Lon Arlo Roettele, a cherished husband, father, step-father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the age of 79. He was born on November 28, 1945, to Maurice and Audrey Roettele.

Lonnie, as he was affectionately known, lived a life defined by success, deep love, and a passion for his many pursuits. He was loved by many for his sharp wit and, most famously, his incredible memory, which allowed him to share detailed and captivating stories from his past with anyone who would listen. He leaves behind his loving wife, Joyce Roettele, who was his devoted partner in many adventures.

Lonnie’s greatest joy was his family. He was a loving father to Ryan (Lisa) and Rodney Roettele, and a supportive Stepdad to Jennifer (Bill) and Joey. He took immense pride in his grandson, Aidan (Emma), and his step-grandchildren: Amanda (Ashley), Jacqueline (Alex), Samantha (Adam), Kaitlyn, Jeffrey, and Kayla. His legacy also includes many beloved "little butts" step-great-grandchildren, who brought him great happiness. Lonnie is survived by his two brothers, Randy (Karen) and Mark (Lottie).

Lonnie and Joyce shared their beautiful home with their beloved Collies, whom he lovingly called JaBaba: Luke, Jake, and most recently, Storm. This devoted companionship ended recently with the passing of Storm on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, just days before Lonnie's own passing. We take comfort knowing that Lonnie is now reunited with his beloved pets and family.

Lonnie pursued his interests with dedication and skill. Lonnie and Joyce loved opening their large, beautiful home for family gatherings, especially during the holidays, creating lasting memories for everyone.

He loved traveling with Joyce in their motorhome and feeling the freedom of the road on his beloved Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Lonnie was a dedicated member of a remote control plane club and owned an impressive collection of many planes. Lonnie and Joyce also spent several years in Wisconsin enjoying a train club where he painstakingly designed his impressive 1/16 scale Burlington Northern train.

Lonnie was born and raised in Southern California before retiring and moving to Columbia, South Dakota, in 2001, the ancestral area of many Roettele generations. There, he and Joyce owned property where they ran a horse boarding business, connecting them to the quiet beauty of the land.

In 2008, they decided to move to Western South Dakota to be closer to Joyce's sister, Sharon (Steve). It was here they purchased an absolutely beautiful home and horse property, creating a wonderful life in their final years together.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Audrey; his first beautiful wife, Donna; his brother, Gary; his nephew, Todd and his beloved Collies.

The family is planning a private graveside service and a Celebration of Life at a later date to allow family and friends to gather and honor his memory. Details regarding the dates and times for these services will be shared once they have been finalized.