Richard Lee Pederson

Richard Lee Pederson, fondly known as "Dick," was born on March 17, 1947, and passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, in Watertown, South Dakota. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work and dedication that he cherished throughout his life.

Dick completed his education at Clark High School before serving his country with honor in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1969. Following his military service, he returned to the family farm near Clark, where he farmed diligently until selling the land in 1979. This pivotal moment led the Pederson family to Northern California, where Dick pursued a career as a water and wastewater operator, a profession he remained dedicated to until retiring in 2007. In 1985, searching for new opportunities, the family made another move to Southern California, marking the next chapter in Dick’s life.

In 2007, after dedicating many years to his work and life in California, Dick returned to his roots in South Dakota, making his home in Garden City with his second wife, Mary Jo. The couple spent several winters in Texas, creating lasting memories until Mary Jo's passing in 2017. In the last few years of his life, Dick found companionship with a special friend, Bev, whom he met in Texas.

Dick is survived by his beloved son, Travis Pederson, as well as many lifelong friends (Dick never met a stranger, just someone he hadn't become friends with yet!), and several cousins who have shared in his journey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Shirley Pederson, two sons, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who shaped his early years.

A Celebration of Life honoring Dick will be held on December 2, 2025, at Furness Funeral Home in Clark, South Dakota. Friends and family are invited to gather from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM as they pay tribute to a man whose life was defined by his unwavering spirit and the numerous connections he made along the way. Casual dress is requested.

In lieu of flowers, the Pederson family requests that memorial donations be made to the Clark County 4H program or the Children’s Miracle Network.

Clark County 4H:

SDSU Extension Clark County Office
200 N. Commercial St.
P.O. Box 294
Clark, SD 57225