Rynell Marie Schalesky, 59, of Aurora, South Dakota, passed away on December 1, 2025, in Sioux Falls, SD, at Avera McKennan Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones, due to surgery complications. A Visitation will be held Thursday, December 11, 2025 from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings, South Dakota.

Rynell was born on March 12, 1966, in Dickinson, North Dakota, to Edward and Lois Berger. She grew up and was educated in Dickinson, ND, where she formed lifelong memories and friendships. Rynell brought warmth and compassion into the lives of all who knew her. On October 11, 1982, Rynell married Clint Schalesky, and from that union they welcomed their daughter, Kari Ann, they later divorced.

Rynell had a warm spirit, a big heart, and a smile that could brighten any room. While living in Dickinson, she worked at Paragon as a bartender and later as a manager at Tiger Discount. Throughout her life in South Dakota, she held various bartending and factory positions, where she was known for her strong work ethic and the kindness she showed to everyone she met.

Her life was marked by deep kindness and a nurturing spirit. A devoted animal lover, Rynell was very artistic and loved to draw. She shared her heart and home with many beloved dogs throughout her lifetime. Those who passed before her crossed the rainbow bridge knowing her love—Taz, Morgan, Ace, Max, and others who meant the world to her. Her love for animals was not just a hobby but a defining part of who she was. She also had a fondness for houseplants, caring for them with the same gentleness and attentiveness she showed in all areas of her life. Her laugh was unforgettable—full, warm, and capable of lifting the spirits of anyone who heard it.

In later years, Rynell shared her life with her husband, PJ Fleckenstein, with whom she found deep love and companionship. They began dating on June 21, 2008, and were married on January 12, 2021, building a meaningful and loving life together in Aurora."

She is lovingly survived by her husband, Paul "PJ" Fleckenstein of Aurora, SD; her daughter, Kari Morris Son in law Garrett of Minot, ND; her cherished companion, Boseph; her mother, Lois Berger of Dickinson, ND; her sisters, Lynette (Harlan) Thiel of Cheyenne, Wyoming and Shelly (Rod) Mills of Nampa, Idaho; and her nieces Courtney Ficek, Fargo, ND, Kae Lee Thiel, Florida, Nephew Eloy Ficek, Minot, ND.

She is preceded in death by her father, Edward Berger; her stepmother, Gladys Berger; her beloved dogs—Taz, Morgan, Ace, and Max; her best friend, Melinda Johnson; and many treasured furry friends who brought joy to her life.

Rynell will be remembered for her compassion, her creativity, and the way her laughter could make any day brighter. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her. May Rynell's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.