Bertha M. 'Bert' Soper, age 80, of Hot Springs, SD passed away December 8, 2008 at Rapid City Regional Hospice House in Rapid City, SD.

Bertha was the daughter of Alfred and Margaret Dieckmann. She was born October 5, 1928 in Hebron, NE. On June 1, 1946 she married William L. 'Bud' Soper. They had three children.

Upon graduation in 1946 from Harrison NE High School, Bud and Bert moved to Andrews, NE to start their family. They relocated in 1954 to Grand Teton National Park, WY. Bert found herself very active with park functions, bowling, cards, camping and baking. In 1967 Bud, Bert and family transferred to Wind Cave National Park, SD. Bert enjoyed working retail in Hot Springs for many years. She loved spending time in her garden and flower beds.

She was preceded in death by her husband, 'Bud', and two brothers.


Bert is survived by two sons, David Soper of Hot Springs; Kelly Soper of The Longview, WA; daughter, Penny Wager of Hot Springs; five grandchildren, Davonna Eisenbraun; Travis Soper; Shea Zeller; Melissa Mokler; Lindsi Zeller; six great-grandchildren, Jake Tackett; Theila Eisenbraun; David Eisenbraun; Graci Soper; Cali Mokler and William Zeller.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 11, 2008 at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 12, 2008 at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs with Rev. Peter Dahlberg officiating. Committal services will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 12, 2008 at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

A memorial has been established in Bert's name to benefit the Hot Springs Humane Society.

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