Former South Dakota governor Frank Farrar, who died Oct. 31, will be honored in memorial services at the State Capitol in Pierre Tuesday, Nov. 9. SDPB will broadcast and stream the state memorial service at 1pm (noon MT) on SDPB1,SDPB Radio, SD.net, and on SDPB'sFacebook page.
According to a press release from Governor Kristi Noem's office, a public viewing of Farrar's casket is scheduled from 7-11am (6-10 MT). The Capitol's second-floor Rotunda will shut down for a scheduled memorial ceremony at 1pm (noon MT).
Rev. Jason Mueller will officiate the ceremony and Clyde Fredrickson, mayor of Britton, SD, will offer a welcome. Noem and former Gov. Dennis Daugaard will offer remembrances. Musical performances will be held throughout the ceremony by vocalist Kate Wismer and pianist Peggy Davidson, both from Britton, and Sioux Falls vocalist Shawn Cable.
At the ceremony's end, Farrar's casket will be carried down the Capitol steps by members of the South Dakota National Guard and troopers from the South Dakota State Patrol, followed by a 21-gun salute and taps.
Those wishing to pay their respects can enter the Capitol Building through the north doors. Circle Drive will close at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 8, and will not reopen until after 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 9.
Former South Dakota Gov. Frank Farrar died Oct. 31. He was 92.
Known as the “boy wonder," Farrar was the youngest person ever elected state attorney general. He served as the state's attorney general from 1963 to 1969.
He was elected the state’s 24th governor in 1968. Farrar easily won the general election.
In 1970, he lost his bid for a second term to Democrat Dick Kneip. After leaving office, he chaired several holding companies and became the owner of numerous banks.
His wife, Patricia, died on October 31, 2015. The two had five children.
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in memory of Farrar.
“Frank was an incredible leader for our state and a mentor to me over these past years, as well,” Noem said. “His heart for people and his enthusiasm for public service have been an inspiration.”
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