Visitation: Visitation will be Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home in Canton, SD.
Service: Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 8, 2023 at Canton United Methodist Church
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Linda Van Bockern, age 75, died Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at Sanford USD Medical Center with her children by her side. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 8, 2023, at Canton United Methodist Church. Visitation will be Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home in Canton, SD.
Linda was born on July 16, 1948, in Canton, SD, to Dale and Dolores (Menholt) Ness. She grew up in Canton, graduating from Canton High School in 1966. She married Craig Van Bockern on June 25, 1966. The couple made their home and raised their children, Shane and Jill, in Canton.
Through the years, Linda worked at Farmers State Bank, Northern States Power, and helped her husband run Van’s Rubbish Removal after they purchased the business in 1967. The couple also became part owners of FB Mac’s. Linda was proud to give back to the community by hosting numerous benefits and fundraisers at Mac’s.
Linda was a strong, compassionate woman who loved watching her children and grandchildren compete in sports. Off the court, track, or golf course, she could be counted on for advice, support, and love. Her children were often the beneficiaries of her strong work ethic. When Shane and Nikki purchased a major “fixer-upper,” she was all in, refinishing an oak floor that hadn’t been seen in decades and taking home the woodwork to refinish it as well. She put so much effort into making sure the holidays were perfect for her family – from her décor to her delicious meals. She often hosted three Christmas gatherings per year.
In her spare time, Linda delivered Meals on Wheels, fundraised for the United Way Campaign, was a den mother and troop leader, and was a communion steward. She cherished time spent with her husband, especially fishing, hunting, or going to the cabin. She also enjoyed bowling, family vacations, camping trips, and testing her luck at the casino.
Grateful for having shared her life are her son Shane (Nikki) Van Bockern, Lake Preston, SD; daughter Jill Johnson (Jon Vedral), Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren Cole Van Bockern (fiancée Darah DeKam), Kimberly (Bailey) Schriever, and Kelsey Johnson; sisters, Deanna (Dennis) Ness Ridpath, Laurie (Henry) Huyser, Jane (Rory) Hermsen, Bonnie (Thomas) Higgins; brother, Jeff Larson; and many, many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dale Ness, Alvin Larson, and Dolores Ness Larson; husband of 56 years, Craig; and son-in-law, Chad Johnson.
So sorry to hear of her passing. She was a good friend. Will miss our Saturday morning breakfasts and our coffee dates.
Bless her heart.
Jill and Shane and families. My heart is hurting. Sending my deepest condolences and love. I’m in Kansas visiting Dawn and family and won’t make it back for moms funeral. I will be with you in spirit. ❤️🙏
Hugs and many prayers to all of you, throughout your time of loss. She was an amazing woman, we will miss her dearly..
Shane and Jill. So sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. She will be missed by many.
We send our condolences to you Craig and family. May God comfort and give you peace at this difficult time. May your memories of Linda give you sweet joy.
Sorry to read of Linda’s passing. Such a wonderful person. I am at my summer cottage in Eastern Ontario on the St. Lawrence River. God’s blessings to you all. Stay Safe and Well.
To the families of Linda she was one of a kind so sorry for your loss.
So sorry to hear. What a neat person. Sending prayer.