RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA & KELOLAND) – Former South Dakota House Member Mike Diedrich passed away Sunday at the age of 70.
Diedrich stepped down from his position in the state legislature in 2024 to focus on his health through a battle with cancer.
Multiple friends and former colleagues of Diedrich posted on social media remembering his impact on the community.
In a news release, Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun wrote “Like so many, I am saddened by the passing of Mike Diedrich. He was a friend and mentor to many, including me. He was a true public servant.”
“Like so many, I am saddened by the passing of Mike Diedrich. He was a friend and mentor to many, including me. He was a true public servant. He had a passion for life, extended an open hand to everyone he encountered and served our community with grace, commitment, honor and dedication.” Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun said in a statement issued Sunday morning.
Republican Sen. Casey Crabtree posted photos of him and Diedrich on his Facebook page, and wrote, “As a leader he made South Dakota a better place and he brought out the best in those that served with him. He was always thoughtful, civil and had a special ability to get folks to smile.”
he Hanson-Larsen Memorial park said they were deeply saddened to hear of his passing, and that Diedrich was the first president of Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park Foundation.
“Mike was a life long resident of Rapid City, He was a Bush Scholar and a leader in the South Dakota State Legislature. We are sure that his work preserving this green space in the center of Rapid City will be one of his greatest accomplishments.” the Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park wrote on their Facebook page.
Senator Mike Rounds posted on his Facebook page:
“Sad to hear of the passing of former state legislator Mike Diedrich following a long and courageous battle with cancer. Mike was a good friend and my seat mate for two years while serving in the legislature together. His work representing Rapid City and our state made South Dakota a better place to live, work and raise a family. Praying for his wife Connie and their family as they grieve his loss.”
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