Rick Janssen

Rick Janssen, age 71, of Corona, SD, passed away on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, in Milbank, SD.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Corona, SD. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Rev. Martin Herzberg will officiate, and inurnment will be at Milbank Cemetery.

Rick Lee Janssen was born on November 2, 1950, in Milbank, SD, to Norbert and Grace (Buttke) Janssen. He grew up in the Corona area and graduated from Corona High School with the Class of 1969. After graduation, Rick attended college at Dakota State University in Madison, SD, earning his bachelor’s degree in arts and business. He went to work for Gehl Machinery Manufacturing Company in Madison and worked there for over 30 years. When he retired, Rick moved back to his roots in Corona.

Rick was gifted as an artist. He created many artistic sculptures, painted many works, and wrote many poems. He enjoyed geology of any kind and spent many hours reading and studying rocks and other gifts the earth had to offer. Rick’s passion was running the pottery kiln at his alma mater, Dakota State University. He loved to see all the different works of art each student spent time creating. Rick also liked reading and attending many art retreats.

Rick is survived by his three children: Chris Janssen of Madison, SD; Matt Janssen of Lennox, SD; and Sarah (Trevor) Tesch of Lennox, SD; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brother, Randall (Paula) Janssen of Sioux Falls, SD; along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents; one great-grandchild; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.