DELL RAPIDS, S.D.(Press Release) – Media outlets confirmed this evening that Rep. Richard Vasgaard tragically passed away following an accident. South Dakota State House leadership issued the following statements:

“I was honored to serve alongside Rep. Richard Vasgaard,” said South Dakota Speaker of the House Jon Hansen. “Richard brought humility, wisdom, and a steady voice to our House chamber. His service was marked by an unwavering dedication to the citizens he represented, and to the agriculture industry he and his family worked in.

My family and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Joyce, as well as all of his family and friends. He will be missed.”

Speaker Pro Tempore Karla Lems, who served with Vasgaard as his district mate, added:

“I’ve had the privilege of being both represented by and serving alongside Richard during his time in the Legislature,” said Speaker Pro Tempore Karla Lems. “While the experience and steady perspective he brought to Pierre will be missed, it is an irreplaceable loss to District 16 and his Turner County community. We join many others in lifting the Vasgaard family in prayer.”

“Richard was liked and respected by everybody,” added House Majority Leader Scott Odenbach. “His love for farming and for South Dakota was as strong as anybody I’ve ever seen. He will truly be missed.”