Berniece L. Ticknor

With deep love and gratitude for a life richly lived, we announce the passing of Berniece Ticknor, who entered into eternal life on July 25, 2026 at the Vermillion Care Center.

Berniece Lorraine Klein was born December 29, 1930, in Burke, South Dakota to Dewey and Faye (Norton) Klein. Active during her high school years as a cheerleader and involved in pep club, glee club and was class president. Berniece graduated from Burke High School in 1949. She began work as a clerk in the Treasurer’s Office at the Gregory County Courthouse in Burke and went on to work at the Burke State Bank. Berniece married her high school sweetheart, Dean Ticknor, in October 1950, and they moved to Vermillion in 1965. Together, they founded Ticknor Excavation, where Berniece served as secretary and accountant for the business. Always involved in her church and local community, Berniece was an active member of the Vermillion First United Methodist Church and the Faith Hope Circle. She later joined the First Baptist Church. Berniece was an avid supporter of the Vermillion Backpack Program and frequently helped others in need. Happiest when surrounded by family and friends, Berniece loved planning parties and entertaining,

Survivors include her children Don (Audrey)Ticknor, Vermillion; Duane (Mary) Ticknor, Brush Prairie, WA; Patty (Tim) Schwasinger, Vermillion; and 5 grandchildren; Anthony (Lori) Ticknor, Bloomington, MN; David Ticknor, Brush Prairie, WA; Kristen (Andy) Vickers, Sioux Falls; Brooke (Michael) Powell, Coon Rapids, MN; Paul (Josie Givens) Schwasinger, Omaha, NE; great-grandchildren; August, Hudson, & Olive Ticknor, Adelina Flores, Graham Vickers, Sophia & Oliver Powell.

Welcoming Berniece home in Heaven are her beloved husband Dean; parents, Dewey & Faye; and one sibling, Erwin.

Funeral services will be 7:00 PM Thursday, July 30 at the Hansen Funeral Home in Vermillion with visitation beginning at 6:00 PM. Burial will be at 11:00 AM Friday, July 31 in the Graceland Cemetery in Burke, SD.

In honor of Berniece’s memory, donations may be made to The Main Street Center or the Vermillion Backpack Program.