Lonnie Dee Hawthorne

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Lonnie Dee Hawthorne II, who left us on October 26, 2025, at the age of 45. Lonnie was born on January 4, 1980, in Grand Island Nebraska, to Rita Mier and Dennis Hawthorne.

Lonnie grew up in Baltic, South Dakota, where he developed a love for football and rodeo during his teenage years. In 1996, he welcomed his first son, Tyler, with Shiela. His passion for rodeo continued as he pursued the things he loved most in life. Lonnie later met Jamie, and the two became engaged before welcoming their daughter, Brooke-Lynn, in 2001. They married soon after, and their family grew with the arrival of their son, Logan, in 2003. The family settled in Dell Rapids, where Lonnie began building his career as a semi-truck driver. In 2009, their youngest daughter, Sawyer, was born.

Lonnie worked hard throughout his life to establish his own business, Lonnie Hawthorne Trucking. Though Lonnie and Jamie eventually went their separate ways, Lonnie remained dedicated to his career, working hard until he later relocated to Grand Island, Nebraska, where he discovered a new passion for mechanics and met his girlfriend, Trista. Lonnie eventually returned home to South Dakota, where he peacefully lived out the remainder of his days.

Those who knew Lonnie will remember him for his determination, thrill seeking, and perseverance in the face of hardship. Lonnie will be remembered for his desire for adventure and living his life on the edge. He touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed by his friends and family.

Lonnie is survived by his mother, Rita, his siblings, Nathan and Heather, children, Tyler, Brooke-Lynn, Logan, and Sawyer, as well as three grandsons, Brantly, Leighton Dee, and Colt, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Additionally, he is survived by his girlfriend, Trista, her children, Jayden, Jordan, Jace, Kiahna, Keigan, and her grandchildren Kingston and Kyrian.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his father, grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Per his wishes, Lonnie was cremated following his death. The family is hosting a celebration of life on November 8, 2025, from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, at the American Legion in Dell Rapids. The celebration will continue at The Gulch in Garretson, after 5:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to help the family with related expenses are deeply appreciated.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Minnehaha County Sheriffs, Deputy Deberg and Deputy Ricci, Emergency Response Staff, Dell Rapids Avera hospital staff, and the Minnehaha Funeral Home staff for their care and support.

Rest in peace, Lonnie. You will remain in our hearts forever.