In the heartland of America, amidst the rolling plains and vibrant communities of South Dakota, the life and legacy of U.S. Veteran Richard “Dick” Cook are celebrated. At the age of 80, Dick Cook, a cherished resident of Harrisburg, SD, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service and community spirit. He breathed his last at the renowned Sanford/USD Medical Center, known for its dedicated care to veterans and residents alike.
As the people of South Dakota gather to honor their local hero, a Prayer Service is arranged, reflecting the deep spiritual and communal bonds that characterize this region. The service is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 4:00 pm at the Miller Funeral Home Southside Chapel, located at 7400 S. Minnesota Ave., Sioux Falls, SD. The Cook family will be present from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm to warmly greet the community that Dick was so proud to be a part of.
Miller Funeral Home
The bond between Richard “Dick” Cook and South Dakota runs deep, woven through years of dedication as a U.S. veteran and cherished community member. Raising a family in Harrisburg, a quaint yet progressive town known for its strong community ties and commitment to honoring veterans, Dick embodied the values of leadership and service that define this area.
The state of South Dakota takes immense pride in its veterans. With a network of support for military families and programs designed to honor those who have served, the community’s involvement in activities related to national defense and veteran affairs is a testament to their unwavering support. The significance of these efforts is evident in the way local services honor veterans’ contributions, making places like Sanford/USD Medical Center and St. Michael Cemetery pivotal in these remembrances.
Miller Funeral Home, a longstanding establishment in Sioux Falls, plays a key role in ensuring that local traditions of paying homage to the departed are well respected. They provide services tailored to the needs and traditions of South Dakota families. Through their sympathy store, individuals can order flower arrangements and plant memorial trees in memory of Dick, further nurturing South Dakota’s green landscapes and commemorating the lives of those who served.
Private burial services are a poignant reminder of Dick’s quiet strength and the enduring promise of peace—a privilege his service granted generations. The private family burial will be held at the serene St. Michael Cemetery, a place known for its tranquil beauty and dedication to preserving the memories of South Dakota’s honorable figures.
Harrisburg, a vibrant hub within Minnehaha County, is encapsulated by its commitment to nurturing a communal environment. Known for its family-friendly amenities and passion for supporting local agriculture and crafts, Harrisburg honors its residents by maintaining a close-knit communal identity, rich with events and traditions that celebrate life’s milestones.
Richard “Dick” Cook’s passing resonates with the entire South Dakota community, reflecting the shared values of honor, service, and community well-being. As friends and community members reflect on Dick Cook’s impactful life and dedication to public service, they are reminded of the very essence of South Dakotan ideals—unity and support amid life’s challenges and celebrations.
As South Dakota extends its heartfelt condolences to the Cook family, the state’s landscape, people, and spirit stand as a testament to the lasting legacy of Dick Cook and all veterans who call this great state home. The life of Richard “Dick” Cook serves as a guiding light for future generations who continue to cherish and uphold the values of this illustrious region.