Joseph Lynn Hartpence, age 68, of Custer, SD, passed away on June 15, 2014, at the Custer Regional Hospital.

Joe was born to John R. Hartpence and Elnore Olson Harpence on September 12, 1945, in Billings, MT.

Joe was a loving father, not only to his own children, but to 40 foster children over the years. He was very involved in youth outreach, and most recently he was involved in helping seniors through the Senior Companion Program. Joe was always willing to help those in need.

Joe loved life and lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Joe had a unique sense of humor and was an avid practical joker, who guaranteed a smile out of the most gruff among us. He loved people and will be sorely missed.

Joe was a member of the Baha'i Faith, and a longtime Chairman of Custer Baha'is. He was active in Community Action and a Board Representative for Custer County.

Survivors include wife, Bonnie Hartpence of Custer; son, Sam (Tiffany) Hartpence of Lander, WY; daughters, Nicki (Jim) Goucher of Potlatch, ID; Anya Hartpence of Brookings, SD; Kendra (Chad) Spear of Sturgis, SD; Jesse (Andy) Roltgen of Westbend, WI; Charlie Hartpence of Rapid City, SD; brothers, William Conklin Hartpence of IN; Charles Arnold Hartpence of IL; sisters, Lynelle Brown of CO; Eunice Z. Hartpence of CO; Sylvia E. Morrison of Custer; grandchildren, Alden, Chase, Tyler, Tim, Emma, Matthew, Gavin, Jacob, Dakota and Damian.

Joseph was preceded in death by his son, Erik; his parents, John and Elnore; and his sister, Thaylia.

Celebration of Joe's life was held at 3:00p.m., Tuesday, June 17, 2014, at the Custer Cemetery in Custer.

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