Jane Kuper Obituary
Jane T. Kuper, of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, passed away on February 16th, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her family.
Jane was born on January 8, 1949, to George and Helen Thoma in Urbana, IL. Because of her father's work, her family moved often during her childhood. Eventually, Jane settled in South Dakota, where she met and married her husband, Dan Kuper. Together, they made their home in Dell Rapids and raised their family there. Jane valued education and dedicated much of her professional life to higher education. She served as Vice President of Human Resources at Augustana University, where she was respected for her leadership, integrity, and the trust she built with those she worked alongside.
Above all else, Jane was an exceptional mother and grandma. Her family was the center of her life and her greatest source of pride. She loved her grandchildren immensely and was often found reading to them, sharing stories, and creating moments they will carry with them forever.
Jane was thoughtful, deeply caring, and someone people trusted. She listened well, offered steady guidance, and showed her love through her presence and consistency. Her quick wit and humor brought warmth and laughter to everyday moments.
She is survived by her husband, Dan Kuper; her children, Walter Wright III (Irlene) of Denver, CO; Kathryn Hendrickson (Mike) of Dell Rapids, SD; Jennifer Mason (Adam) of Dell Rapids, SD; and her grandchildren, Zoey and Harper Hendrickson, Nolan and Cole Mason, Morgan Anderson, Monica Giddings, and Will Gilbert. She is also survived by her siblings, George Thoma (Margie), Ann King (Dennis), and Sue Thoma.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Helen Thoma and grandson, Ty Mason.
Our family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Avera Home Hospice Care - especially Roxy and Patty for the compassionate care provided. Their kindness, patience and support of
our mom and our family was unmatched.
Mom will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her kindness, her humor, and being the best mom, grandma and wife.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jane Kuper, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Morgan Lusby
February 19, 2026
I am deeply saddened upon hearing of the passing of Jane. We were high school classmates at CHS where she was cheerleader supreme for our Dragons basketball team. I came to know her whole family quite well as her sister Sue and I dated. Jane was such a wonderful, caring and giving person. So out-going, never afraid to do anything and full of boundless energy. Jane transferred to Salisbury State University where I was also attending. I have so many memories of her and her love of life. My sincere condolences to Jane's entire family, especially Sue, Ann and George.
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Deborah Nickerson
February 18, 2026
Thoughts and prayers are with Jane's family. I graduated with Jane in Chestertown, MD, Class of 1967! I have many good memories of Jane in our high school days!
Crystal Baily
February 18, 2026
Dan, family and friends, so sorry for such a great loss. You´re in our thoughts and prayers. Crystal and Rob Baily
Nancy Dickinson
February 18, 2026
Dear Kuper family,
My sincere condolences on your great loss. Jane was a true Augie Viking in all her various responsibilites in HR. Respectfully, Nancy Dickinson , Engl. dept. retiree
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Debra Koman
February 17, 2026
Jane was my dearest friend and we considered ourselves sisters. I cannot imagine a world without her . She was always level headed, calm and collected and could handle any situation that came up with professionalism, grace and smarts , and that in addition to her quick wit made her an invaluable executive. It also made her a fantastic mother and great friend. In addition, she was hilariously funny and up for any pranks and fun we could dream up (and we definitely dreamed them up) !!! So grateful that our paths crossed and that we made so many memories.
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