Obituary of Kenneth Edward Voigt

Kenneth Edward Voigt, 78, passed away on 09/25/2023. Ken was born in Avon, SD, to Milton and Doris (Hinckley) Voigt on 07/19/1945. He joined the South Dakota National Guard in 1962 and graduated from Avon Public School in 1963. After graduating he attended basic training in Ft Ord, CA, marking the beginning of a long career in the military. Ken was married twice in his life. He was married to Doris Dummer from 1970 until 1977 and had one child, Monica. He then married Sharon Fernau in 1978 until 2008 and had a son, Dean.

After graduating basic training Ken worked at Jurrens repair as a mechanic for several years before attending Southern State College, in Springfield, SD. While in college, he played football and got a degree in teaching. He taught school in Naper, NE, before transitioning to a full-time position in the South Dakota National Guard. A notable highlight of his career was his acceptance into the “Captains to Europe” program which led him to be stationed in Baumholder, Germany. After three years he returned to the United States and settled in Armour, SD. He worked as the training NCO in Platte, SD before transitioning to the role of a recruiter for the Army National Guard.  He continued to serve in this position until his retirement, amassing an impressive 33 years of service.  His commitment to his country and his accomplishments in the military, including achieving the rank of Captain and earning the Recruiter of the Year award, are indicative of his dedication and pride in his service to the nation.

During his retirement, Ken spent his time restoring Studebakers, watching the Minnesota Twins and substitute teaching. At the time of his passing, he was residing at the Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home in Hot Springs, SD.

Ken is survived by his daughter Monica (Jon) Rotert, Bridgewater, SD, son Dean Voigt (Amanda), Tea, SD, sister Jan Wagner, Sun City, AZ, Bev Archambeau, Sturgis, SD, Brenda Voigt, Rapid City, SD, brothers Wally Voigt and Bruce Voigt, Avon, SD, and grandchildren, Kelsie and Garrett Rotert, Kylia and Kayden Voigt. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Barb.

A private family burial will take place at the Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, South Dakota, on November 3rd.

An open house to celebrate Ken’s life will be held on 12/02/2023 from 11:00-1:00 at the Blue Moon in Armour, SD.