LeRoy Glen "Lee" Vande Weerd, age 72, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 4, 2026. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at First Reformed Church in Volga, SD. Visitation will be held the night prior from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at First Reformed Church. Interment will be held at Deer Creek Cemetery in rural Bruce, SD.

Lee was born on February 10, 1954, in Brookings, South Dakota, to Nick and Clara Vande Weerd. During his childhood, he lived in White, South Dakota, as well as Iowa and California, before his family settled in Bruce, South Dakota, where he would establish the roots that shaped the rest of his life. Lee graduated from Sioux Valley High School in 1972. He went to Lincoln Arc Welding Foundation in Cleveland, OH.

Lee married Dori in 1978, and together they were blessed with two sons, Justin and James. Farming was more than a career for Lee—it was his passion and way of life. He spent his entire life working the family farm alongside his brother, Rich, and later took great pride in farming with his sons, continuing the family legacy he cherished.

In 2001, Lee met Sandy Probst, and the two shared many wonderful years together filled with love, laughter, and companionship.

He loved farming, riding his motorcycle, traveling, and spending time at Lake Oakwood surrounded by family and friends. Known as the life of the party, Lee could always be counted on for a funny story, a well-timed joke, or a laugh that brought people together. His generous spirit, warm heart, and willingness to help others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Grateful for having shared his life are his loving companion, Sandy Probst; his sons, Justin (Michelle) Vande Weerd and James (Missy) Vande Weerd; and his beloved grandchildren, Jase, Ashlyn, Claire, Tate, Jaxson, and Everlee. He is also survived by his brothers, John (Linda) Vande Weerd and Rich (Julie) Vande Weerd; his sister, Joyce (Loryn) Klumper; his brother-in-law, Dave Johanson; and many cherished cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Clara Vande Weerd; his sister, Anna Johanson; and his niece, Jessica Vande Weerd.

Lee's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the land he devoted his life to, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.