Argene "Gene" A. Kirschenmann, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, peacefully passed away at his home, surrounded by family, on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Gene was 83 years old.

Argene A. Kirschenmann was born on June 19, 1942, to Christ and Katherine (Rudolph) Kirschenmann in Aberdeen, South Dakota. He attended public school in Aberdeen until his family relocated to Sioux Falls in 1959. Gene graduated from Washington High School in Sioux Falls in 1960.

After graduation, Gene enlisted in the United States Air Force in February 1960 and was honorably discharged in July 1962 in Rapid City, South Dakota.

On October 13, 1969, Gene married Helen Matthaei in Sioux Falls. The couple raised three children, Corey, Chad, and Tracie, in Sioux Falls.

Gene worked as a route sales representative for Sara Lee and Earthgrains for 25 years before retiring. He also owned Mini Critters for about five years.

Gene was an active member of the Sioux Falls Lions Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing, but his greatest passion was spending time with his family.

Gene is survived by his wife of 56 years, Helen Kirschenmann, of Sioux Falls; his sons, Corey (Nikole Osman) Kirschenmann and Chad (Julie) Kirschenmann, both of Sioux Falls; and his daughter, Tracie Penner of Minneapolis, MN. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Isabel, Cash, Cameron, Jessica, Josh, Ashley, and Shawn; his sister, Shirley Halveson of Texas; and his brothers, Harley Kirschenmann of Denver, CO, and Larry (Jackie) Kirschenmann of Minneapolis, MN.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Christ and Katherine Kirschenmann; his brother, Lloyd Kirschenmann; brother-in-law, Tom Halveson; and sister-in-law, Sandra Kirschenmann.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Miller Funeral Home – downtown, 507 S. Main Avenue, Sioux Falls, South Dakota.