Vicki L. Jerde
Vicki Lynn Jerde, 66, beloved mother and cherished friend, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024, at Avera St. Luke’s Hospital in Aberdeen.
Vicki Lynn Jerde was born on October 6, 1957, to Henry and Evonne (Kiesz) Hopfinger in Aberdeen, SD. She grew up in Aberdeen, graduated from Central High School in 1975, and went on to earn first an associates degree then later a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Northern State College (now Northern State University). During her college years, she worked as a cook at a nursing home.
On May 13, 1978, Vicki married Scott Honeychurch in Aberdeen. They had one son, Lee Honeychurch. On April 30, 1988, she married Lloyd Jerde in Aberdeen with whom she shared 36 years of loving matrimony. They had two daughters, Jeanna and Kallyn Jerde. Vicki began working at RAM Housing Specialists in 1983, where she held roles as a HUD specialist and lead computer programmer. She took great pride in maintaining the office's success and was instrumental in its operations.
Vicki was deeply loved and admired for her caring nature, sharp intellect, and unwavering dedication to her family. She was a protective and nurturing mother who always put her family’s needs first, offering support and encouragement for her children to pursue their dreams. One of Vicki’s greatest joys was her only grandchild, Indigo. She eagerly anticipated watching Indigo grow up, with dreams of spoiling her and sharing countless moments.
An avid lover of the outdoors, Vicki found joy and solace in fishing, hiking, and immersing herself in nature. She had a profound appreciation for the beauty of Yellowstone, Glacier National Park and South Dakota’s own Black Hills, often taking family trips to these majestic places. When she was younger Vicki enjoyed being active, playing volleyball, water skiing, swimming and ice skating. She continued her love of sports into her daughter's lives by coaching several of their teams. She also loved to take photos of her family, pets and adventures.
At home, Vicki was known for her love of cats and dogs, reading and her enjoyment of TV soap operas. She found relaxation in these activities, often accompanied by her cherished pets who brought her exceptional comfort and joy. Vicki was also a skilled cook, delighting her family with her culinary talents and creating many cherished meals and memories. She loved playing card and board games with family and friends, where her competitive spirit and warm laughter made each gathering special. Vicki’s feisty spirit could only be matched by her fingernails, which she enjoyed painting in neon colors.
Vicki is survived by her mother, Evonne Hopfinger; her husband, Lloyd Jerde; her children: Lee Honeychurch, Jeanna (Thomas) Schinderling, and Kallyn (Matthew) Jerde-Freidel; her grandchild, Indigo Schinderling; her siblings, David Hopfinger and Lori Coy; her brother-in-law, Steve Cox; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Henry Hopfinger; her infant daughter, Jenna Jerde; her sister, Sheryl Cox; her ex-husband, Scott Honeychurch; her brother-in-law, Albert Coy; and her daughter-in-law Megan Bierman-Honeychurch.
Vicki’s legacy of love and care will continue to inspire and guide her family. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew her.