanni Welch; Nephews, Jordan Olson, Christian Stoner, Kyle (Mattayah) Paetow and Kole (Laura) Paetow. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Betty & Noel Stoner; his sister, Stacy Stoner; Four Brother-in-laws, Brian Kjergaard, Bob Kjergaard, Harley Kjergaard and Jerry Kjergaard; Uncles Doug Stoner & Merle Powell; Aunt Connie Powell and Nieces, Kayla Paetow and Kaydence Johnson.

A Visitation will be 1-3 PM, with the Funeral Service starting at 3 PM, Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Heritage Funeral Home.