Ed Gerken, 69, of Hill City, passed away December 31, 2024 at home in Hill City.

Ed Gerken was born in Gregory, South Dakota, on March 24, 1955 to parents Jack and Georgia Gerken. He was the middle child of five siblings; eldest Louise (Lou), Donald (Don), Ed, Christina (Chris), Mary Jeanette (Nette).

Ed and his family moved to Hill City, where he finished his final two years of high school. Graduating in 1973. That summer, he began taking photographs and making prints for hire. He enjoyed the wide variety of subjects, weddings, graduations, even horses.

Also in the 1970’s, Ed began taking photos and assisting with production work at the Gerken-family-owned newspaper, Hill City Prevailer, and later 5 years at Custer County Chronical. This experience, along with his friendship with author and Historian Watson Parker would lead to Ed’s own effort in preserving and publishing Hill City history and old photography.

In 1981, while still employed by the Custer newspaper, Ed met Sandra Holmes. Made it official June 20, 1987. Married at her parents cabin, which they purchased in 1989 and still reside in. They had no children. But, many loving memories.

After journalism, Ed worked for several construction outfits, becoming known as a worker in many trades.

In 1984, was hired as a building contractor laborer at the Black Hills Institute. BHI today is a highly regarded paleontology enterprise that has earned its world-wide acclaim. Ed, being a “jack of all trades” ending up working at BHI for 12 years.

Sandra started her fossil preparation business in 1992 and Ed joined her part time, then full time. Until he retired due to health problems.

Ed is survived by:

Wife, Sandy Gerken,

Sister, Lou Sawyer,

Brother, Don Gerken,

Sister, Jeanette Grimm

Ed is preceded by:

Father, Jack Gerken

Mother, Georgia Gerken,

Sister, Chris