Gene Grossenburg

A memorial service for Gene Grossenburg, age 95, of Winner, SD, was held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Winner Methodist Church. Mason Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Gene was born on May 25, 1930, to C.J. and Jessie Blanche Grossenburg in Winner, SD. After he graduated from Winner High School in 1949, Gene began a career which would ultimately span five decades, working with the family John Deere business at Grossenburg Implement. In 1949, Gene met LaWayna Swaney during high school in Winner, SD, and they were married in September 1951. Gene and LaWayna had four children—Brad, Barry, Jolenne, and Janelle. In 1951, Gene was drafted into the Korean War and returned home as an American hero and a new father to Brad. He received a purple heart and a bronze star while serving in the Korean War. In 1951, after he returned home, he grew the John Deere business until retirement. In May 1988 he married Patricia Scholz. Gene’s family unit expanded, and he pursued his passions in life. Gene enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in the Black Hills where he enjoyed his horses and the outdoors. He also enjoyed spending time with his family. Gene had a zest for life which created a ripple effect on so many people. His storytelling ability and bear hugs will never be forgotten.

Gene passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the Winner Regional Hospital in Winner, SD.

He is survived by his wife Patricia; his children, Brad (Candace) of Sioux Falls, SD, Barry (Marilyn) of Winner, SD, Jolenne (Dean) Pribyl of Lincoln, NE, and Janelle (Ron) Farris of Rapid City, SD; and by Patricia’s children Lawrence (Tammy) Scholz, Barbara (Duane) Labahn, and the late Cindy (Kyle) Wagner, all of Winner, SD. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife LaWayna; sister Norma Mae; and parents C.J. and Blanche.