RAPID CITY, SD—Word of the death of former Rapid City Mayor Don Barnett reached City Hall mid-day Thursday.
Mayor Jason Salamun expressed the following sentiments:
“In the face of unimaginable tragedy, former Mayor Don Barnett rose to the occasion during Rapid City’s most difficult days. He guided the city through the devastating 1972 flood with a steady hand and a determination to see better days. His bold decisions – including not to rebuild on floodplains but to reclaim and revitalize the community – transformed heartbreak into enduring strength, proving that true leadership rises when the waters fall.
“Our condolences to his family, friends, and all who loved him. May God be with you all.”
Mayor Barnett served as mayor from 1971 to 1975. At age 28, he was the youngest person to be elected mayor of Rapid City. He took a leave from his post as executive of the South Dakota Consumer’s League to run for mayor.
A Vietnam War veteran, Don took the reins and provided steadfast leadership as well as serving as a source of comfort and resilience for Rapid City citizens during the early years of flood recovery. He helped spearhead the efforts to build the Civic Center, which had been approved by city voters just weeks prior to the flood.
In the aftermath of the flood, Don and the City Councils were instrumental in transforming the flood’s course of destruction into a beautiful greenway filled with parks, playgrounds and pathways.
The Monument’s Fieldhouse is aptly named in honor of Don and his leadership and service to the citizens of Rapid City.
Mayor Salamun said Barnett was a consummate gentleman, a proud veteran, and always a cheerleader for Rapid City and its people. Until a few years ago, Barnett made numerous trips from his home in Littleton, Colorado to Rapid City. He made numerous appearances, presenting and commenting on the community’s flood experience and recovery as well as his experiences as Rapid City’s mayor.
Among his appearances in Rapid City in recent years, he participated in the groundbreaking for the new Summit Arena in November 2019 and the ribbon-cutting of the new facility in October 2021, and also presided over various events during the 50th anniversary observance of the flood in June 2022.
