Merlin Jay "Mike" Hiemstra

Merlin "Mike" Hiemstra, 71, of rural Letcher, SD, passed away surrounded by family Monday, September 15, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. A Celebration of Life will be Monday, September 22, from 5-7:00 PM at Bittner Funeral Chapel with a 6:30 PM prayer service. Private burial will be at Trinity Cemetery in rural Letcher, at a later date. Merlin "Mike" Jay Hiemstra was born on June 19, 1954, in Mitchell, SD, to Orlo and Keith (Lehner) Hiemstra. He grew up in the Mitchell and Letcher area and graduated from Mitchell High School. On April 24, 1981, he married Kim (Green) Hiemstra, and together they raised two children, Serina and Neal. Mike farmed for over 30+ years in rural Letcher before moving to Seffner, Florida, where he spent 20 years working hard and making new friendships. While in Florida, he worked on the Tree Crew at Busch Gardens and later, after retirement, tended lawns and blueberry plants for Wish Farms. He recently returned to his roots in rural Letcher. A proud father and grandpa, Mike's greatest joy was his family. He was known for his giving heart-if he had two dollars, he'd gladly give you a dollar-fifty. He loved being outdoors, tinkering with farm or lawn equipment, lending a helping hand to neighbors, and keeping up with the latest farming news. Even during hospital stays, he never stopped asking about his grandchildren or how the crops and hay were doing. Mike had a playful spirit, always ready with a tease or a joke to bring a smile. Growing up, he was active in his local 4-H club, a tradition that ran deep in his family. Mike is survived by his children, Serina (Adam) Nuese of Brandon, SD, and Neal (Karisa) Hiemstra of Woonsocket, SD; his grandchildren, Kapri Hiemstra, Hasten Hiemstra, Shay Nuese, and Quinn Nuese; his siblings, Delbert (DeAnna) Hiemstra of Nampa, Idaho, Norma Tuttle of Mitchell, SD, Beverly (Rodney) Spelbring of Gillette, WY, Darla Kjelden of Sioux Falls, SD, Dennis (Vickie) Hiemstra of Mitchell, SD, and Bryant Hiemstra of rural Woonsocket, SD; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orlo and Keith Hiemstra and his brother-in-law, Rodney Tuttle. Mike will be remembered for his generosity, his humor, and his deep love for family and farming.