Gary Knispel
Gary Knispel, age 67, of Murdo, S.D., died on Friday, January 21, 2022 at his home in Murdo.
Gary Steven Knispel was born on April 10, 1954 in Winner, S.D. He attended elementary and secondary school in White River, S.D. graduating in May 1972. He went directly into the work force after graduating from high school. His jobs included: working on a ranch, road construction, carpentry, and driving a fuel delivery truck.
He decided to pursue a college education in January 1982. Gary attended the University of South Dakota for a one and a half school years. He transferred to Black Hills State University and completed his undergraduate degree in May 1986. Gary received a master’s degree in Secondary School Administration from Chadron State College and a specialist degree in Educational Administration from University of Sioux Falls.
His first teaching job was in Beatrice, Neb. Gary taught history in junior high and high school. Gary taught one year in Beatrice. His next teaching job would also be his last one. Gary taught high school social science, coached basketball, and track. He then became a technology person as well as a principal. Gary finally became Superintendent of the Jones County School District. His tenure would last from 1987 to 2012. He retired in 2012. He then went back to the life he loved working on ranches and driving truck.
Gary’s life was based on three major themes: mentorship, friendship, and loyalty. He mentored numerous young adults in his life. This truly was a great joy in his life. Gary had the ability to draw people to him and the ability to motivate them to do their very best. Many of these mentorships turned into lifelong friendships.
A friendship to Gary was not a causal thing. He was totally committed to his friends and was always available to help them. Gary did not do anything halfway he did everything with a hundred percent of his ability.
Loyalty defined Gary’s life as a teacher, coach, friend, mentor, and family member. There was nothing Gary wouldn’t do for you if he felt you needed his help. Generosity was something Gary practiced in his life. He was always there for you in good times or bad times.
Gary went home to his heavenly father on January 21, 2022 surrounded by his family.
Gary is survived by his brother Ronald Knispel; his sister, Jeanette(Jay) Drayer; many nieces and nephews plus numerous great nieces and great nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Gary’s family wishes to thank Dr. McKean, Cristina Gant, and all of the staff at the Prairie Cancer Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota for their expert, compassionate care. Jamie Hillmer and the staff at Helmsley Cancer Center in Pierre, South Dakota also provided expert and compassionate care. Dr. Richardson was Gary’s primary doctor, who saw him through numerous tough medical situations. His “angels”: Tammy Van Dam, Lea Glaze, Lexi Buxcel, and Lori Iversen in Murdo who cared for him for several severe medical problems.
In lieu of flowers, Gary would like memorials to go towards an outdoor basketball court at Jones County Elementary School.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. CST Wednesday, January 26, at the Harold Thune Auditorium in Murdo with Pastor Kathy Chesney officiating.
Following a luncheon, interment will be held at 1:15 p.m. CST at the White River Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Rush Funeral Home of Philip.
