IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Richard "Dick"

Richard "Dick" Bohy Profile Photo

Bohy

Sep 6, 1940 — Apr 5, 2026

Sioux Falls

Obituary

Richard L. "Dick" Bohy, 85, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, at Ava's House, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, devotion, and enduring love for his family.

Dick was born on September 6, 1940, in Burwell, Nebraska, to Robert Bohy and Isla (Ferguson) Bohy, both of whom preceded him in death. A special influence in Dick's life was his stepfather, Herbert Emerton, who served as a steady father figure and role model. Herbert's guidance and example helped shape Dick's character and values.  He is survived by his three brothers, David, Tom, and Max Emerton.

Married in Omaha, Nebraska, on August 26, 1967, Dick shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jane (Diercks) Bohy. Together, they built a life rooted in partnership, loyalty, and unwavering commitment.

Dick was a proud and devoted father to his son, Ryan (Kimberlee), and daughter, Allison. He was a deeply loving grandfather to Addison Bohy, Victoria "Tori" Hilt (husband Ross), and Dylan Tams (wife Karli), and a cherished great-grandfather to Myla, who brought him immense joy and never failed to put a sparkle in his eye, even in his final days. Nothing meant more to Dick than time spent with his family, whether celebrating life's milestones or enjoying its simplest moments.

A man of many passions, Dick had a lifelong love for golf, a game he shared with and passed down to his children. Even after he was no longer able to play, he found joy riding along on the course, sharing stories and laughter. His love for baseball began in childhood, when he faithfully listened to Brooklyn Dodgers broadcasts. That passion endured throughout his life, following the team to Los Angeles and remaining steadfast to the very end, highlighted by watching one final Dodgers victory on the afternoon of his passing.

Dick was also a devoted fan of Nebraska Cornhuskers football, with a particular love for the program during the legendary Tom Osborne era. Saturdays in the fall were often centered around Husker football, a tradition that brought him great joy.

Dick also had an extraordinary passion for travel and exploration. He visited all 50 states and every one of the 50 most populous cities in the United States, ultimately reaching 92 of the top 100. His travels included 20 national parks, reflecting his deep appreciation for the country's natural beauty. A devoted baseball fan, he made it a personal mission to visit every current Major League Baseball stadium, as well as many historic ballparks that are no longer standing. These journeys were a source of great pride and joy, and he cherished the memories made along the way with family and friends.

Dick's professional life was marked by vision, leadership, and service—qualities grounded in his academic foundation. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and English from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a Master of Arts in Educational Psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. His education shaped his thoughtful, people-centered leadership style and informed his ability to build, guide, and inspire teams throughout his career.

In 1974, Dick was given an opportunity to serve as Director of the Sioux Valley School of Nursing, where he oversaw budget administration and worked to expand enrollment. In 1976, he was promoted to Director of Nursing for the entire hospital, becoming one of the few non-nurse administrators in the country to hold such a role.

During his tenure, Dick played a pivotal role in shaping the high standards of nursing practice that continue to define healthcare in the region today. He was instrumental in launching both the hospital's marketing department and its social work program. He also witnessed and contributed to the early development of Sioux Valley Hospital as the region's Children's Miracle Network facility, including involvement in its first telethon.

A forward-thinking leader, Dick was among the early visionaries who recognized the importance of organized philanthropy in healthcare. His efforts helped lay the groundwork for what is now the Sanford Health Foundation, which continues to support healthcare initiatives across the system.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dick generously gave his time and expertise by serving on, and often chairing, numerous local, regional, and national boards. His leadership was defined by integrity, humility, and a steady, thoughtful approach that earned him the respect of colleagues and community members alike.

He will be remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast values, and the example he set through a life well lived. His legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched throughout his career and community service.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation, with family present, will take place from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Monday, April 13th, 2026, at Miller Funeral Home - Southside Chapel (7400 S Minnesota Ave) in Sioux Falls, SD. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, at the Sanford Event Barn (2510 East 54th St N) in Sioux Falls, SD. Following the service, guests are invited to stay and enjoy a time of food and fellowship.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Visitation

April
13

Monday

Miller Funeral Home - Southside Chapel

7400 S Minnesota Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57108

5:00 - 7:00 pm

Funeral Service

April
14

Tuesday

Starts at 11:30 am

Guestbook

Visits: 1

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