Janice D. Bierle

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Tuesday, May 21, 2024
at the Scotchman Living Center in Philip at the age of 86

Janice D. (Madsen) Bierle was born on June 12, 1937, to Harvey and Pearl (Illian) Madsen. Although being an only child, she was raised with several cousins from the Illian and Haddock families as they were all in the Midland area and very close in age. She attended Midland School and graduated in 1955. She attended Huron College and obtained a teaching degree from there.

She was united in marriage to James Bierle on June 8, 1958. After they were married, they lived in Rapid City where Jani taught grade school for two years while Jim finished college. To this union two children were born: Kim and Kory. They moved back to Midland so Jim could teach and they both could help on the ranch and raise their family.

She worked tirelessly in helping her mom and dad keep the homestead yard in presentable condition and processing the usual bountiful production of Harvey’s garden. Jani took very seriously the role of hosting the various clubs, circles, and groups that she was part of and a friendly competition existed among her and her mother, mother-in-law Margurite, aunts Elsie Haddock and Marie Illian as to who could put on the most tasty, well presented meal.

Having been afflicted with polio as a young child and as the result of getting overheated one hot summer day when young, Jani spent most of her outside time later in life in the evenings and in the fall, winter, and spring. Part of this was being active in the cutting and delivering numerous cords of firewood. This also helped the family to take several vacations that she thoroughly enjoyed. Even later in life she and Jim would take bus tours around the country that were most enjoyable.

She also had a great interest in local history and families. She cultivated this by being involved with the Midland Pioneer Museum as hostess for many years. She loved listening to the stories that were connected to the various items brought in by the families of the area and cataloging them into the inventory of the museum.

Her final years were spent in the Philip Nursing Home as dementia started to take its toll. Jani loved to sit and listen to music, usually with an upbeat tempo and would tap her toe in time and often dance with anyone who would join her. The family is so grateful for the tender loving care she received there.

Jani is survived by her two children Kim of Pierre and Midland and Kory with his wife Robin of Midland, and their three children, Kruse and his wife Andrea of Midland, Sage and her Fiancé Herbie O’Daniel of Midland, and Bailey of Hermosa. She was proceeded in death by her husband James, her parents Harvey and Pearl Madsen, and her Illian cousins James, Donnie, and Anita.

Memorial Services will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 24, 2024 at Open Bible Church in Midland with Pastor Randy Brock officiating.

Interment will follow at the Midland Cemetery.

Service Details

MEMORIAL SERVICE
Monday, June 24, 2024 - 10:00 a.m.
Open Bible Church
Midland, South Dakota

OFFICIATING
Pastor Randy Brock

MUSIC
Scotti Block - Prelude Pianist
Marlis Doud - Postlude Pianist
Congregational Hymns
“In The Garden”
“Amazing Grace”

USHERS
Scott Jones - Cody Jones

INTERMENT
Midland Cemetery
Midland, South Dakota

Guest Book

Kim, Kory and all the Family-
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Jan as being sweet and caring and always having the time to stop and visit. I know you will miss her as a Mom and Grandmother. Im sure you have many good memories to hold on to. She is happy in Heaven with Jim now. You will see them again one day. Prayers God will hold you close in the days ahead.

   ~ Julie McLaughlin Midland (5/28/2024)
I'm sorry for your loss. A mothers love is a big hole that is hard to fill.
   ~ Dennis Eliason Rapid City, SD (5/25/2024)
Prayers and Sympathy to Jani's family. May she rest in peace.
   ~ Jack & LaVona Kirkpatrick Hayes, SD (5/27/2024)
Bierle family, many tears come reading Jani’s obituary, she was simply the best!!! Her knowledge of the area was so fun to listen to as it just rolled from her. Tending to her flowers, gardens and loving her family was her whole life. She is free now and at home. You took such great care of her, always remember that. Prayers and hugs
   ~ Barb Petoske Sioux Falls (5/23/2024)

Flowers

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Cody and Audrey and Erica and Clara
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PHS TLC and Board of Directors
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The Scotchman Living Center Team
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Dakota Country Pharmacy
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Mike and Debbie; Cassidy and Cassidy; Chauncey and Dani; and Wyatt and Emily
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The Hancock Cousins: Bruce, Wanda, Lauri, Becca, Pearl, and Bob
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The Congregation at Open Bible Church
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Midland Pioneer Museum
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Jerry and Joy
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Midland Community Fire Protection District and Midland Volunteer Fire Department