Harlan Plagge

Harlan Plagge, 79, of Big Stone City, SD, and formerly of Montevideo, MN, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Prairie Lakes Hospital in Watertown, SD.

Private family services will be held.

Harlan Duane Plagge was born on March 16, 1946, in Hampton, IA, to Clarence and Clara (Tabbatt) Plagge. He was raised on a farm near Latimer, IA. Harlan was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Latimer. He attended CAL Community High School, graduating with the Class of 1964. During his school years, he excelled in athletics, particularly in track and basketball. Harlan met his high school sweetheart in kindergarten, and their lifelong love story continued as they graduated together. He went on to attend Iowa State University in Ames, earning a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science.

On August 20, 1966, Harlan married the love of his life, Charlotte Helen Root, in Alexandria, IA. They made their home in Ringsted, IA, for 14 years, where they raised their four children: David, Nathan, Elizabeth, and Debra.

Harlan worked for George Hormel and Company for 20 years as a hog buyer in Ringsted, IA, and later in Montevideo, MN. He continued working for local cooperatives until his retirement. After retiring, Harlan and Charlotte moved to Big Stone Lake in South Dakota, where they enjoyed lake life and time with family.

He was a former member of the Methodist Church in Montevideo, Kiwanis, and the Barber Shop Chorus. Harlan enjoyed preparing for hunting and fishing trips, though he would admit that fishing itself wasn’t always his strength. He was an avid sports fan, especially of college basketball and the Minnesota Vikings. He also loved playing cards, observing nature and wildlife, and hosting summer barbecues at the lake.

Harlan is survived by his wife, Charlotte Plagge of Big Stone City, SD; his children: David (Jennifer) Plagge of Clara City, MN; Nathan Plagge of Belmond, OH; Elizabeth Buehner of Dell Rapids, SD; and Debra Plagge of Dell Rapids, SD; his grandchildren: Isabelle, Adelyn, Sullivan, and Christopher; his brothers: Darwin Plagge of Cedar Falls, IA; and Roy Plagge of Latimer, IA; and his sister, Judy (Mark) Barnhart of Monticello, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents: Clarence and Clara Plagge; as well as his paternal and maternal grandparents.