Roland “Shorty” Sailer, 93, passed away February 23, 2025, in Rapid City.
Shorty was born on June 17th, 1931, in Hazen, North Dakota, to George H. Sailer and Martha (Pempeit) Sailer. He spent his childhood working on his father’s farm and other neighboring farms, where he learned the values of hard work and responsibility. Being one of nine brothers, they formed their own baseball team which led to a love of sports.
Shorty started his career as a cement finisher with Stanley Johnson Concrete Company and was later promoted to foreman. He was proud of his work on the Gavin’s Point Dam, the Garrison Dam, and various other large concrete projects, such as missile sights and concrete silos.
After attending South Dakota Barber College in Sioux Falls, he opened “Shorty’s Barbershop” in North Rapid. Once Shorty added an arcade, the barbershop became a popular hangout within the community.
Shorty and Joyce’s journey together began when they were introduced by his boss, who happened to be Joyce’s uncle. Their connection blossomed quickly, and after just three weeks of courtship, Shorty asked for Joyce’s hand in marriage. On December 30,1954, they exchanged vows in Peever, South Dakota, marking the start of 70 years of marriage.
Shorty was a faithful member of Atonement Lutheran Church for more than 50 years. He served on the church council, sang in the choir, and ushered during services. In addition to building and installing the steeple with his son, George, he played a crucial role in the installation of the church bell.
Shorty was an avid bowler and pool player. He had a great passion for music and enjoyed entertaining guests by playing his harmonica.
Shorty is survived by his wife, Joyce (Canfield) Sailer; his children, Sandra Feickert, Shari Pappert, and George Sailer (Deb Mayo); grandchildren: Ryan Feickert, Rick Pappert (Katie), Traci Sailer, Kyla Feickert (Matt Jones), Corey Feickert (Amanda), Ceclie Sailer (Eric Bear), and Elizabeth Hardman (Mark Odle); great-grandchildren: Jazmynn Allen (Joe War Bonnett), Amarion Sailer, Junior Allen, Luke Pappert, Adalind Feickert, Avery Feickert, Mackenna Pappert, Coralee Feickert and Landen Green; Great-great-grandchildren: Kassian and KaVaughn Allen.
Shorty was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Walter, Lawrence, Gerhard, Velma, Veona, Vernon, Arnold, Martin, Leila, Gerald, Delbert and 2 infant sisters; son-in-law, Jim Pappert and grandchild, Joel Sailer.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am, Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Atonement Lutheran Church in Rapid City.
You may sign his online guestbook at www.blackhillsfuneralhome.com.
