Les Horsley, age 69, of White River, South Dakota, died on Thursday, November 28, 2024 at the Maryhouse in Pierre.
A celebration of life service will be held 11:00 a.m. CST Thursday, December 5, at the Draper Auditorium.
Private graveside services will be held at the Draper Cemetery at a later date.
Leslie Wayne “Les” Horsley was born May 15, 1955, in Pierre, South Dakota, the youngest of six children born to Max and Bertha (Smith) Horsley. He grew up in Draper where he attended school, graduating in 1974. After high school, he loaded up everything he had and headed to Jacksonville, Florida, to explore new country. He worked in the shipyards for about six months before returning home. He commented “it was the best feeling he ever had” coming back home. He later moved to Gillette where he worked at NAPA and also in the oil fields. After eight years, he returned to Draper to help on the family farm, with his brother Curt, brother-in-law Gene, and father Max.
Les married Cathy Iwan on May 26, 1985, at the home of Roland and Jean Iwan in White River, with Jean Iwan officiating. To this union three children were born: Ryan, Tryston, and Shelby. Shortly after their marriage, they purchased a farm-ranch 17 miles northeast of White River, where they made their home. Les acquired cattle for the first time at that time, and began the ranching side of the farm-ranch. His one wish was that he never had to retire, but after many years, his body made that decision for him.
In 2008, Les became partners with childhood friend Scott Dowling, farming many acres from Draper to the legendary Diamond Ring Farm north of Midland. In the five years he gained the knowledge and experience of no-till farming.
Les enjoyed drag-racing at the Oahe Speedway, and Baja racing in his younger years. He enjoyed working on cars and liked old school fast cars.
Remaining to cherish Les’ memory are his wife Cathy; children Ryan Horsley (Skyler Green), Tryston Horlsey, and Shelby Horsley (Hunter Iversen); grandchildren Xavier, Luke, Sutton, Emma, Hollzee, Landi, and Wesley; one brother Curt (Kate) Horsley of Draper; two sisters Marcia (Tom) Authier of Vivian and Nancy Tennant of Gettysburg; his mother and father-in-law Jean and Roland Iwan; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Les was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters Carol Cressy and Colleen Anna; nephew Monty Horsley; and three brothers-in-law Bob Tennant, Bob Anna, and Gene Cressy.
Les’s hard work, life lessons, and love for his family will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished.
Arrangements are with Rush Funeral Home of Philip.
