Elvera Classen

Elvera Classen, age 88, of Big Stone City, SD passed away on February 26, 2020, at Milbank Area Hospital – Avera Health. She was the widow of Junior Classen, and she ran Schmidt’s Landing Resort for many years. Private funeral services will be held on May 9, 2020, at Mundwiler Funeral Home. Padre Davíd Garza will officiate, and burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Big Stone City, SD.

To protect the health and safety of all, services are currently being limited as required by state and local authorities and the CDC. Expressions of sympathy during this time can be left on the condolences page available with the obituary on our website. We also encourage you to view the video tribute that will be available. Check the funeral home website for the latest COVID-19 update.

Elvera (Schmidt) Classen was born on April 12, 1931, in Roberts County, SD. She was the daughter of Herbert and Eleaner (Schuler) Schmidt. She grew up in rural Big Stone City, SD, and graduated from Big Stone City High School.

On June 13, 1955, Elvera was united in marriage with Junior Classen in Anchorage, AK. They resided in Alaska while Junior was in the service and eventually moved to Big Stone Lake where they ran Schmidt’s Landing Resort for many years. Junior passed away in 1986.

Elvera was a loving mother and grandmother. She loved living on Big Stone Lake most of her life! She enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening. She cherished her dog, Ozzy; he meant the world to her. She was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church in Big Stone City.

Elvera is survived by her sons: Brian (Denis) Classen of Claremore, OK; and Terry (Lisa Eisenschenk) Classen of Big Stone City, SD; and three grandchildren: Dylan, Cody, and Blake.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Herbert and Eleaner; and her husband, Junior.