Lana Severson, 83, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at the Avera Maryhouse Nursing Home in Pierre, SD.

Lana Dee (Cole) Severson was born on August 17, 1942, to Ruby and Richard Cole in San Diego, CA. When Lana was eight years old, she moved to Webster, South Dakota, where she later graduated from high school in 1960. Following graduation, she attended Presentation College of Nursing in Aberdeen. She graduated from St. Luke's School of Nursing in 1963 and began her career in pediatrics and on the medical floor.

On August 12, 1967, Lana married Harold Edward Severson in Webster, South Dakota. To this union, a son (Chad) was born in 1981. After their marriage, the couple moved to Lemmon. From 1969 until 1982, Lana served as the Director of Nursing for Five Counties Hospital. In 1987, she transitioned to part-time work to spend more time at home, and toward the end of her career, she found great fulfillment in training new staff.

Lana had a passion for making the world around her beautiful. An avid gardener, she volunteered at the Petrified Wood Park and served on the Park Board, ensuring the town always looked its best. In her younger years, she stayed active through tennis and waterskiing. Lana was best known for her deep compassion, a trait that defined both her professional and personal life.

After Harold's passing, Lana moved to Pierre to be closer to her son, Chad. While in Pierre, she enjoyed playing bridge with friends and the occasional trip to the casino.

Lana Severson passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, at Mary House in Pierre, SD, at the age of 83.

Lana was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; her mother, Ruby; her parents-in-law, Ethel and George; and her sister, Sandra.

Holding her memory dear is her son, Chad Severson of Pierre; one foster son, Chris Byron of Albert Lea, MN; two sisters, Diana (Dave) Snaza of Milbank, SD, and Billie Sue (Chuck) Coleman of Ely, NV; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

In lieu of a traditional funeral, a memorial service to celebrate Lana's life will be held at a later date.