Peggy Laurenz, age 64, passed away on May 11, 2026 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her family and friends.
Peggy Ann Keller was born on May 4, 1962, in Mobridge, SD to Duane and Janice Keller. She grew up on the family farm near Trail City, SD and attended McLauglin Public High School graduating in 1980. She enjoyed attending the McLaughin, SD all school reunions. She obtained a degree in Business Administration from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD.
Peggy was united in marriage to Rob Laurenz in 1987. They spent the next ten years enjoying marriage and building careers. Peggy had a desire to see the world and loved traveling with her numerous friends. She drank Guinness in Ireland, wine in Italy, and mai tais in Hawaii. She hiked Machu Picchu and walked across England. Peggy was a friend to the world.
She retired from the South Dakota Department of Transportation after more than twenty years where she worked as the Director of Human Resources. After retirement, Peggy gave generously of her time and treasure to local charities. She also worked several years in the state legislature, including three years as Secretary of the Senate.
She was known for her radiant smile, quick wit and deep love for her cat Eddy.
Peggy is survived by her mom Janice (David) Howell, her dad Duane (Whitey) Keller, her brother Bruce (Jill) Keller, her nieces Kila (Bob) LeGrand, Lauren Keller, and Jayde Keller, her great niece Nora and nephews Braden, Logan, Axel, and Weston, and her cat Eddy. Peggy is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends, including the Mortenson family, who proudly declared Peggy as an honorary auntie.
She was preceded in death by her step-mom Sharon Keller, grandparents Valentine and Christine Keller and Walter and Helen Cudmore.
A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, May 27 at Drifters in Fort Pierre, SD from 5–8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Pierre.
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