Verle Dean Kickland , 73, of Chamberlain passed away on June 15, 2020 at his home.   As per his wishes there will be no services.

Verle Dean Kickland was born March 28, 1947 in Chamberlain, SD to Verlyn and Bernice (Klimes) Kickland.  The Kickland family as caretakers of all recreational facilities on American Island were the last residents of the Island before it was flooded.

Growing up in Chamberlain set the stage for Verle's life-long love of all the recreational opportunities provided by the Missouri River - boating, fishing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and exploring miles of shoreline.  He and his adventurous friends would attempt to ski every month of the year, including one notable effort in icy waters on New Year's Day.

Verle graduated from Chamberlain High School in 1965.  He went to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, MO but was unable to continue because of deteriorating knees.  Returning home he continued his exploration of multiple careers.

Automotive repair and restoration were a constant throughout his life.  Along the way he was also an appliance and small engine repairman, meat locker employee, plumbing and heating assistant, fishing and boating consultant at Cadwell's Marina, and maintenance man at the Riverview Apartments.

Through the long hot summer days on the river he often volunteered his water-skiing skills to instruct many young people in the area.   At times he was called upon to provide water rescues to distressed individuals.  In younger days, he even performed as a rock and roll guitar player in several local bands.

In later years he developed a passion for local history and antique restoration.  In particular he was active in researching and promoting American Island Days.

Verle loved his community and had visions for improvements - most notably he initiated a plan to construct a lighthouse at the convergence of American Creek and the Missouri River.

Verle was a man of good humor and many talents and he was always available to help others.  Grateful for sharing his life are his sisters: Carole George of Lander, WY, Janice (Larry) Schelle of Groton, SD, Diane Henrichsen of Carson, WA, and Cheryl Viereck (Roger) of Libby, MT; a brother Rocky (Denisha) Kickland of Chamberlain; many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and so many good friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents Verlyn and Bernice Kickland, his sister Arlewyn, brother-in-law Joe George, three nieces, and two nephews.