Ralph S. 'Butch' Dryden, age 60, of Oelrichs, SD, passed away Thursday, January 31, 2013, at Rapid City Hospice of the Black Hills.

He was born July 12, 1952, in Chadron, NE. The Dryden family lived at the Milligan place during the time Butch was born until 1958 when they settled on a ranch north of Oelrichs. He graduated in 1970, and attended Chadron State College for two years. In November 1979 he married Lori Allen and on June 21, 1981, a son, Tyrel James Dryden, was born. His second son, Grant Daniel Dryden was born November 23, 1982, both sons were delivered in Chadron. Ralph was in partnership with his dad and lived on the ranch up until November 17, 2012, at which time he retired and moved into Oelrichs.

He is survived by his two sons, Tyrel and Grant; oldest brother, Forrest Dean Dryden; sisters, Sandra Martinson (Dryden) and Jana Rae Martinson (Dryden) and their families, with various nieces, nephews and cousins.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Nadine Dryden, his niece, Cory Martinson, and uncle, Ted Dryden.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, February 11, 2013 at McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs with Pastor Paul Smith officiating. Following the Service a reception of family and friends will be held at the Office in Oelrichs, all are welcome.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Butch's name to benefit the Oelrichs Rodeo Association.

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.