Michael Gordon Diedrich, 70

August 10, 1954 - July 12, 2025

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, public servant, community pillar, and man of deep faith

Michael “Mike” Gordon Diedrich of Rapid City, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the age of 70. His life was one of purpose, passion, and deep commitment—to his family, his faith, his community, and the betterment of all those he served.

He is survived by his loving wife, Connie Marie Bisgaard Diedrich, his sons Christopher (and wife Sarah) and Ross Diedrich, his cherished grandson Theodore Christian Diedrich, his brother Steve Diedrich, nieces and nephews he treasured, and his many friends - all of which he considered to be family as well.

A Lifelong Calling of Faith, Law, and Leadership
Mike’s commitment to community began early. Born and raised in Rapid City, he was elected to student council in 3rd grade at Robbinsdale Elementary and later as 6th grade Student Council President at Annie Tallent School. By 7th grade, he was a proud Boy Scout “Law Explorer,” and by 8th grade, a courthouse field trip sparked a lifelong passion for politics and law. These experiences marked the beginning of a lifetime of service.

After earning his law degree from the University of South Dakota, Mike began his legal career as City Attorney for Rapid City. His early leadership helped catalyze transformational growth for the city, including major projects like the Civic Center expansion and strategic tourism initiatives that led to lasting economic impact.

Mike was elected to the South Dakota Senate—serving multiple terms across three decades—and was later appointed and elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives, where he proudly represented District 34. A natural leader, he held roles as Assistant Republican Leader and Majority Whip, and was recognized across party lines for his thoughtfulness, statesmanship, and steady moral compass.

Scholar, Visionary, Public Servant
In recognition of his exceptional leadership potential, Mike was awarded the prestigious Bush Fellowship, earning a full-ride scholarship to pursue a Master of Public Administration at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. Mike sold his beloved Ford Model A, packed his wife and sons (4 and 1) into a motorhome, and moved to Boston in the pursuit of being a better leader for the community. Upon graduating he returned to Rapid City to resume service as City Attorney and Senator, with sharpened perspective and renewed resolve.

Mike’s professional path continued with distinction. He became General Counsel and an early employee at Sodak Gaming Inc., helping lead the company through an IPO and multiple mergers. His work with South Dakota and national Tribal partners helped increase resources for Tribal education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Later, Mike practiced law at Bettmann, Hogue, & Diedrich LLP, and continued his academic pursuits by earning an LL.M. in Health Law from Loyola University Chicago. He served as Vice President of Government Relations for Regional Health, now Monument Health, where his strategic leadership helped usher in a new era of partnership and quality of care across the state. In 2023 Mike’s lifetime of establishing himself as an impactful resource to the community led to him receiving the Elevate Rapid City Distinguished Public Service Award.

Transformative Legacy and Lifelong Impact
Mike served on numerous community boards, including:

● Mount Rushmore Society

● Civic Center Board

● Rapid City Orchestra

● Boy Scouts of America

● Canyon Lake Little League Baseball

● Black Hills Community Bank

● Hanson-Larson Memorial Park

● Monument Health Hospital Board

● Bridges of Hope

● Treasured Lives

Among his proudest contributions:

● Human Trafficking Bill: A groundbreaking legislative initiative to protect women and children, this bill was later recognized and adopted by the United Nations as a global model for civil protection and victim safety.

● Ellsworth Air Force Base License Reciprocity Law: Mike’s legislation ensured immediate credential transfer for incoming professionals, strengthening Rapid City’s position in securing the B-21 bomber program and welcoming thousands of Air Force families into the community.

● Healthcare Transformation: He helped lead strategic planning that elevated the quality of care at Monument Health, including collaborations with the Mayo Clinic and Indian Health Services, improving both local communities and tribal health networks.

● Hanson-Larson Trail System: Mike’s vision for a world-class outdoor experience became reality through this internationally acclaimed, sustainability-certified park system—now enjoyed by hundreds of thousands each year for biking, hiking, and wellness.

● Supporting his family and fellow community members

A Man of God, Family, and Joy
Above all else, Mike was a man of unwavering faith and deep devotion to his immediate and extended family. He was selflessly devoted to supporting those he loved. As a lifelong resident of Rapid City he touched many lives and showed compassion by going out of his way to ensure he made a positive impact on the community while supporting those in need. An active participant in men’s Bible study groups, he lived out the Gospel not only in word, but in deed. His wife, sons, and grandson were his greatest joys—and he poured his energy, humor, and wisdom into every relationship he touched.

Mike brought lightness wherever he went. A talented drummer, artist, horseman, motorhead, and fly fisherman, he found joy on the ski slopes, traveling with his wife and kids, wrenching on classic cars, and in the simple moments of a good laugh or a to-go bag of chocolates and black licorice. His witty one-liners, loving and compassionate mentorship, and vibrant spirit will live on in those he leaves behind.

Final Services & Memorial
A visitation will be held on Friday, July 25, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home in Rapid City.

A funeral service will follow on Saturday, July 26, at 1:00 PM at Rimrock Church, with a reception at 3:30pm at the Monument Civic Center Theater.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hansen Larson Foundation, Bridges of Hope, Monument Health Foundation, or the Mount Rushmore Society in Mike’s honor.

Closing Tribute
Mike Diedrich embodied what it means to live a life of purpose. From the courthouse steps as a boy to the halls of Harvard and the State Capitol, he used every platform he touched to serve others with selflessness and compassion. His legacy lives on in stronger laws, healthier communities, thriving families, and a more joyful, protected, and faithful South Dakota.

He was preceded in death by his father Gordon Diedrich, mother June Mandeen Pederson Diedrich, and sister Vikki Engel.

He was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, counselor, mentor, statesman, and servant of God. And above all, he was a man who made the world better—one million dollar smile and one act of leadership, compassion, and courage at a time.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

— Matthew 25:23

Celebrate a life with the whole community in The Dakota Scout. Contact obits@thedakotascout.com to have your loved one remembered today.