Gary Romkema, 76, of Springfield

Funeral services are 10:30 AM, Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at Emmanuel Reformed Church in Springfield. Burial is in the Emmanuel Reformed Cemetery, rural Springfield, with military honors. The service will be live-streamed on the Emmanuel Reformed Church Springfield, SD Youtube page. Visitation is at the church on Tuesday from 5-7 PM. 

Gary Romkema, age 76, passed away peacefully on the evening of July 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and the legacy of a life well lived.

Born on August 6, 1949, Gary spent his life embodying the values of hard work, faith, generosity, humility, and devotion to family. He was a man of remarkable strength and steadiness whose quiet presence brought comfort and confidence to those around him. Though often stoic in expression, Gary loved deeply and faithfully, showing that love through his actions every day.

Gary proudly served his country in the South Dakota National Guard, reflecting the same sense of duty and commitment that would characterize the rest of his life.

Gary dedicated his entire career to farming, persevering through both prosperous seasons and some of agriculture's most difficult years, including the hardships of the 1980s farm crisis. His determination, resilience, and unwavering work ethic enabled him to build a successful farming operation while earning the respect and admiration of his community.

In addition to his gifts as a farmer, Gary was an exceptionally talented carpenter. His craftsmanship can be found throughout the region in countless homes he helped remodel and improve. He took particular pride in using his talents in service to his church, Emmanuel Reformed Church in Springfield, where his handiwork remains visible today. Gary generously donated innumerable hours of labor and expertise to the church and faithfully served as both a Deacon and Elder, living out his faith through service to others.

Gary was preceded in death by his first wife, Joyce Romkema, whose memory remained dear to him throughout his life, his brother Jim Romkema, and parents Raymond and Phyllis Romkema.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jonna Romkema, whose loving care and devotion blessed his later years and brought him great comfort. He is also survived by his cherished children: Sheila Gestring and her husband Keith, Ross Romkema and his wife Cheri, and Wanda Goodman and her husband Greg.

Gary took immense pride in his six grandchildren: Dillon Gestring, Wyatt Gestring, Rachel Romkema, Colin Romkema, Jackson Goodman, and Allison Goodman. They brought him tremendous joy and were among his greatest blessings.

He is further survived by his siblings, Jay, Terry, Jolene, and Paul, along with many extended family members, friends, neighbors, fellow church members, and all who were touched by his kindness and generosity.

Gary will be remembered as a man who gave freely of his time, talent, and treasure. Whether through a helping hand, a carefully crafted project, a steadfast presence during difficult times, or quiet acts of generosity that often went unnoticed, he leaves behind an enduring example of servant leadership and Christian faith.

His family will remember him as a loving father and grandfather, a dependable source of strength, and a man whose actions consistently reflected his character. His community will remember him as a respected farmer, skilled craftsman, faithful church leader, and trusted friend. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the church he served, the work of his hands, and the countless lives he influenced through his kindness.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Gary's life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.