Jerry Allen Witcraft passed away on May 5, 2025 at Monument Health in Sturgis, SD, surrounded by his sons, grandchildren, and friends.
He was born on July 17, 1939, in a railroad boxcar in Lehr, North Dakota, to William and Anna (Klauss) Witcraft. The family lived there until Jerry was three years old, after which they relocated to Lead, SD, when William accepted a job at Homestake. Jerry spent his formative years in Lead and graduated from Lead High School in 1958.
A few years later he met Margaret Mary Slack at the Inferno Bar and swept her off her feet. They were married on July 30, 1960. They chose to live in Lead for many years before making their home in Sturgis, SD in 1973.
His work experience began at 14 years old with Homestake Mining Company as a pinsetter and lifeguard, and eventually spent 37 of his 38 years there working in the assay office, where he worked until his retirement. Following his retirement, and to keep busy, he found work as the early-morning gas station attendant for many different stations around Sturgis. Most recently at Kwik Mart where he was the favorite employee and beloved by all who stopped by. In his free time, he enjoyed frequent trips to Deadwood, always hoping to take home more money than he brought, golfing, bowling, and going for Chinese food with anyone who would go with him. While watching each grandchild and great grandchild at every game they played.
Jerry is survived by his sister Carol (Bill) Horstman, Eden Prairie, MN; three sons Steve (Dawn) Witcraft of Saint James, MN; John (Helen) Witcraft of Rapid City, SD; and Paul Witcraft of Sturgis, SD; niece Lori Horstman of Richfield, MN. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret Mary Witcraft; his parents, William and Anna Witcraft; his brothers, Earl and Roger Witcraft; his nephew James Fahrni; his lifelong friend, Gene Burr; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Visitation will be held on Saturday May 10th, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel, where family and friends are welcome to come together to share stories, offer support, and remember Jerry’s life. Burial will take place at 1:00 on Sunday, May 25th, at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Deadwood, SD.
The family would like to send a special thank you to Sallie, Dee, and Nicky for helping to keep him in line in the last few years.
