Dorothy Helen Rogness

Dorothy Helen Rogness, age 96, formerly of Renner, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Washington Crossing in Sioux Falls. Dorothy was born in Lyons, SD on June 14, 1929. While she was growing up, her parents instilled in her a deep faith and service to others. She graduated from Lyons High School and worked at Reetz Photography in Sioux Falls. Determined to never marry a farmer, she met Duane Rogness on a blind date who informed her all he wanted to do was farm. She, and her children, are thankful she never looked back. She and Duane were married on May 29, 1954. Shortly after their marriage they moved to a farm near Renner where they raised their family. Dorothy worked on the farm and cleaned homes for others to assist financially, while befriending and supporting her neighbors and expanded community. They lived on the farm for over 60 years until Duane passed away in January 2018.

Dorothy was an accomplished singer and sang for many weddings, funerals and special events over the years. She loved music and joyously shared her talent. She was a woman with a strong faith, and dedicated much of her life in service to Benton Lutheran Church, which was established by her grandfather and his brother, by making pies with the ladies, teaching Sunday school, leading music, serving on various boards and continually supporting the church's mission. Following in her father's footsteps she served as president and other roles on the board of Bethany Lutheran Home, continuing compassionate and quality care for the elderly. In September, Dorothy was honored to receive the inaugural Legacy Award from Bethany Home Foundation. Dorothy was also an advocate for farming and farmers and participated in Farm Bureau, Extension Club and other farming organizations. She loved her family dearly and told them that often. She was also the proud godparent of seven. Her direct message to her godchildren is, "Even though I haven't been in close contact, you've always been in my prayers." She believed strongly in prayer and had a long list of people she prayed for every night.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Susan (Arnie) Martens of Sioux Falls, David (Dixie) Rogness of Lyons, Carrie Rogness (Mark Sibley) of Rochester, MN and son-in-law Brian Peterson, New Salem, ND. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Orville Lonneman, her sister-in-law, Carol Blaisdell, her brother-in-law, Allen Rogness, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her "much-loved godchildren" Jim Sandberg, Genell Sandberg, Wade Davis, Dan Anderson, Corey Blaisdell, and Reed Froseth. Dorothy also leaves behind a lifetime of wonderful memories and stories for her family to share.

She was preceded in death by her husband Duane, daughter Diane, brothers Charles, Leonard, and baby Lawrence Sandberg, sisters-in-law Elaine Lonneman and Rose Sandberg, and nephew/godchild Keith Sandberg.

"A family is a circle of love, not broken by a loss, but made stronger by the memories. We are forever blessed that God connected us to you."

"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"

Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 9, 2026 at Benton Lutheran Church, rural Crooks. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 8, at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Benton Lutheran Church or the Bethany Home Foundation.