Kermit Leland Bortnem

Kermit Leland Bortnem, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, in Scottsdale, Arizona, after suffering a stroke. He was 77 years old. A Memorial Service to celebrate Kermit's life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:30 AM at First Lutheran Church in Brookings, SD. Memorial Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Friday, July 18, 2025 at Rude's Funeral Home.
Kermit Leland Bortnem was born on July 22, 1947, in Brookings, South Dakota, Kermit was the second-born son of Lyle W. and Ruby E. (Berge) Bortnem-arriving just moments after his twin brother, Keith. Growing up in a close-knit family, Kermit learned early the value of hard work, music, and togetherness. He attended Brookings High School and went on to study Sociology at South Dakota State University, where he was just one credit shy of graduating before answering the call to serve in the Army National Guard.
During his high school and college years, Kermit, his brothers, and friends formed a band, Outsiders, blending their musical talents and creating lasting memories through their shared love of music. Beyond music, Kermit had a natural talent for building-his hands could craft almost anything, and his passion for creating things endured throughout his life and in his children's homes.
Kermit's many talents opened the door to a variety of career opportunities over the years. He began his professional journey as a guitar teacher, sharing his passion for music with others. He later worked at SIC, Savings and Loan, Barrett's/Slumberland, and ABS-where he had the pleasure of working alongside his twin brother, Keith for over a decade. Kermit approached each role with dedication, creativity, and a warm presence that left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.
In 1966, Kermit met the love of his life, Penny Lee McLagan. They married on June 21, 1969, beginning a beautiful journey of love and partnership that lasted 56 wonderful years. Together they had four children: Shelly Marie, twins Tammi Lynn and Tonya Lee, and Robert Lyle. Though their daughter Tonya Lee was stillborn on July 7, 1975, her memory remained forever cherished in Kermit's heart.
Kermit's family was his world. A proud and devoted father and grandfather, he found immense joy in every moment shared with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife Penny; daughter Shelly (Randy) Jensen and their children, Bailie and Cody; daughter Tammi (Darin) Schleicher and their children Ally and Emily; son Rob (Jennifer) Bortnem and their children, Addy and Ava. Each one brought light to his life and was his pride and joy.
He is also survived by his brothers Keith (Debbie) Bortnem and Gordie (Sharon) Bortnem; brother-in-law Randy (Teresa) McLagan; eight nephews; and his loyal four-legged companion, Charlie, who rarely left his side.
Kermit will be remembered for his generous spirit, steadfast love for his family and animals, humor, and the way he made everyone in his presence feel like they mattered. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched with kindness, strength, and sincerity.
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