Connie Pauline Henke

February 4, 1953 – October 15, 2026

Connie Pauline Henke, 73, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026, with her family by her side.

Born in Auburn, California, Connie grew up on a farm surrounded by horses, dogs, and nature, things she would love throughout her life. At 17, she married the love of her life, William “Bill” Henke, and together they built a life filled with family, love, and adventure.

Connie was kind, thoughtful, and easygoing, with a quiet strength and determination that carried her through life. She was the backbone of her family, always there to offer support, encouragement, and a listening ear. She had a way of making others feel cared for and was someone family and friends could always count on.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Connie was her family’s biggest supporter. During her daughters’ high school years in Okinawa, Japan, she was always in the stands, cheering them on with her video camera in hand. She was incredibly creative and could make just about anything, from her daughters’ childhood clothes and school dance dresses to square dancing outfits for herself and Bill.

Connie found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including camping, hiking, swimming, floating in the lake, relaxing in the hot tub, and spending time with family. She especially loved her grandchildren and her beloved dogs, Spunky, Scruffy, and Trixie. Whether sharing an adventure or simply enjoying each other’s company, time spent with Connie was always special.

Connie is survived by her daughters, Tammy Miller and her husband, Richard Miller, and Dawn Miller and her husband, Daniel Miller; her grandchildren, Morgan Lenz, Peyton Lenz, Riley Schmidt, and Conner Schmidt; and her brother, Howard Craig, and sister, Donna Smith.

Connie will be remembered for her kindness, uplifting spirit, quiet strength, and the love and support she showed to others. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created will be cherished forever.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 1:30 pm at Black Hills National Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at 2:00 pm at the Sturgis Vet’s Club, 868 Main Street in Sturgis.

You may sign her online guestbook at www.kinkadefunerals.com.