RAPID CITY — Verlyn Levi Stotz, 90, of Rapid City and formerly of Huron, passed away Sunday, February 25, 2024, due to complications from a previous cancer.
Verlyn was born on June 9, 1933, to Edward and Matilda “Tillie” Stotz in Tolstoy. He graduated from Bowdle High School in 1951.
On May 31, 1953, he married Ella Buechler. Three children were born to this union - Sheri, Michael and Mark.
Verlyn graduated from Northern State College in 1956. He immediately began his teaching career, first in a rural school, then in Howard. In 1958 the family moved to Huron, where Verlyn taught and was a school administrator for 30 years. In 1988, Verlyn and Ella moved to Rapid City.
Verlyn participated in many sports in high school and maintained a lifelong passion for them. As an adult, he refereed high school and college basketball and football and umpired baseball. Throughout his life, he continued to enjoy watching sporting events. In retirement, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Ella; two children, Sheri (Tracy) Settle of Bradenton, Fla., and Mark (Paula) Stotz of Rapid City; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents Ed and Tillie, and his son, Michael.
Verlyn will be laid to rest at the Tolstoy Zion Cemetery. The family will hold a private gathering only.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Tolstoy Zion Cemetery Fund. Condolences may be sent to: 4273 Rosemary Lane, Rapid City, SD, 57702.