Curtis John Hillerud

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Curtis Hillerud, age 54, passed away peacefully late Saturday evening, August 30th, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 9th, 2025, at Grace Point Wesleyan Church in Brookings, South Dakota. Memorial visitation will take place from 5:00–7:00 PM on Monday, September 8th, 2025, at Rude's Funeral Home.

Curt was born on July 7th, 1971, in Brookings, South Dakota, to Henry and Betty Hillerud. He attended school in Volga and graduated from Sioux Valley High School in 1989.

Curt was known for his honesty, humor, and big heart. He was blunt and truthful, yet deeply compassionate and loving. His observations often sparked laughter, and his presence could light up a room. Curt had a gift for making people feel at ease while fiercely protecting those he cared about. His personality was magnetic, and conversations with him were always memorable.

A gifted athlete, Curts talents helped lead the Sioux Valley Cossacks to a State Football Championship in 1988, Curt was honored by earning the Joe Robbie MVP Award. He was recognized as an All-State Football and Basketball player and was considered one of the finest athletes in Sioux Valley history. He was featured on the cover of Hansen & Anderson Basketball Magazine and nominated for Mr. Basketball. His passion for sports endured throughout his life, especially for the Phillies, Redskins, Timberwolves and Lakers.

Curtis worked in various roles, but found his calling in the food service industry. He was especially proud of his time cooking breakfast at Cook's Kitchen and sharing his outgoing personality at the SDSU Student Union. Outside of work, Curt cherished time, and many rides to the park, with his beloved dog, Chip, who was the joy of his life. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing cards, watching movies, and simply being present with those he loved. One of the highlights of his life was a special trip to Iceland with friends in September 2024, where he embraced breath taking landscape and created unforgettable memories.

Whatever Curits was doing, he made time to stop and help others. He was selfless and humble and never saw his many talents as a point of pride. This same humility ground him in his spiritual life and led to his baptism at Grace Point Wesleyan Church and public profession of faith. His testimony encouraged other to trust in the Lord, and his honestly and thankfulness for prayer from his church community gave him hope and courage in his battle to fight cancer over several long years. Curits was lovingly supported by his mother, siblings, nieces and nephews, extended family and friends, and various medical caretaker through this difficult journey.

Curtis is survived by his mother, Betty (Schoon) Hillerud; sisters Virginia (Ron Flute) and Deb (Greg Rud); many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and his cherished dog, Chip.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Hillerud; brother, Randy Hillerud; and his special dog, Emma.