Arlene Knaus

Arlene Knaus, 95, of rural Twin Brooks, SD, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Milbank Area Hospital - Avera Health. 

Memorial Services will be held at a later date. 

Arlene Delores Harms was born on February 3, 1930, at home in Roberts County, in Garfield Township, to Ibeling and Marie (Wiese) Harms. She was baptized and confirmed at the First Baptist Church in Corona, South Dakota.

Arlene attended grade school in Corona and later graduated from the West Central School of Agriculture at the University of Minnesota in Morris, MN.

On January 3, 1951, Arlene was united in marriage to Aaron Knaus in the parsonage of the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Milbank, SD. They were blessed with sons: Delaine, Stanley, and Darwin. Together, they were active on their farm near Twin Brooks until retiring in 2003. They worked side by side, taking turns operating their two old John Deere combines. Arlene would load the combines while Aaron hauled the grain to the elevator.

Arlene had a passion for gardening and houseplants. She maintained a thriving garden, canning and freezing her produce each season. She also raised and butchered chickens. A skilled quilter and needleworker, Arlene crafted beautiful hand-sewn clothing and special gifts for loved ones. She was a devoted homemaker, known for her cooking and baking, especially her legendary homemade bread.

Family meant everything to Arlene. She always made time for her boys, creating lasting memories through fun activities and everyday moments. She was a source of love, support, and care for everyone in her family.

Arlene’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She remained an active member of her church community through the years, attending the Evangelical United Brethren Church and later the Central United Methodist Church.

Arlene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her presence, warmth, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving husband, Aaron Knaus; three sons: Delaine (Jackie) of Brookings, SD; Stanley Knaus of Solomon, KS; Darwin Knaus of Twin Brooks, SD; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Ibeling and Marie; brothers: Elmer, Harvey, Marlyn, and George; and sister, Sylvia.