Arlin Devish, age 59 and formerly of Sioux Falls, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

A memorial service will take place at 3:00 PM on Monday, March 2nd, 2026, at Miller Funeral Home Downtown (507 S Main Ave). All are welcome.

Arlin was born in January of 1967 to Dale and Lois (Taylor) Devish in Winner, SD. He graduated from South Dakota School for the Deaf (SDSD) in 1986, where the friendships he developed became lifelong connections.

Over his 59 years, Arlin worked at a variety of places, including KFC, Fuji film developing, the Deaf Club, restaurants, lawn care service, and Walmart. He was always willing to help his dad around the farm, cutting and stacking firewood, helping with chores, and dad's huge garden. Arlin was a typical Devish - teasing friends, family, and even nurses with his playful spirit.

Arlin is remembered by many SDSD students for his humor and a little mischievous streak. A few times over the years, his family invited SDSD students to their farm so they could see the pigs and go on hay rides - experiences many remember fondly.

One favorite story from his school days tells of a confident senior who boasted that he could run for a touchdown against all the boys. He was quickly sacked and left lying face down. When he looked back to see who had taken him down, he was stunned to realize it was sixth-grader Arlin - his ego flattened in that unforgettable moment.

Arlin enjoyed spending time with friends, going to the Farmers Market, and playing cards at the Deaf Club. He especially enjoyed family vacations, including trips when Rita's grandchildren came along. He loved the adventures and always made sure to get a keychain souvenir.

Arlin is well remembered throughout the Deaf community for attending many weekend social nights. He valued friendships deeply and enjoyed staying connected with the community he loved.

In July 2023, Arlin moved into Leisure Living in Hartford, SD, where he played cards and did puzzles with the friends he made there. While on dialysis, he enjoyed visits with Ivy.

In December of 2025, Arlin moved into Diamond Care Center in Bridgewater, SD. He quickly settled in and made connections with the workers there, who enjoyed caring for him.

His father, Dale, shared: "Arlin was honest. He was always willing to help me or his friends. He was generous."

We take comfort in knowing that Arlin is no longer in pain, can breathe easier, and is free from the medical struggles he endured.

Arlin is survived by is father, Dale Devish, and sisters Rita (Jerry) Lawver and Karen Leehane; nieces and nephews, Jeremy (Rhonda) Anderson, Sunshine (David) Soetmelk, Rory McBride, Rachel Taylor, Austin (Ashley) Leehane; and great nieces and nephews, Haley Anderson, Vincent Taylor, Jace Anderson, Sarah and Tristen McBride, Gabriel Taylor, Blake and Jordyn Leehane.

Arlin was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Devish, and his grandparents Floyd and Lillian Taylor and Ed and Vernice Devish.

In lieu of flowers, any donations will be divided between Leisure Living and Diamond Care Center - places that provided excellent care and comfort to Arlin.