William Paul Severson, age 86, passed away peacefully in Sioux Falls, SD, on August 24, 2025.

The family will be present for visitation beginning at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 29, 2025, followed by a memorial service at 3:00 PM at Miller Funeral Home – Westside Chapel, 6200 W. 41st St., Sioux Falls, SD.

Bill was born on October 24, 1938, to Gust and Edith (Ekern) Severson. One of seven children, he was raised on the family farm near Gary, SD, and graduated from Gary High School. It was during these early years that Bill developed a strong work ethic, a love for the outdoors, and a deep devotion to family.

On a blind date, Bill met Alda Bruinsma, a nursing student who would become the love of his life. The two were married on November 26, 1960, and made their lifelong home in Sioux Falls, where they shared 64 years together.

Bill attended Augustana College, studying criminal justice, and began his career at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in 1959. He went on to graduate from the DCI Academy in 1976 and the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, in 1982. In 1986, he received specialized training with the U.S. Marshals Service in Genco, Georgia. Over the course of his distinguished career, Bill rose to the rank of Major before retiring from the penitentiary in 1994.

Following his retirement, Bill pursued a second career in golf course management at Elmwood and Prairie Green golf courses, beginning in 1995. He took great pride in his work and cherished the friendships he made along the way.

Bill was active in his community, coaching and officiating youth baseball, softball and basketball for many years.

Outside of work, Bill enjoyed traveling with Alda, especially on cruises, and loved spending time with friends playing cards. He treasured family gatherings at the lake, time spent outdoors, and maintaining his immaculate yard. Above all, Bill was happiest when surrounded by his children and grandchildren, whose lives he was deeply proud to be part of.

Missing Bill deeply is his beloved wife, Alda; son, Jeffrey (Tami) Severson, Sioux Falls, SD; daughter, Jennifer (Scott) Christensen, Sioux Falls, SD; grandchildren, Parker, Elizabeth, Sean, Aaron, Josh and Haley; 6 great-grandchildren; brothers Gordon (Mary) Severson, Hugo, MN, and Richard (Jan) Severson, Minneapolis, MN; sisters Jeanne Nuteson, Minneapolis, MN and Verona Lundell, Minneapolis MN.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Sylvia Lane and Darlene Kulyas.