Jill Ann Haver

Jill Ann Haver of Wakonda, SD passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday evening, April 23rd, 2024, at the age of 74.

    Jill was born February 23rd, 1950, to RD “Dewey” and Lavonne “Bonnie” (Peterson) Halford in Sac City, IA.  She grew up in Sioux City and graduated from East High School in 1968.  She then attended Morningside College and graduated with a double major in Business and Economics in 1972.  

    Jill worked for various banks and met the love of her life, John Haver, in Omaha in 1974.  They moved back to Wakonda in 1975 and married on October 30th, 1975.  Jill was a “city girl,” but enjoyed being in the country.  They had 2 children, a daughter, Erin, born in 1981 and a son, Ryan, born in 1984.  She was always proud of being able to stay home and raise her children.  She also helped John on the farm, sorting hogs and hauling grain.  Jill and John enjoyed attending their children’s events and later-in-life events for their grandchildren.  They also traveled more after the kids were out of the house and made a few trips to Hawaii, Alaska and most recently were in Frisco, TX to see the Jacks win the FCS championship.  Maui was an especially treasured place, and she was devastated when the fire happened in Lahaina.

    Jill loved her pets, especially her cats.  Her family members fondly referred to her as “the crazy cat lady.”  A very special one, Buddy, is mourning her passing.  But she absolutely adored her grandchildren.  They were her pride and joy and will miss her a great deal.  She was very active in the Wakonda United Methodist Church and Wakonda Legion Auxiliary.

    Her memory is cherished by her husband John, daughter Erin (Justin) Christensen and granddaughter Aja, son Ryan (Laura) Haver and grandchildren Ben and Nova.  Also, sister Sue (Will Drobac) Harig and sisters-in-law Maurine Haver, Lea Gustad, and Gail Haver. She was proceeded in death by her parents and in-laws.