Eda Mae Bode, 92, passed away June 1, 2010 at the Wedgewood Living Center in Custer, SD, where she had resided for the past two years. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Bode, in 1982, brothers Harold and Russell Schmidt, and sisters Margaret, Mildred, Opal and Ruby.

Eda Mae was born July 7, 1917 at Searsboro, IA to Henry and Anna Routier Schmidt. Her father died when Eda Mae was three, and a few years later her mother moved to the Chamberlain, SD area with her two sons and four daughters. Eda Mae graduated from Chamberlain High as did all six of her children, and a hairdressing and cosmetology school in Minneapolis, MN. She married George Bode in 1936, and they moved to a farm in Brule County in 1937.

Among Eda Mae's many interests and talents were all aspects of farm wife and homemaker, vocal music, playing several instruments by ear, and work in motels, restaurants, a bakery, and a clothing store. Later in life she began painting in oils, water colors, and other mediums. Many of her paintings were sold at the SD State Game Lodge. She also edited and wrote substantial parts of a book on the history of Brule County. She was active for many years in the Chamberlain Senior Center.

Eda Mae is survived by sons Jerry (Janet), Larry (Jennifer), Robert, and Richard (Tracy) Bode and daughters Dianne Wegner (Henry, deceased) and Betty Shaw (Patrick). Her grandchildren include Jill Bode (Eric Klinkowski) Jay Bode (Kathleen Tom), Rock Bode, Landa Lawrence (Wade), Forrest Bode, Tammy Williams, Tory Petersen (Tracy), Trent Reiner (Deb), Carrie (Todd Parker), Zachary Bode, and Adrianne Bode.

Great grandchildren include Molly Williams, Grayson and Sierra Lawrence, Michelle, Tyler, and Sage Petersen.

Eda Mae was buried next to husband George in the Chamberlain Cemetery. Her request was that any memorials be directed to the Chamberlain Senior Center.

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