Richard James Abild

Richard James “Dick” Abild, age 82, passed away unexpectedly on July 28, 2025, at Vermillion Sanford Hospital in South Dakota.

Born on May 4, 1943, in Yankton, South Dakota, Dick was the son of Inman and Ida (Stalheim) Abild. He grew up in a close-knit community and began his education at Wakonda Elementary School before attending Vermillion Junior High and graduating from Vermillion High School with the Class of 1961. A lifelong learner with a passion for education, Dick earned his Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of South Dakota in 1966 and went on to complete a master’s degree in Secondary Education from USD in 1971.

Dick began his professional career teaching government and social studies in Niobrara, Nebraska, and Clear Lake, Iowa. In 1975, he transitioned into a new chapter when he moved to Yankton, South Dakota, to work as an agent for State Farm Insurance. Over the course of his long tenure with State Farm until his retirement in 2012, Dick earned numerous awards and recognitions for his dedication and excellence in service.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dick proudly served his country as a member of the Army National Guard from 1960 to 1966. He also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout during high school—an early testament to his commitment and leadership.

On a personal level, Dick was a devoted husband to Sally (Hanson) Abild for 58 years. Together they raised three children: Rich (Denise) Abild, Sioux Falls, Lori (Ben) Brunick, Yankton, and Ida Abild, Vermillion. His grandchildren—Rylend, Conner, Brycen Brunick; Evan Abild; and Evy Abild—were the lights of his life. He cherished every moment spent with them and especially loved their time together at the family cabin in the Black Hills.

Faith played an important role throughout Dick’s life. He was baptized at Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church and confirmed at Vermillion Trinity Lutheran Church. Later, he attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Yankton before returning as an active member of Vermillion Trinity Lutheran Church until his passing.

Dick was deeply involved in his community. He was an active member of the Elks Lodge, Wakonda American Legion, Eagles Club and participated enthusiastically in the Clay County Republican Party. One of his greatest passions was preserving the historic 1869 Abild Homestead Farm—a legacy that connected him to generations past while inspiring future ones.

He is preceded in death by his parents Inman and Ida Abild; and by his brother Rudolph “Rudy” Abild.

Those who knew Dick will remember him as a hardworking man with a quick wit, unwavering dedication to family, and countless lifelong friendships that enriched every stage of his life.

Memorials may be directed to the Clay County Historical Society or the Yankton County Historical Society in honor of Richard’s enduring love for local history.

May Richard’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. A Visitation will be held on August 1, 2025, from 05:00 PM to 07:00 PM at Vermillion Trinity Lutheran Church. A Funeral will be held on August 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Church with Burial to follow in the Bluffview Cemetery. Livestreaming will be through the Trinity Lutheran Facebook Page.