Waldemar (Wally) Klawiter Jr., 92, passed away peacefully at Ava's House in Sioux Falls, SD on Saturday, July 4, 2026

Visitation will begin at 2:00 pm, followed by a Time of Remembrance and Sharing at 3:00 pm on Friday, July 17, 2026 at Miller Funeral Home (Downtown Location) 507 S. Main Ave, Sioux Falls, SD.

Click here to watch live

Wally Klawiter was born, raised, and lived most of his life in his beloved city Sioux Falls, SD. Wally graduated from Washington High School and
spent three semesters in college before leaving to serve in the Army in Korea. After his discharge, Wally earned a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree in mathematics, and ultimately a PhD in physics. Wally taught math and physics at the University of Sioux Falls for 47 years, retiring in 2007.

Wally had many passions, chief among them were running, golfing and science. Wally ran innumerable long-distance races, including thirteen marathons, and he was the first University of Sioux Falls cross country coach, where he formed deep, personal connections with many of his runners, some of whom referred to themselves as "Wally's Gang." Additionally, Wally organized and directed many road races in Sioux Falls. During golf season, Wally played regularly with his friends, at one point having a handicap in single digits. He twice won the over seventy division at the state golf tournament.

When not looking through a telescope at stars or talking about significant developments in physics, Wally read voraciously about science. Towards the end of his academic life, Wally was particularly interested in new information about consciousness and the brain. Long after Wally couldn't read well, he sat with a science journal on his lap, with other science books or magazines nearby for grabbing. Wally was a man of deep convictions and principles, with a kind and caring nature. He believed in the importance of helping people and being engaged in community.

For many years Wally was involved in (and was former chair of) the South Dakota Academy of Science. He was instrumental in organizing his high school reunions, was a mentor and friend to many runners and students and had many lifelong friendships. Wally also donated to the First Tee non-profit golf program, teaching young people to love the sport as much as he did, served in the Stevens Ministries, an organization that trains people to be peer "counselors," and on a refugee committee that helped recent refuges from other countries. He had an unending commitment to understanding and supporting anyone who could benefit from his involvement.

Above all, Wally adored the women in his life—his wife Jan, daughters Annie and Meg, and grand-daughter Greta and his dear siblings, whom he cherished beyond measure.

Wally is preceded in death by his sister Mary and stepsister Sue. He is survived by  his wife of 66 years, Jan, his two daughters, Annie and Meg, his granddaughter Greta, great-granddaughter, Penelope, three siblings, Kathy, Rick, and Fred, and countless nieces,
nephews and in-laws.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to "The Banquet" in Sioux Falls, located at 900 E. 8th St. Sioux Falls, SD 57103.