Heartland Funeral Home and Cremation Services

02/22/2026

Grief on the Screen

For this month's 'Grief on the Screen', we recommend 'Steel Magnolias'. This 1989 movie was based off of a play written by Robert Harling. It is based on a true story.

Harling lost his sister to diabetes in 1985 and wrote the play to celebrate her, his mother, and the neighborhood women who helped his family through the loss.

He titled it 'Steel Magnolias' as that was what southern women were frequently called. It means something that appears delicate and fragile but wields unexpected strength.

The movie shows a mother's grief in the loss of her daughter, which is considered unnatural order. It shows how having a good support system can help someone handle grief. And it shows how using the coping mechanism of humor is one way of dealing with immense grief.

02/21/2026

Eric Dane was a well known, well oved actor who died at the age of 53 from the devastating disease of ALS. He recorded this video with Netflix for his daughters, and the public.

While it is hard to see a man like this who we all thought of as untouchable, invincible, his 'last words' are words that we ALL need to hear and live by.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CQ5S87DJD/

02/20/2026

Today, on National Caregivers Day, we pause to recognize the extraordinary individuals who care for others with compassion, patience, and love.

National Caregivers Day is observed each year on the third Friday of February — and is dedicated to both professional and family caregivers who devote their time, energy, and emotional strength to caring for others. It is a single, focused day to say what often goes unsaid: We see you. And we are grateful.

When many people hear the word “caregiver,” they may picture a nurse or home health aide. But caregiving reaches far beyond a profession. A caregiver may be a spouse managing medications, an adult child coordinating appointments, a neighbor preparing meals, or a friend providing transportation and companionship. Caregivers quietly step into roles that are physically demanding, emotionally exhausting, and often financially challenging.

Caregiving can take a real toll. Many caregivers experience significant emotional stress and physical strain. Some feel isolated in their role. Others face financial hardship because of the time and resources required to care for someone they love. And yet, they continue to show up — day after day — often putting their own needs aside.

Recognition matters. A simple thank-you. A phone call. A meal dropped off. An offer to sit and give someone a short break. Small gestures can make a meaningful difference and remind caregivers that they are not alone.

To every caregiver in our community — whether you serve professionally or care for a loved one at home — thank you for the compassion and dedication you give so freely. Your work is seen. Your sacrifices matter. And your care makes a lasting impact.

Today, and every day, we honor you. 💙

02/20/2026

In this month's In The News - we have an article from Dakota News Now about a Flandreau mother who has found a way to work through the grief of losing her daughter and honor her memory.

Check out the article here: https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2026/02/18/mom-gives-backpacks-filled-with-toys-games-daughters-honor/

02/18/2026

Today, on Ash Wednesday, we extend our prayers and warm wishes to all who are beginning the Lenten season.

Ash Wednesday is a sacred reminder of both our humanity and our hope. The words spoken today, “For you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” gently call us to reflect on the fragility and preciousness of life. Ashes symbolize humility, repentance, and the reality that our time here is a gift.

In our work, we are reminded daily of how short life can be. Yet we are also reminded of the love that endures beyond it. While we return to dust, the impact we have on others — the memories, the kindness, the faith, the love — remains.

As this Lenten season begins, may it be a time of reflection, renewal, and peace for you and your family. If this season brings grief to the surface, know that you are not alone. We are always here to walk alongside you.

Wishing you a meaningful and gentle start to Lent.

02/17/2026

Today is National Random Acts of Kindness Day!

Random Acts of Kindness Day began in 1995 in Colorado. The idea behind the day is to brighten up someone’s day and cultivate feelings of kindness. Even a small act of kindness can make someone’s day. A smile, a hug, telling someone they look nice – can change someone’s day around completely.

Here are a few ideas that you can do for a random act of kindness. And remember, you can do these every day, not just today!

~Give a compliment to a friend or stranger.
~Leave change in vending machine.
~Leave positive sticky notes around your city.
~Pick up litter on the ground.
~Leave a positive review for your favorite business.
~Write a thank you note to someone for just doing their job.
~Smile at people as you walk by them.
~Pay for a stranger’s coffee.
~Donate lunch money to your local school.

There are many more ideas that you can do. We would love to hear what you have done or will be doing!

02/17/2026

Grief in Music

This month’s song for our Grief in Music series is ‘Tears in Heaven’ by Eric Clapton.

Eric wrote this song after the death of his four-year-old son, Conor, who died after falling from a 53rd floor, New York apartment window. This song talks about a father’s grief and questioning what would happen if he saw his son in heaven.

Take a listen to the song here…..

"Tears in Heaven" is a ballad written by Eric Clapton and Will Jennings about the pain Clapton felt following the death of his four-year-old son, Conor, who ...

02/15/2026

02/15/2026

Kyle Henry Teunissen
August 9, 1981 ~ February 12, 2026

Kyle H. Teunissen, 44, Brandon, SD, died on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Sanford USD Medical Center, surrounded by his family.

August 9, 1981 ~ February 12, 2026 Kyle H. Teunissen, 44, Brandon, SD, died on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Sanford USD Medical Center, surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life Open House will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Celebration UMC, Bran

02/14/2026

Valentine’s Day & Grief

Valentine’s Day can be a beautiful day filled with love, flowers, and sweet memories. But for those who are grieving, it can also be one of the hardest days of the year.

When someone we love is no longer physically with us, days centered around love can magnify the ache in our hearts. We miss their voice, their smile, the traditions you shared, and even the quiet, ordinary moments.

If today feels heavy for you, please know that you are not alone.

The best way to walk through a day like today is to give yourself permission — permission to feel whatever comes. You might choose to:
• Light a candle in their honor
• Look through photos or write them a letter
• Share a favorite story about them
• Spend time with someone who understands your heart
• Or simply allow yourself to rest

Love does not end when a life does. The love you shared is still part of you — and always will be.

Today, be gentle with yourself. 🤍

We are holding space in our hearts for all who are missing someone they love this Valentine’s Day.

02/06/2026

In Loving Memory of:

Ronny “Ron” Lou Gillespie
March 2, 1959 ~ January 27, 2026

Ronny “Ron” L. Gillespie, 66, Sioux Falls, SD, was called home by God on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

March 2, 1959 ~ January 27, 2026 Ronny “Ron” L. Gillespie, 66, Sioux Falls, SD, was called home by God on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls. Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Sioux Fall