Grace Ann DeVries

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Saturday, March 5, 2011
at the Hans P. Peterson Memorial Hospital in Philip, surrounded by her family and friends at the age of 50

Grace’s commitment to her family, to her Sunday School Class, and to her music students was an inspiration to all who knew her.
Grace Ann Dolezal was born on September 9, 1960, in Kadoka, South Dakota, the daughter of Larry and Joy (Ramey) Dolezal of Belvidere. After graduation from Kadoka High School she was united in marriage to Tom DeVries on August 26, 1978. They made their home in the Belvidere and Midland communities. Two daughters, Sarah and Trisha, made their family complete.
She is survived by her husband Tom of Midland; two daughters Sarah DeVries of Rapid City, and Trisha DeVries of Midland and her husband to be Landon Bork of Okaton; her parents Larry and Joy Dolezal of Belvidere; her sister Carmen Nemec and her husband Jim of Belle Fourche; her brother John Dolezal and his wife Jamie of Belvidere; her grandmother Blanche Dolezal of Philip; her grandfather James Ramey of Deadwood; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.
In lieu of a funeral service, a come and go visitation was held from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 11, at the Belvidere Community Hall, attended by Pastor Gary McCubbin and Pastor Gus Craven. Any of her former piano students were encouraged to play a piano piece for Grace during the time of visitation.
A private family service and burial will be held at a later date, at the Belvidere Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the Hans P. Peterson Memorial Hospital and Eagle’s Nest Life Center.
Memorials may be sent to:  23678 253 Ave. Midland, SD  57552

VISITATION
1:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday, March 11, 2011
Belvidere Community Hall
Belvidere, South Dakota

CLERGY
Pastor Gary McCubbin
Pastor Gus Craven

MUSIC
Provided by Grace's Piano Students

PALLBEARERS
Mike Trapp - Barry Jones
Shad Finn - Doug Maddox
Bill Eckert - Chuck Willard - John Bauman

PRIVATE FAMILY INTERMENT
Belvidere Cemetery
Belvidere, South Dakota

Service Details

In lieu of a funeral service, the family would like to invite everyone to an informal come and go visitation from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 11, at the Belvidere Community Hall, attended by Pastor Gary McCubbin and Pastor Gus Craven. Any of her former piano students who would like to play a piece for Grace will be welcome to do so during the time of visitation.
A private family service and burial will be held at a later date, at the Belvidere Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the Hans P. Peterson Memorial Hospital and Eagle’s Nest Life Center.

Guest Book

Tom, Trisha, Sarah & family
There are no words. Heaven now has another beautiful angel and we all have a deep hole in our hearts and lives. We love you and keep you all in our prayers and thoughts. Please know that Grace touched so many of our lives and we will never forget her kind and gentle spirit. As you go through each and every day, remember that there are so many of us holding you in our hearts and know if there is anything you need we are here.
We wish you love, strength and most of all we wish you peace.I know the Lord is holding you in his arms.
Love, Nicki, Wes & James

   ~ Nicole Nelson Midland (3/5/2011)
Tom, Sarah, Trisha and Family,
Grace was the kindest person we have ever known. Grace was such a positive influence in Jamilyn's life and we are so grateful for the joy that she brought to the Sunday School class and piano lessons. Grace's smile and laughter will live on in us forever.
God Bless all of you,
Jim, Georgann and Jamilyn

   ~ Jim,Georgann, and Jamilyn Belvidere,SD (3/5/2011)
Tom and Family: I did not know Grace but I know you and I am sorry for your loss. God be with you and your family at this difficult time.
   ~ Matt Schofield Philip (3/5/2011)
Tom, Trisha, Sarah & family-
You continue to be in our prayers. May God hold you close as you try to adjust during this difficult time. Grace was a wonderful person and the love others felt for her was evident in the number of people who embraced and supported her during her stay at the Philip Hospital. Tom, you gave her such wonderful care. You never left her side. Now she is safe in Gods arms and you can be sure that she will be looking down from her special place in Heaven and watching over you and the girls.

   ~ Larry and Julie McLaughlin Midland (3/5/2011)
We ar so sorry to hear about your loss. Grace was such a wonderful person,she will be missed by so many people.Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless you
   ~ Sid & Lesa Addison 23066 293st. martin (3/5/2011)
So sorry to hear about Grace's illness and passing. What a lovely angel heaven gained.
   ~ Suzanne (VanderMay) Hoon Kadoka (3/5/2011)
Tom, Sarah, Trisha, & Family,
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you during this difficult time. Grace touched the lives of so many young people with her God given talent. Thank you for sharing her with her piano students and their families. Heaven is now blessed to have Grace adding her music to the Angel choir.
Tom & Cynthia

   ~ Cynthia & Tom Finn Philip (3/5/2011)
I can just envision Grace being ushered into heaven. We did not know her well, but knew she loved the Lord, not because we had been told but because it seemed to radiate from her. We are sorry for your loss, and are praying for your family.
   ~ Lee Ann and Rod Knutson Philip (3/5/2011)
Tom, Sarah, Trisha, Larry, Joy and all the rest of the family. Our ties with you go back with you a long ways and the memories of time spent with Grace and you at various events will be treasured. The music Grace shared with our family is a priceless gift, and one our children will use for years to come. I was remembering the Belvidere Band this afternoon, and I'm sure Eddie, Jack, Bayward, and Bud were there waiting for Grace to get out her tenor sax and make some beautiful music again. Our heartfelt sympathies to you all, as the tears fall, may the memories live on, and the comfort of knowing that Grace is now in a beautiful place where we will all meet again some day.
   ~ Susan and Steve VanTassel Midland (3/5/2011)
To Grace's family,
May you feel the love from all around and let it warm your hearts. We know that God is with you to carry you and to hold you when you need it the most.
It was always a joy to listen to Grace play piano and you should be very proud of all of the lives she touched.
Thanks again very much for your tenderness and caring to others, even when you were dealing with such grief yourselves.
May God bless you and hold you close
David, Michelle, Kelcey, Katie & Lukas Butler

   ~ Michelle (Vander May)Butler Philip SD (3/5/2011)
Our hearts go out to you and we offer our sympathy and our prayers to you all. May your memories and His love surround you all and bring you comfort.
   ~ Gary and Julie Nixon 21142 224th Street Philip, SD 57567 (3/5/2011)
What a great loss, Grace was the Visible example of Grace. She was a wonderful friend and piano teacher to 2 of my boys and myself. We are praying for you and know that this loss is great. WE love you all and we will be praying. Dan and Sarah
   ~ Pastor Dan and Sarah Carlson PO Box 20403 Colorado City, CO 81019 (3/5/2011)
I'm sorry for your loss.
   ~ Emily Tapp 24952 US Hwy 14 (3/5/2011)
Joy, Words cannot express the deep sadness felt for you losing your beautiful Grace. I cherish our time quilting together. You taught me so much. I also know how much you love your children and family. Just know our Lord has a wonderful place for Grace.
   ~ Sally Sherburne Sioux Falls, SD (3/5/2011)
Grace was a remarkable person who will be sorely missed! Keeping you all in my prayers.
Lyn

   ~ Lyn Steen Huron, SD (3/5/2011)
I'm so sorry for your loss. My kids and I really loved her. She was a beautiful woman inside and out.
   ~ Shiloh Willard Gillette Wy (3/5/2011)
My sympathy is extended to the DeVries and Dolezal families. I never had the privilege of meeting Grace but always heard wonderful things about her. Joy and Larry, I am so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you in this sad time.
   ~ Etta Evans Colmesneil, Texas (3/5/2011)
Love, prayers, and deepest sympathy to Grace's friends and family! Grace was a gracious and talented lady! I cherish my memories of being in the Kadoka Community Choir as she accompanied.
   ~ Scott and Julie Kaltenbach Long Valley, SD (3/5/2011)
We are thinking and praying for all of you and your loss.
   ~ Jane Brunson Livingston and family Fairburn SD (3/5/2011)
My thoughts & prayers are with you. It has been many years since I've seen any of you, but Grace had a special place in my heart. May God comfort you and give you strength during this time.
   ~ Debbie Klima Rapid City, SD (3/5/2011)
It's hard to even find words to say, knowing that your loss is extremely deep and hurtful. For this I am truly sorry and am praying for a special touch from our heavenly Father for all of you...Grace's beloved family.
As you hold on to one another, know the Lord is holding you until you gather together again in His kingdom.

   ~ Rocky and Rebecca Williams Philip (3/5/2011)
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Grace played the piano so beautifully. Our thoughts and prayers will be with Tom and the girls during this sad time.
   ~ Ken Crouse and family Avon, SD (3/5/2011)
Dolezals & Tom/girls: I am so sorry for your loss. Grace was a beautiful person, outside and inside. I feel priveliged to have been a part of her life "way back when", because she was one of my piano students and was such a studious student, very serious about her practice and touch and "doing it right." Her music became a ministry that touched many lives; my Dad loved her playing. I'd love to be at the visitation this Friday; that's sure to be a special time for everyone. I pray that you have many "remember whens" and precious memories as you visit w/ family and fiends during these very difficult days in your lives. May God be especially close to you at this time. Beryl
   ~ Beryl (Addison) Geer PO Box 2018, Gllette, WY 82717-2018 (3/5/2011)
Our prayers are with this special family. Grace was special and we are saddened by her passing.
   ~ Rick and Marilynne Rickenbach Eden Prairie, MN (3/5/2011)
We are sorry for your loss. Grace was living proof that God is real. Her light shined bright. We will be praying for you all.

   ~ Scot and Jodie OBryan Belvidere SD (3/5/2011)
Grace taught piano lessons at the United Church in Philip when I pastored there. She would play the piano beatifully while waiting for students to arrive. I always used to tease her about how nice it was to have a 'soundtrack' for whatever I was doing. My God strengthen you and bless you during this most difficult time.
   ~ Mark Ford St. Cloud, MN (3/5/2011)
Our hearts hold you close in our thoughts and prayers. God choose a wonderful family for your Grace to spend her life with and the lovely memories you all have will always share a special place in your hearts. God be with you and comfort you always.
   ~ Jerry and Vivian (Craven)Snyder 218 Linnell St. , Pierre, SD. (3/5/2011)
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.Ryan, Kayla, Tayah, and Ryker
   ~ Kayla Anderson Murdo, SD (3/5/2011)
Tom & family
We were saddened to hear of Grace's passing. She was a wonderful woman who touched many people and she will always have a special place in our heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

   ~ Gary Shepherd Spearfish, SD (3/5/2011)
Very sorry to Grace's family and Larry and Joy's family too. It is very comforting to know she is in the Lord's hands now and is probably playing piano for the Lord. You all are in our thoughts and prayers and I am grateful I got to know her through the Christmas trees at the courthouse. God Bless You All.
   ~ Nancy Neville Philip (3/5/2011)
We are so sorry for your loss, and are praying every day that the Lord will hold you in His arms and carry you through this time. I have no doubt that at this time Grace is not only standing looking into the face of Jesus, but is being told "WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT! The positive influence Grace had on all those who she touched is truly what being a Christian means. Again, our prayers are with you all
   ~ Patsy & Irwin Ferguson Kadoka, SD (3/5/2011)
We want to extend our deepest sympathy at this difficult time, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. She truly touched the hearts of many!
   ~ Joe and Joan Fillaus Avon, South Dakota (3/5/2011)
We are so sorry for your great loss. May God provide you with much love, comfort, and peace. Our many prayers, Mike and Shar
   ~ MIke & Shar Moses Philip, S.D. (3/5/2011)
Tom & Girls,
I am so sorry for your loss. Know that Grace is not hurting now and is at peace with the Lord. Keep the memories for these will help get you through the days ahead.
Thesa

   ~ Thesa Irelad 22830 SD Hwy 248 Kadoka, SD (3/5/2011)
May she rest in peace.
   ~ Tony Harty Box 34 Kadoka S.D, 57543 (3/5/2011)
Tom & family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time. May your wonderful memories bring you much comfort in the days to come.

   ~ Hal, Tammy, Ryan & Todd Jewett Pierre, SD (3/5/2011)
Tom & family
I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy at this time of loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

   ~ John & Denise Brooks Lake Andes, SD (3/5/2011)
Tom & Family,
We are keeping you in our prayers during your time of loss.

   ~ Lawrence & Ronda Schofield Midland, SD (3/5/2011)
Tom and family,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.

   ~ Robin Johnson Cedar Rapids, Iowa (3/5/2011)
Joy, there are no words that can be said to take away your pain at this time. We are so sorry to hear about Grace, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
   ~ James & Shirley Vrana Hempstead, Tx. (3/5/2011)
Sorry to hear of your loss. May your good friends and family help you through this difficult time.
   ~ Keith and Roxi Gaaskjolen Meadow, SD (3/5/2011)
We have been praying for all of you since Grace has been so sick and will continue to do so as you now adjust to life without her. We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Even though we know she is rejoicing in heaven, it is still hard to let her go. Grace was such a wonderful person... I will remember her gentle, sweet nature. She always took time to catch up and you could sense she really cared to whomever she was visiting with. Grace accompanied Barby and I singing several times and we always appreciated how talented she was. We looked forward to the times we could sing with her playing. I know there are going to be so many moments in the days and years ahead that you miss her presence. We will be praying that God gently carries you through those times. Blessings--
   ~ Becky (Nemec) , Rob & Josiah Thompson Sioux Falls, SD (3/5/2011)
Joy, Larry, Tom & Family - Since I heard of Grace's passing all I've been able to think about was meeting her. I was about 16. She was this cute little 2 year old. Life can go by so quickly, yet we know that her faith has carried her through. God bless all of you. May God give you His peace at this time.
   ~ David & Melody Payne Londonderry, NH (3/5/2011)
Tom and family, I was so sorry to hear of Grace's passing. We know she is in heaven and with the LORD. May you find peace and comfort knowing that. I am praying for each of you during this difficult time.
   ~ Janice(Stickler)Heigh Rapid City (3/5/2011)
Tom, Larry, Joy, Carmen, John, & family...What a blessing Grace and all of you have been in our lives! Although decades pass quickly, fond memories of times shared with Grace & all of you will last a lifetime. Ecclesisastes 7:1 says, "The day one dies is better than the day he is born! For you are ging to die and it is a good thing to think about it while there is still time. Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us. Yes, a wise man thinks much of death, while the fool thinks only of having a good time now." Grace and all of you have exemplified God's love in your every day lives! May God strengthen, comfort, bless, and guide you in the days and months ahead. Love & prayers, Greg & Lisa Uhlir
   ~ Greg & Lisa Uhlir 8516 E. Willow Ridge Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57110 (3/5/2011)
Tom and family,

It was so hard to hear of Grace's passing. She has often been in my thoughts over the years,....her patience while teaching, her kind sweet words and always her gentle smile. She will be missed dearly by so many that she has touched over the years. My heart goes out to you all.

Tammy Prokop

   ~ Tammy Prokop 3252 Lake Shore Circle, Chaska MN (3/5/2011)
Our love and prayers go out to you and your family at this time of great loss.
   ~ Darrell & Janet Thompson Sutter, IL (3/5/2011)
Our hearts and prayers go out to Grace's family. We always thought Grace fully lived up to her beautiful name. She was such a superb piano teacher & wonderful witness of Christ.
   ~ Robert,Betty and Ashley Berry Midland, SD (3/5/2011)
I just want you to know that we have kept Grace in our prayers, and also prayers at our church have been said for Grace and your family these past couple of Sundays. She was Brenda and Chuck's first piano teacher. I would entertain Sarah while she gave the kids there lesson. She was so precious and kind hearted. I know she is safe in the good Lord's arms, but it is so sad and difficult to let your loved one go. May all the wonderful memories you have of Grace, bring you and your family comfort.


   ~ Bruce & Virginia Conlee Black Hawk, SD (3/5/2011)
We were so very sad to hear of Grace's death. She was such a wonderful person. Only remember her with a smile on her face and helping out whenever she could. May she rest in peace with her Lord and may God's love comfort her family through the thoughts prayers and love of others. Our thoughts and prayers are certainly with you all at this very difficult time. Sincerely, Mark and Glenda Nemec
   ~ Mark and Glenda Nemec Hill City, SD (3/5/2011)
Tom, Sarah & Trisha, Joy & Larry,

When we are twenty, we think fifty is old. When we are fifty, we think it is young. Grace was young and beautiful with so much yet to offer. May memories and God's blessing give you comfort and peace today and in the days ahead.

   ~ Roxy McCormick Schmit Spearfish, SD (3/5/2011)
Tom, Sarah, Trisha, Larry, & Joy, and families,
So sorry to hear of your loss, but she is in a much better place now. Free of all pain and suffering! She was a very special caring lady. May Gods Blessings give you comfort and peace today and everyday! We will keep you in our prayers! Gary & Jody Block

   ~ Gary & Jody block Midland, SD (3/5/2011)
My deepest thoughts & prayers for your loss.
Grace, you are with god now, I always admired you and so happy to know you. I said hi to you 3 yrs ago while I was home visiting my family!
You will be missed!

   ~ Robin Bearheels Seattle, WA (3/5/2011)
We feel so blessed for our friendship with Grace. She willingly shared her incredible kindness and talent with all of us. She was able to touch so many lives with her talents. What an inspiration she has been to us with her love and devotion to God, family and friends. She was able to make a positive difference in the lives of so many people and we are grateful that we can be included with them. Thank you Grace.
Our love and prayers to Tom, Sarah & Trisha, Larry & Joy, Carmen & Jim & family, John & Jamie & family, Blanche Dolezal and Jim Ramey

   ~ Julie and Cash Hogen Pierre SD (3/5/2011)
Larry, Joy, and family of Grace. I'm saddened to hear of your loss, but I know she is in an awesome place far better than here. God loaned her to you for a little while, and has called her home. My prayers are with you all.
   ~ Beth Glynn 1036 E. Park Ave. Riverton, WY 82501 (3/5/2011)

Flowers

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Ann and John
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Barry, Bryer and Lexi Jones
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KHS Class of 1999
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The Class of 2009
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The Grant Patterson Family
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Larry & Joy and Family
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Lonny & Carrie Johnston and Family
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Class of 1978
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Green Tree Correspondence Department
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Mike & Debbie Trapp and Family
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Philip Health Services - Employees and Board of Directors
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Clem & Marcy Handcock and Jake Handcock
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All of us at 1880 Town
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John and Anita