Memorial services for Lavonne will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025 at St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lemmon, SD.  Burial of her ashes at the Black Hills National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

LaVonne J. Kinyon, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, in Hettinger, North Dakota, after a courageous battle with MRSA. She was born on June 18, 1931, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Elias and Mabel Hanson. LaVonne touched the lives of everyone around her with creativity, and an unwavering spirit.  LaVonne's life was a tapestry woven with love and dedication.

In 1947, she married Walter Frank, and together they welcomed three children: George, Bruce, and Don. In 1961, LaVonne found love again with Ronald Christie, and they had a son, Ron Christie II. Her family grew further when she had her daughter, Julie Schopp, in 1965, with Stanley Bennett. Julie was put up for adoption at birth and was raised by her parents Bernard and Irene Daschel. Julie met Lavonne later in life as an adult. In 1975, she married Dale Kinyon, and their union added even more love to her life.  LaVonne was a devoted mother who cherished her family above all else.

She is survived by her loving children—George Frank, Bruce Frank, Don Frank, Ron Christie, and Julie Schopp—as well as her sixteen adoring grandchildren who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her husband Dale, her parents and her sister Lorraine.  Her career included dedicated service as a nurse's aide and a jewelry store salesperson, roles that showcased her compassionate nature and her love for helping others.

LaVonne was also a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church, having been baptized in October 1931, and her faith was a guiding light throughout her life  .An artist at heart, LaVonne found joy in various hobbies, including rosemaling, painting, and making beautiful ceramic angels. She loved gardening, playing cards, and bingo, and enjoyed bowling in her younger years. Her passion for quilting produced countless treasured pieces, each holding a piece of her heart and creativity. Known for her playful spirit, LaVonne had a delightful quirk—she would peek at her Christmas presents early, with one memorable year resulting in a lump of coal, a story she shared with laughter.  LaVonne's legacy is one of love, artistic expression, and connection.

Her kindness and humor were a beacon of light, and her family and friends will forever cherish the moments spent in her company. A woman who embraced life with open arms, LaVonne Kinyon leaves behind a rich legacy and a heartwarming example of love, resilience, and creativity.  A celebration of LaVonne's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and share stories of her incredible journey.

In her memory, let us carry forward her spirit of love and creativity, cherishing each moment as she did. May she rest in peace, knowing that she was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.