John C. Reisdorff Jr.

John Charles Reisdorff, Jr., 66, of Harrold, South Dakota, passed away at his home on February 18, 2026.

A tribute to John’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Chahl’s Bar and Grill in Highmore. Burial will take place at the Highmore Cemetery.

John was born on March 24, 1959, to John and Virginia Reisdorff. He graduated from Hitchcock-Tulare High School in 1977 and went on to live a life devoted to hard work, farming, and helping others.

In 1982, John married Beverly Ratzlaff. Through their marriage, he welcomed Beverly’s daughter, Becky Engel, into his life as his own. Together, they had two children, Samuel Jon Reisdorff and Elizabeth Ann (Reisdorff) Richmond. John later shared his life with Laura Johnson.

In 1985, John and his family moved to Clark, South Dakota, where he worked for Jim Oris for many years. In 1990, he moved to Highmore to work for Jim Dittman. He remained in Highmore-Harrold for the rest of his life, building his years around farming, ranching, and the land he loved.

John found joy in his daily work — in the feedlot with his cows, behind the wheel of a grain truck, or welding and building projects in the farm lots. He was happiest when he was busy. Over the years, he put up hay, worked cattle, ranched, and built countless creations with his hands. Always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need, John was the kind of man who would drop what he was doing to help a friend.

He had a special place in his heart for his cats, Orangee and Squirt, and took great pride in caring for all his animals. Known for his strong work ethic, his love of storytelling, and his great sense of humor, John could fill a room with laughter — especially with one of his famous “Little Johnny” jokes.

John is survived by his girlfriend, Laura Johnson; his daughters, Rebecca (Tory) Engel and Elizabeth (Mike) Richmond; his grandchildren, Melody and Trisha Reisdorff, Evan, Ashley, Owen, and Amy Engel; his great-grandson, Cyrus Gartamaker; his sisters, Marsha (John) Dahl and Pam Horst; his niece, Jamie Zertuche, his great-nephew, Future Horst-Zertuche; and his lifelong friend, Donnie Genzler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Virginia (Lake) Reisdorff; his beloved son, Samuel Jon Reisdorff; and his infant brother, Clifford.

He will be remembered as a hardworking farmer, a devoted father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man always ready to lend a helping hand. His legacy of hard work, generosity, and laughter will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Memorial cards can be directed to Liz Richmond, 621 E. 5th Ave, Mitchell, SD 57301.

Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with John’s arrangements.