PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Larry Rhoden has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, March 14, 2026, to honor the life and service of former state legislator Darrel “Dean” Schrempp.

Schrempp, a prominent rancher from Eagle Butte who passed away on February 21 at the age of 91, was a fixture in South Dakota public service for decades. He served in the South Dakota House of Representatives for 12 non-consecutive years, with terms spanning 1993 to 1995, 1997 to 1999, and 2009 to 2016. During his final tenure, his colleagues selected him to serve as the House Minority Whip for the 2015-2016 legislative sessions.

While in Pierre, Schrempp was a member of the Agriculture and Natural Resource, Transportation, Local Government, and Commerce committees. His influence was felt deeply in western South Dakota and the Rapid City area through his extensive local leadership. He served as a Dewey County Commissioner for eight consecutive years and was a member of the Farmers Union Board for 25 years.

Schrempp was a staunch advocate for rural healthcare and infrastructure. He collaborated with Governor George Mickelson to reopen the Eagle Butte Medical Clinic and subsequently served as the president of its board for more than 30 years. As president of the Eagle Butte Airport board for over 20 years, he was instrumental in remodeling and lengthening runways, a project that allowed larger fixed-wing aircraft to transport hospital patients in emergencies.

His community service reached a national level when he partnered with President Jimmy Carter on a Habitat for Humanity project to expand housing in Eagle Butte. In recognition of his tireless efforts, Governor Mickelson named him the Volunteer of the Year in 1992.

A dedicated mentor to the region’s youth, Schrempp was involved in amateur boxing for over 64 years as a boxer, coach, judge, and referee. Governor Mike Rounds issued an executive proclamation declaring March 31, 2006, as “Dean Schrempp Day” to honor his contributions to the sport. He was also honored by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe with several star quilts for his commitment to local boxing clubs.

A licensed pilot since 1975, Schrempp was also active in the Knights of Columbus and served on the parish council of All Saints Catholic Church.

A visitation will be held Friday, March 13, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at All Saints Parish in Eagle Butte, followed by a rosary at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10 a.m. CT / 9 a.m. MT on Saturday at the church, with burial to follow at Lantry Cemetery. Local arrangements are being coordinated by Kirk Funeral Home of Rapid City.

A licensed pilot since 1975, Schrempp was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and All Saints Catholic Church, where he served on the parish council.

A visitation will be held Friday, March 13, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. at All Saints Parish in Eagle Butte. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 10 a.m. CT / 9 a.m. MT on Saturday at the same location, with burial to follow at Lantry Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Kirk Funeral Home of Rapid City.