Earl Faye Ellwanger, Jr., 55, of Provo, SD died August 2, 2007 at Rapid City Regional Hospital in Rapid City.

Earl was born September 2, 1951 in Isabel, SD to Earl F. Ellwanger, Sr. and Coletta (Boeding) Ellwanger. Earl proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1969 until his honorable discharge in 1972. He was awarded a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, a national Defense Medal, and two O/S Service Medals. Earl was a sharp shooter and an expert rifleman.

Earl worked as a welder in the manufacturing and construction industries. He was a fun, wild, and kind hearted man who lived fast but took time to enjoy fishing, hunting, cars and motorcycles. He took pride in caring for his mother as well as a variety of animals and he had many close friends.

Earl is survived by his two sons, Brian (Shari) Ellwanger of Longmont, CO; Rick (Susan) Ellerton of Spearfish, SD; mother, Coletta Ellwanger of Hot Springs, SD; fiancé, Diane Mitz of Provo; and three grandchildren.

Earl is preceded in death by his father, Earl Ellwanger, Sr. and his brother, Carl Ellwanger.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 am, Friday, August 10, 2007 at the Custer Lutheran Fellowship in Custer, SD with Pastor Kent Narum officiating. Burial will take place 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 10, 2007 at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD. Military honors will be provided by the VFW Post 1273 of Rapid City, SD.

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