Harold Skovlund, age 75, of Brookings, passed away Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Ava's Hospice House in Sioux Falls. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, February 14, 2020, at the Grace Free Lutheran Church in Bruce, South Dakota, beginning at 2:00 p.m.  A time of visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the funeral service, at 1:00 p.m.  Due to weather conditions, a private burial will take place immediately following the service, at St. Petri Cemetery in rural Bruce, South Dakota.

Harold M. Skovlund was born on August 8, 1944, in Brookings, South Dakota, to Oscar and Mabel (Holter) Skovlund.  Harold spent much of his life in Bruce, South Dakota, and the surrounding area, and graduated from Bruce High School in 1962.  During his high school years, Harold was known to be an exceptional basketball player, and quarterback of the football team.

After graduation, Harold enlisted in the National Guard, arriving at boot camp in 1963 at Fort Leonard Wood.  Interestingly, all 9 of the Skovlund boys were enlisted in the military.  Harold worked at a variety of jobs, including hauling hay bales for local farmers, working at the Bruce elevator, a salesman for Successful Farming Magazine, and as a laborer at Adee Honey Farms.  Harold was also a member of the local American Legion post.

Harold had many joys in life, including watching the Minnesota Vikings and Twins, and spending a relaxing day fishing.  Perhaps his greatest love throughout his life was his family.  Growing up with fourteen siblings, Harold held a special bond with each of his brothers and sisters.  He also deeply loved his children, and was especially proud to be a grandpa to his two grandchildren.

Although he may have been a man of few words, Harold will be remembered as being kind, selfless, and humble.  He was a simple man, with a great sense of humor that quickly brought smiles to the faces of those closest to him.  He was quick to support somebody in need, and genuinely enjoyed helping others.

Those surviving Harold include his children: Brett Skovlund, of Brookings, SD, and Kellie Reaves, of Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren: Brooke Reaves and Jaxon Christion; special friend, Pam Skovlund; sister, Audrey Ulvestad, of Bruce, SD; and numerous sisters-in-law.

Harold is preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Olaf, Floyd, Adolph, Ralph, Leon, Alden, Gerald, and Melvin; sisters: Lucille and Audrey, (who passed away as infants), Evelyn Harpestad, Olga Hartley, Ellen Krogh, and Esther Boettcher; as well as several cousins, nieces, and nephews.