Misty L. Hamar

of Kadoka, South Dakota, died on Thursday, August 17, 2017
at the Hans P. Peterson Memorial Hospital in Philip at the age of 38

An inspiration to others, Misty Hamar, 38, departed from her Earthly home after a courageous battle against synovial sarcoma cancer. After her stage 4 diagnosis in August 2016, Misty surpassed her life expectancy while continuing to smile her big smile and while circulating “B Positive” blood and attitude. After the recent decision was made for no further cancer treatments, one of Misty's brothers reportedly stated, “I went to cheer her up, instead she cheered me up.”

Misty Larelle Frink was born to Larry and Janelle (Herber) Frink on March 22, 1979, with her middle name being a combination of her parents’ names. Two brothers EJ (Earnest James) and Travis soon joined this young family. Living on the south edge of Kadoka, Misty's family suddenly became 4 members instead of 5: her dad who was a State Department of Transportation worker did not survive when a semi-truck ran into him in a construction area on I-90 on the north side of Kadoka, exit 150. Misty at 4 years 2 months was the oldest of the 3 children at the time.

By about age 6, Misty was the flower girl when her mom Janelle married Blake Hicks, a high school sweetheart. Siblings Katie, Joshua, and Blaine were added to her family with Misty now being the oldest of 6.

Throughout her life Misty was a (good) big sister and caretaker to others as well. She made everyone feel like they were someone. When someone seemed like they could use a friend, such as in a cafeteria, playground, or Subway where she worked some, Misty would soon be visiting them.

In Misty's words, “My husband, my children, and the small towns I have taught in and call home (Kadoka, Wanblee, Long Valley, Interior) made my life complete.” With her competitive nature, Misty was an Interior Cub from 1st-8th grades and a Kadoka Kougar in kindergarten and high school. After 2 years of college at Northern in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Misty married her high school sweetheart Jason Hamar on May 22, 1999. With Jason being a US Marine stationed in California, the newlyweds had one year of “vacationing and wedded bliss” in Fallbrook, CA before returning to SD to complete their degrees. Aberdeen saw two years of Jason working, putting Misty through college (BS in Elementary Education/minor in Early Childhood). Misty returned the favor for Jason, working two years in Rapid City at The Children's Home and YFS Headstart. In Rapid they started their family with Timothy Jason (TJ) being born in September 2002 and Alexis (Lexi) arriving in April 2004. When Alexis was 1 month old, Jason and Misty purchased their current home in Kadoka which had been Diana's Daycare. It soon became Misty's Daycare for 7 years (“my proudest job”). As in everyday life, she would expect kids to be playing with ducks or digging holes in her grass rather than watching TV or playing video games. During Misty’s Daycare years, 2 more children joined their family, daughter Aurora in December 2005 and son Dominick in October 2009. With God being important to Misty, she would routinely have their little brood of four young children at mass regularly, often sitting halfway-up-the-aisle on the right side of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church.

Misty started using her teaching degree in 2011 when she taught 1st grade at Wanblee, followed by 1 year of Title and 2 years of 6th-8th at Long Valley, and 1 year of 6th-8th at Interior. In Misty's words, “I completed a ‘Circle of Life’ by going back to teach there (Interior)!!”

Additional information includes Misty’s love of reading, softball, and Trevor’s Legacy. Misty always loved to read books; you can hear her read a couple books on the app Story Corps. Even though Misty’s hip did not always allow her to play softball, she was always a member of the Weta River Rat Team, which her grandparents Bernard and Barbara Herber coached and many relatives, including her mom and sister, were teammates. For Trevor’s Legacy Foundation, Misty was instrumental in its implementation, while also being credited with coming up with the name “Rock the Rim”.

In Misty's words, “God has a plan and he wanted to take me early. It was nice of Him, to make sure I had time to say goodbye and to make sure there are some good memories.” “...My life was perfect and complete--it was happy and I am left wanting nothing more. I will be watching graduations, weddings, and every day from Heaven.”

Survivors include her husband, Jason, of Kadoka; two sons, Timothy and Dominick Hamar of Kadoka; two daughters, Alexis and Aurora Hamar of Kadoka; her mother and father, Janelle and Blake Hicks; two brothers, EJ (Teresa) Frink and Travis (Amanda) Frink; two brothers Joshua (Alyssa) Hicks and Blaine Hicks; one sister, Katie Hicks; her grandparents, Bernard and Barbara Herber; her grandmother, Alice Harvey; her in-laws, Mick and Patty Hamar; her brother-in-law, Luke (Emily Dillon) Hamar; several cousins, nieces, and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Meeting her at heaven’s gate will be her father, Larry Frink.

A memorial has been established for their children's education. Cards and memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 428, Kadoka, SD 57543.

A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m. on Monday, August 21 at the Kadoka City Auditorium in Kadoka.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 22 at the Kadoka City Auditorium in Kadoka with Father Tyler Dennis as celebrant.

Interment will be at the Kadoka Cemetery.

Service Details

VISITATION
5-7 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m.
Monday, August 21, 2017
Kadoka City Auditorium
Kadoka, South Dakota

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
Tuesday, August 22, 2017 - 10:00 a.m.
Kadoka Auditorium
Kadoka, South Dakota

CELEBRANT
Father Tyler Dennis
Assisted by Deacon Cal Clifford

LECTOR
Janet Vander May

MUSIC
JoAnne Stilwell - Pianist
Congregational Hymns
“Amazing Grace”
“You Satisfy the Hungry Heart”
“Song of Farewell”
“Prayer of St. Francis”
Ron Svasek - Vocalist
“On Eagles Wings”

USHERS
Luke Hamar - John Herber

ALTAR SERVERS
Marcus Herber - Tel Vander May
Dylan Vander May - Elijah Hogen

PALLBEARERS
Andrew Adcock - Tyler Sarringar
Cap Herber - Jed Brown
Cooper Letellier - Michael Herber

HONORARY PALLBEARERS
All Relatives and Friends in Attendance

INTERMENT
Kadoka Cemetery
Kadoka, South Dakota

Guest Book

We just learned of Misty's passing and wanted to express our condolences to Misty's family. We hope that the blanket the kids made for her brought her comfort and served its purpose. With much love, the Warm Hearts Club
   ~ The Warm Hearts Club Frankfort, Illinois (8/18/2017)
sending thoughts and prayers tonthe Hamar family. Misty was truly a one of a kind. She is with the angels but we believe she was one on earth too. She was one of the first people i met here. i never felt judged by her no matter the situation. She was always smiling, and always shared a hello. She will be missed.
Our condolences.

   ~ Macfeats Kadoka (8/22/2017)
I never met Misty personally. But I feel like I got to know her through Facebook. I know her Mom Jannelle and Dad Blake, and her in laws Mike and Patty! God be with you! Heaven gained an angel. Hugs and Prayers to all of you! What a lady Misty was!
   ~ Jo Ann & Larry Heath Cody, NE (8/18/2017)
We are so sorry to hear of Misty's passing. One so young, and such a very full life. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. (I am eldest daughter of Edmund & Isabella Herber) Love, hugs and kisses to you all.
   ~ Sharon & Earl Wolfe South Bend, Washington (8/19/2017)
My heart is breaking for the family and friends of Misty, she was a beautiful soul. Her beautiful smile and easy way with people was a blessing. May God comfort all her loved ones during this difficult time.
   ~ Diana Elwood Volborg, MT (8/18/2017)
To the family and friends,
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one.
When Jesus was on earth his friend Lazarus died. He was in the tomb for 4 days already when Jesus arrived. Mary and Martha, Lazarus' sisters were grieving and Jesus gave way to tears. Jesus compared death to sleep. He called to Lazarus and Lazarus came back to life! You can read this wonderful true account in the Bible at John chapter 11. Jusus demonstrated what he will do for mankind when his kingdom government is ruling over all the earth. Our loved ones will come back to life! At time there will be no more pain or death (Revelation 21:3,4.)
If you would like a free Bible study to bring you comfort, please go to the bottom of the home page at jw.org

   ~ BL Qualls Knoxville, TN (9/11/2017)
Jason & family,
Sending my condolences. You're in my prayers.

   ~ Merti Whirlwind Horse Interior, SD (8/21/2017)
I am sorry I was unable to be with you at this time, but I will cherish the Sunday in June at Janelle's. Peace be with you.
   ~ Mary Kehrer (Frink) Port Charlotte, FL (8/19/2017)
Jason, kids and family,
I was so sorry to hear the news, Terra let me know and we talked about memories of misty......she was a beautiful soul and leaves a legacy of love that has inspired so many. I stopped and visited her last fall and was humbled by her courage. Love to you all......

   ~ Joni thomsen Rapid city sd (8/19/2017)
My condolences go out to all of Misty's Family. Misty was an amazing woman who will be remembered by all who knew her. Prayers for strength and understanding. Always remember she is with you all daily and won't miss a thing.
   ~ Kristen Bouman & Family Shippensburg Pennsylvania (8/21/2017)
Jason and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Misty's passing, I am sure Heaven has another Angel in the choir. Misty is an inspiration to all that knew her.

   ~ Betty Lou Stratton Kadoka, SD (8/19/2017)
Sending prayers to your families. Suzanne and George, James A. Livermont and families.

   ~ Suzanne Livermont-Stathem Rapid City, So. Dak. (8/20/2017)
God speed my Friend we should all be like you and enjoy the moments we have. Until we meet again my love goes with you and to the Family you are in our Hearts and Prayers...
   ~ Bruce and Bonnie Madsen Kadoka S.D. (8/18/2017)
Dear Jason and Kids
Misty was a kind soul and greeted me with a smile always and I was usually lucky enough to get a hug too! I remember when she asked me to be in your wedding, she teased me that I was your bridesmaid ;) It truly was an honor.
Misty spent her life being a teacher, even long before she was 'taught' how. She leaves a wonderful legacy for you and your children. She always loved first and never judged. She always did things for others, never worrying about herself, even in her final days she was still teaching and loving and making sure everyone was ok.
I am blessed to have been your friend/cousin all of these years and to watch our kids grow up. Misty and I talked a lot this past year about so many things. Her time here on Earth was short but the things she taught us and the way she loved all she met, will forever linger.
God's blessings and comfort to you in the days ahead. He will hold you up when you feel like you can't hold yourself anymore. He will remind you each day of your beautiful Misty, in a gentle breeze or a bright sunrise.
Love you always
David, Michelle, Kelcey, Katie and Lukas Butler

   ~ Michelle Butler Philip SD (8/20/2017)
Jason, im so glad I had you and Misty for neighbors. I'll never forget the time she and the kids came over to help me cut branches out of my trees. She was a one of a kind woman and will be greatly missed. I am just across the street if you need me.
   ~ Woody Davis Kadoka SD (8/20/2017)
I am glad I had the chance to meet such a wonderful woman will truly be missed
   ~ Erica strehlow Kadoka geddes (8/18/2017)
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort and strength to cope during this difficult.
   ~ Stephanie (Sherburne) Ordal Sioux Falls, SD (8/18/2017)
I have so many wonderful childhood memories involving Misty. I remember each one with her beautiful smile and laughter. Misty was a gift to us all, such a genuine, loving person. She will continue to touch so many lives in the years to come as her memory lives on. Sending love and hugs to her family.
   ~ Michelle Barraza Bremerton, WA (8/20/2017)
So very sorry to hear of Misty's passing. So many fun times playing softball with her. Always a joy to be around. Thoughts and prayers to all the families.
   ~ Steph Carlson Rapid City (8/18/2017)
We are sorry for your loss but take heart for Heaven gained a warrior! Sending our love and prayers!
   ~ Joelle Johnson Forbes N.D. (8/22/2017)
My sincere condolences to Misty's family and the Kadoka, Long Valley and Interior communities. She was obviously an inspiration as wife, mom, teacher, community member and friend. My heart goes out to all.
   ~ RoseAnn (Stratton) Wendell Pierre (8/18/2017)

Flowers

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The Collers - Sauntee, Heidi, Jerica, Jadyn, Jyntre, and Jyrzee
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The SDHP Honor Guard Team
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Farynn Knutson and Family
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Kadoka Area School Board, Administration, and Staff
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The 8th Grade Class
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Ken & Linda Phipps, Vint & Amy Ireland & Family, and Brett & Tara Jordan & Family
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Rich and Amber Sylva
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Michael and Alyssa
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Jem and Kelly Kjerstad and Family
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Discount Fuel, Kadoka Oil - Mark and Tammy Carlson and Family
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The Thompson Families - Nichole, Travis, Tate, Maggie, and Ty
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Nedra, Liam, Isaac, and Bratley
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Jim and Debbie Antonsen and Families
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The Class of 1999
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SDHP Badlands Squad
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To: Alexia - From: Tejai
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Class of 1996
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Class of 1997
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Your brothers and sisters in the SDHP Association
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Kadoka Football Team
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The S.D.H.P. Honor Guard Team
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Stephen, Linda, Nathan, Trena, Robert, Mel, Chancey, Charlie, Mamie, Sommer, Tyler, Tom, and Clara
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Kenny & Doris and Jay Grubl & Darcy
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Kim, Bonnie, and Brad - Kadoka School Custodians
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Erica and Andy Strehlow Amdahl and Family
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John & Mary Handcock & Family and Clem & Marcy Handcock
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To: Dominick - From: Your Classmates
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Long Valley Community
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Family - "Daughter" "Wife" "Mother" "Friend" "Sister" "Aunt" "Daughter-in-Law" "Granddaughter" "Niece"
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Ron, Deb, Andy, and Carly
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Chuck & Janet Vander May, Michelle & David Butler & Family, Elizabeth & Ryan Stricker & Family, and Luke & Wanda Vander May & Family
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The Jacksons and the Zimmermans
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Thesa Holly & Family, Matt & Naomi & Family, Callie & Tim & Family, and Terry & Kris & Family
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Jim, Cati, and Caitlin
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Jackson County / Kadoka Law Enforcement
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Dick and Carol Lee
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The SD Highway Patrol District 3 Staff
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To: Aurora - From: The Class of 2025