Richard Lee Durnil

BOX ELDER - Richard Lee Durnil, 70, Box Elder, died Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2006, at his residence. Richard was born July 29, 1936, to Harold and Merle (Ellerton) Durnil in Wessington Springs, SD. He attended school in Wessington Springs. Richard spent his youth on Thunder Butte Creek with his Uncle Claude Foster and they moved to California where he attended numerous schools. He owned and operated a welding business in the Lancaster, CA area. In 1996 Richard returned to Rapid City to care for his mother and has been here since. He was past president of the Box Elder Senior Citizens; a member of the Darton Geological Society, Black Hills Mineral Society, Journey Museum, Gold Prospector Assoc. of America and Coin Club. He was a former member of the Moose Club, a past member of the Black Hills Single Friends and sailing club. He loved to travel and loved the Black Hills. Richard is survived by his soul mate of 15 years, Ella Smith, Box Elder; her 4 children and 8 grandchildren; his Uncle Everett and wife Lorraine Ellerton, Highmore, SD; his aunt Margaret Durnil, Philip, SD; 2 nieces; nephews in California; numerous cousins and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his mother and father and 1 sister Beverlee Watters. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, Aug. 28, 2006, at Behrens-Wilson Funeral Home. Visitation will be 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, August 27, 2006, at the funeral home. Condolences may be conveyed to the family at www.behrenswilson.com.