Alta Mae Biever, 100, Hot Springs, SD, died Thursday, February 25, 2010, at Castle Manor Nursing Home, Hot Springs.

Alta Mae was born in Edgemont, SD, on April 28, 1909, to Anna Amanda (Adams) and Charles Henry Petro. They were one of Fall River County's pioneer families and Alta Mae lived her entire life in Fall River County. She attended country schools until boarding in Edgemont for her early high school years. The family then moved into Edgemont where she graduated. In her childhood one of the highlights of the year was the annual trip from the ranch near Ardmore to Hot Springs and "The Plunge" – a two day trip by horse and wagon.

After graduation she married E. Jerome (Jerry) Biever September 5, 1927, and they moved to Hot Springs in 1930. In 1933 their only son, Edward Eugene (Gene) was born.

Alta Mae was known as one of the nicest women people ever knew. Her heart and home were open to all and often the host of many family gatherings. She could always be found with cookies and cake ready for any visitors.

Their tiny home was filled with love and during Gene's high school years she allowed one of his best friends to live with them while he finished school. Following those years she also had two nephews, Keith and Duane Biever, live with them so they could also finish their high schooling. She was known as one of the most enthusiastic 'band mothers' always ready to go anywhere during the many years Gale Hilgenberg was band director.

Alta Mae loved to crochet and until her eyesight failed her about two years ago she always had a doily in the making. She claimed she was never bored and even after she could no longer crochet she loved to read and visit with people.

Alta Mae was the quintessential 'lady behind her husband' always supporting and helping with his every activity. In order to help Gene go to medical school she went to work at the Marshall Wells store and Raben Lumber Company rushing home during the noon hour to iron her brother-in-law's shirts.

She was an active member of the United Churches until moving to the Assisted Living and later to Castle Manor Nursing Home.

Surviving are son, Gene (Jeanne) Biever; sister, Beulah Ione McKay; four grandchildren and four step-grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren and nineteen nieces and nephews, fourteen of whom are still living.

Memorial Services will be held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 4, 2010, at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs with Pastor Morris Nelson officiating.

A memorial has been established in Alta Mae's name and may be sent through the family.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences may be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.