Richard Lelm

Richard D. Lelm, 83, of Groton, SD, formerly Lidgerwood, ND, was called to be with his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Sanford Medical Center, Aberdeen, due to Covid complications.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with plans for interment at Holy Cross Cemetery, Lidgerwood, ND.

Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary and Crematory, 414 5th Avenue NW, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.schriversmemorial.com.

Richard Darrel Lelm was born on April 15, 1941, in Hankinson, ND, to Reuben and Emily (Pokorny) Lelm. The oldest of three boys, he grew up on a farm near Wyndmere, ND. Richard was baptized and confirmed at Peace Lutheran Church in Barney, ND.

He enlisted and served in the US Army in 1960-62 and the US Navy from 1965-66. With these services, Richard received a National Defense Service Medal.

In his younger years, Richard often worked as a painter and handyman, and he also enjoyed traveling. He cherished spending time with his family and was often found listening to the radio or Christian podcasts, reading and sharing the words of the Bible, and watching the news and weather.

Richard resided in many areas throughout the years and spent most of his adult years in North Dakota, Arizona, and Arkansas. In the last several years, Richard resided in Lidgerwood, ND, where his brother Ron also resided. In April 2024, Richard moved to Avantara Nursing Home in Groton, SD, to be with his brother Ron.

Richard enjoyed all the activities and excellent staff at the nursing home and was truly blessed to have them in his life. Richard never had a complaint, even when he was ill. He will be greatly missed, and his memory will live on in our hearts and minds.

Preceding Richard in his death are his parents, Reuben and Emily; brother, Michael; niece, Lindsey; and great-nephew, Braden.