Louise Dorothy Hess, 79, of Spearfish, South Dakota, passed away surrounded by loved ones on July 2, 2026, at Edgewood Healthcare.

Louise was born on October 25, 1946, to Dorothy and Harry Langmaack in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. After graduating from Herman High School, she attended nursing school in Fergus Falls. In every place that she lived and worked, her passion for nursing showed in how she cared for those around her.

In 1969, Louise married Jerry Hess in Herman, MN, and became a stepmom to Dan. They were married for the next 55 years and went on to have 3 children: April, Greg and Duane.

Louise was a dedicated Christian and mother, raising her children to honor God and accomplish great things. Her family always came first, and the hole left by her absence is impossible to fill.

Louise was preceded in death by her daughter, April, brother, Jeff, and husband, Jerry. She is survived by her siblings Larry, Tony, Ramona, and her children Dan (Suzanne), Greg (Melanie), Duane (Gwen) and 7 wonderful grandchildren.

Services will be held at Kinkade Funeral Home in Sturgis, SD, on October 30, 2026 at 4:00 pm. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Private burial will take place at Black Hills National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse International.