Ralph Richard Holtquist, age 77, of Custer, SD, passed away on August 13, 2016, at his residence in Custer.

Ralph was born on May 29, 1939, in Milbank, SD, to Clarence Sigfried and Avis Audrey (Bray) Holtquist. He served in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge after four years of service. Ralph was a skilled welder working for various trucking companies.

Ralph Holtquist left behind a legacy of unyielding love and strength. His biggest pride and joy was his beloved family. Ralph was a master gardener, an avid hunter and a dedicated friend. He was the type of man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone, and made it a monthly duty for years to donate to people who were less fortunate. Ralph's huge heart and desire to help others was known by all of those close to him. His laugh and smile could light up even the darkest room. May Ralph rest in peace with the Lord he loves and someday be reunited with the family members he devoted his life to.

He is survived by his wife, Tamara Ann Holtquist of Spearfish, SD; son, Daniel Ralph (Lee Ann) Holtquist of Custer, and his children, Eric Holtquist, Summer Holtquist and Xavier Holtquist; daughter, Traci Lea (Jerrell) Cummings of Austin, AR, and her children, Kaitlyn Cummings, McKenzie Cummings and Kane Cummings; son, Jeremiah Richard Holtquist of Custer; son, Zachariah Clarence (Christina) Holtquist of Clearwater, FL, and his children Harper Holtquist and baby on the way; son, Joshua Holtquist of Rapid City, SD; daughter, Meghan Lucine Holtquist of Rapid City, and her child Aiden Pickett; daughter, Audra Lynn Holtquist of Rapid City, and her child Carter Holtquist; daughter, Ashley Denise Holtquist of Spearfish, SD; deceased son, Shane Michael Holtquist's children, Chantel and Laryssa; brother, Marlin Holtquist of CA; sisters, Sharon (Charlie) Walters of Picayune, MS; and Dianne Holtquist of MN.

Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Avis; son, Shane Michael; brother, Melvin; and sister, Georgette.

Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 19, 2016, at the Custer Community Church in Custer, SD, with Rev. Dustin Bartlett officiating, military honors to follow at the Church.