Rachel Klippenstein

Rachel Klippenstein, 83, of Hot Springs, SD, passed away peacefully October 4, 2025. Born June 27, 1942, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Margaret and Murray Carr, Rachel's life was a testament to determination, love and the pursuit of a dream.

From an early age, Rachel longed to live and work on a ranch – to trade city streets for open skies and rolling pastures. That dream came closer to reality when she met the love of her life, Marc Klippenstein, while attending a private high school in Bryn Athyn, PA. Marc's family operated a ranch less than a mile from the school. Rachel and Marc shared a vision of a life connected to the land. They married at age 20 and soon began building a life centered around family, ranching and shared purpose.

Together, Rachel and Marc raised two sons, Darryl and Todd and cultivated not only a thriving ranch but also a legacy of perseverance, integrity and devotion.

Rachel was also a gifted writer. She captured the adventures and experiences she shared with her husband and children in her two books – Path of Colored Leaves and Do You, Rachel, Take Ranching for Better and for Worse – offering readers a heartfelt glimpse into the joys, challenged and laughter of family life on the ranch.

Known for her warmth and generosity, Rachel enjoyed helping others and offering guidance, touching countless lives with her kindness, wisdom and unwavering support.

She is survived by her husband, Marc; her sons, Darryl (Tammy) and Todd (Tatiana); her brothers, Murray (Dianne), Jeff (Marry) and David (Hermeen); three grandchildren and six great grandchildren and many relatives and friends who cherished her deeply.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Mueller Center Annex in Hot Springs, SD, with a reception to follow from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs, SD.