Steven Jerome Berseth 76, passed away on Oct. 15, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.
The memorial service will commence at 1 p.m. Thursday October 23, at First Lutheran Church in Brookings, SD with Pastor Jessica Daum officiating. Memorial visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, Rude's Funeral Home in Brookings. Memorial visitation will resume at the church, one hour prior to the funeral service.
Steven J. Berseth was born Sept. 28, 1949, to Norman and Jo-an (Hendrickson) Berseth at Fargo, ND. He was baptized and confirmed at the Richland Lutheran Church. Steve received his public school education in Abercrombie, ND and was a 1967 graduate of Eagle High School. He continued his education at North Dakota State University; earning his Bachelor's Degree in 1971 and Master's Degree in 1973. Steve was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity, and served as Homecoming Co-Chairperson in 1970.
Steve and Benda Gronneberg were joined in marriage on December 19, 1971 in Cooperstown, North Dakota. They moved to Brookings, South Dakota in 1972 when Steve began a 39-year career as a teacher, counselor, coach and Brookings High School Activities Director. Steve and Benda were fortunate to spend their entire educational careers in Brookings, and especially enjoyed athletics and fine arts events at both Brookings High School and South Dakota State University. They also shared an interest in improving their yard and gardening.
Steve was highly involved in the Leadership Training and Certification Programs sponsored by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, and served in leadership roles in state and national sports organizations during his career as athletics administrator and during retirement. He was the recipient of several state and national awards, including 2010 NHSACA National Athletic Director of the Year and induction to the Brookings High School, SDHSCA, SDIAAA and NIAAA Athletics Halls of Fame.
Steve served on both the Brookings Parks, Recreation & Forestry Board and Convention & Visitors Bureau as well as the South Dakota State University Athletics Department Strategic Plan and Division I Reclassification Committees. His involvement at First Lutheran Church included ushering, and membership on the Education and Property and Finance Committees as well as the Church Council.
Steve was blessed with 53 years of marriage to Benda, and enjoyed being a father and grandpa. He cherished his family and was proud of their achievements. His favorite times involved family activities. Steve is survived by his wife, Benda, son, Craig of Brookings, daughter, Brienne (Joel) Torgrude of Brandon, grandchildren, Autumn and Annika Berseth, Logan and Palmer Torgrude, and brothers, Mike, Brian (Connie) and Neil (Kim).
He was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister, Bonnie Rae, sister-in-law, Linda Berseth and nephew Shawn Berseth.
Online condolences may be made at www.rudesfuneralhome.com.
