Nelda Schwader, 61 passed away on October 18, 2020 at her sister’s home near De Smet, SD. She was welcomed into her eternal home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.  Her strong will to live and her unwavering faith were a testament to all who knew her.  Funeral services will begin at 11 am on Thursday, October 22 at Sun Prairie Baptist Church, rural Salem, SD.  Visitation with family present will begin one hour prior.  For the health and safety of all, please respect social distancing, wear a face mask if you are able and please stay home if you are sick.

Nelda Schwader was born on December 15, 1958 in Madison, SD to Robert and Elaine (Koepsell) Schwader.  She grew up in the Howard area and graduated from Howard High School in 1977.  She then went on to receive her associate’s degree from Southeast Technical Institute and worked in different capacities in the Sioux Falls Area.

Nelda had a zest for life.  Her enthusiasm and dedication to her work, bible study and life groups, family and friendships were an inspiration.   With her dog and constant companion, Jack, always by her side she took such joy in all she did.  Even as her battle with cancer waged on, she remained positive and firmly grounded in her faith.  Her ultimate desire through her life’s journey and the legacy she would want to leave would  be that God be glorified.

Nelda is survived by:  her siblings, Dianne (Jim) Larson of De Smet, John (Dani) Schwader of Winfred, and Lois (Mike) Sebert of Howard; many cousins who were like siblings to her; uncle and aunts, Lowell (Marlene) Koepsell and Mary Ann Schwader; several nephews and nieces; and Laura Thornhill who she considered a daughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents, aunt and uncles, Richard “Buck” and Trudy Schwader and Jim Schwader and cousin Richard Schwader.

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