Shawn Edward Pilster, 46, of Alzada, MT, passed away Friday, Dec. 27, 2013 at his home on the family ranch. He was born April 6, 1967 in Belle Fourche, SD to Larry and Madge (Marcott) Pilster.
Shawn attended elementary school in Alzada and high school in Belle Fourche. He later received his GED. Shawn served in the US Army for three years. He completed his basic training at Fort Dix, NJ and then served in Germany before being honorably discharged. He went on to receive his Diesel Mechanic certification from the Wyoming Technical Institute in Laramie, WY. After school, he moved to Washington State where he worked in the timber business with his Army buddy Mike Keller. After the timber business went down, he moved to Texas to work for Caterpillar. He then returned to the family ranch.
Shawn was active in 4-H growing up. He won numerous awards for his tractor driving and photography skills at the Carter County Fair. His love of tractors and photography continued to grow throughout his life. He was an excellent mechanic and would bale beautiful round bales each summer with a John Deere tractor and Hesston baler. Shawn had truly found his niche as a scenic photographer. He won a national award for his photo titled “Looking Back” from the American Sheep Industry in 2012 and he was one of the featured artists for the 2013 Alzada Poetry and Art Show. He was a member of the Black Hills Photography Club and had several of his prints hanging in various locations throughout the Black Hills. His photos of the Aurora Borealis and lightning strikes were incredible.
Shawn also loved animals and frequently made pets of numerous sheep and cows each year on the ranch. He spent countless hours in the lambing shed each spring and could easily identify the pets from a distance as they would come running to see if he had any cake or hay cubes in his pocket. One of Shawn’s true passions was firefighting. He was a dedicated member of the Alzada Volunteer Fire Department and served as the Secretary/Treasurer for several years. He would often sit up all night on a ridge in the summer during lightning storms watching for fires and would usually be one of the first on scene. Shawn served as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Carter County Sheep and Cattle Growers Association. He was also involved with the Montana Stockgrowers Association and was a member of the Montana Public Lands Council.
Survivors include his parents, Larry and Madge of Alzada; brother and sister-in-law, Lane and Dawn Pilster of Alzada; sister and brother-in-law, Misti and Del Richardson of Gallatin Gateway, MT; grandmother Helen Pilster of Spearfish, SD; nieces, Emily Muhlbeier of Shepherd, MT, Laci Pilster of Alzada, and Caitlyn Richardson of Gallatin Gateway, MT; nephews, Max Richardson of Gallatin Gateway, MT and John Pilster of Alzada; uncle and aunt Larry and Margie Marcott of Thermopolis, WY; uncle Bob Pilster of Blackfoot, ID; two cousins, Nathan Pilster of Blackfoot, ID and Brady Pilster of Ogden, UT, and very special friend, Tea Backstrom of Absarokee, MT. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ed Pilster of Alzada, and Max and Jackie Marcott of Thermopolis, WY and his “adopted” grandmother, Lydia Capra.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Belle Fourche, SD. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Belle Fourche, SD. Burial will follow with full military honors in the Pine Slope Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials may be made to the Alzada Volunteer Fire Department.
Service Schedule
Visitation
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Thursday January 2, 2014
First United Church Of Christ
717 Jackson St.
Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Thursday January 2, 2014
First United Church Of Christ
717 Jackson St.
Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Interment with Full Military Honors
Thursday January 2, 2014
Pine Slope Cemetery
Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Service Schedule
Visitation
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Thursday January 2, 2014
First United Church Of Christ
717 Jackson St.
Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Thursday January 2, 2014
First United Church Of Christ
717 Jackson St.
Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Interment with Full Military Honors
Thursday January 2, 2014
Pine Slope Cemetery
Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Share
December White says
Our love and prayers are with you all. Rick, December, and boys.
Tom and Kathy Stieg says
We are so sorry for your loss and are remembering you in our prayers. Love and Sympathy, Tom and Kathy Stieg
Sharon Knapp says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all .
Karen Cossette (Kreitel) says
My prayers are with you all. I have found Shawn’s photos these past few years quite beautiful. His perspective of the world will be greatly missed.
Jaimie (Fitch) Hoffmann says
Thinking of you all knowing God will always hold you close.
Cassidy & Tandi Jesperson says
Pilster Family, we are so sorry for your loss. We wish there was something to do for you during this difficult time. May your wonderful memories comfort you during this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Joani Hope says
My prayers are will you all as you endure this difficult season. God is soveriegn and He will povide what you need to get through this.
Muriel Bear says
Was so sorry to hear about Shawn. My heart goes out to you and may God comfort you and your family at this time and bring you peace.
KC & Lauri KEITH says
Larry, Madge, and family, We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with each of you.
Jerry & Joyce Babcock says
Words can not possibly express the sympathy we have for you at this sad time . We wish we could be there with you to help share this loss. Although we must say good bye to Shawn, his Heavenly family has welcomed him with open arms. We will always remember the little boy that rode on our shoulders on our honeymoon. Our thoughts and prayers are with our Montana family as they say good bye to Shawn.
Cy and Paula Sandholdt says
Our hearts broke when we got the word that Shawn had passed. We wished for the words to comfort the family, but they dont come easy. We feel the need to be there to help in some way and we appologize for living so far away and not being able to drive over just to be there! We will miss shawns big welcoming smile and ever friendly ribbing about the type of truck i choose to drive! He was a good person/friend with a big heart and staight forward approach to people and life. He will be greatly missed by us and the iowa crew!! Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with all of you.
Jennifer Kapinos says
Praying God’s comfort & peace for all of you during this difficult time. Know that He is close to the broken hearted.
Jenn & Kelly Kapinos & family
Bernice Walter says
The memories I have of Shawn are wonderful ones. Our families spent a lot of time together through 4-H and related activities. My hear is breaking for all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Ron, Lori and Klinghagen family says
Sorry to hear of the loss of Shawn! We extend our
Deepest sympathy. We do apologize for
Being so far away to share in your loss.
Shawn was always a friend no matter what
Was going on or where.
Sincerely,
Ron Klinghagen
Fred & Judee Wilson says
Larry, Madge and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We pray that God’s compassion, comfort, and peace will be upon you and see your through the coming days.
Fred & Judee Wilson
Belle Fourche, SD
Georgia Bruski says
Larry, Madge and family.
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Shawn. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God keep you all in his special care at this very sad time.
Laurie Dean Foudray says
I can only imagine the heartache you are feeling. I remember so many great memories with Shawn. 4-H, ice skating, the fair, the teasing and laughing, etc. he was truly a great guy from a great family. All I can think is the Pilster family has a very special guardian angel watching over the ranch and weren’t we so lucky to have him in our lives
laurel lunsford says
From our family to yours our deepest sympathies. He was a great cousin and will be deeply missed. Luv to you all.
Michelle Teigen says
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Heaven just gained another angel. Will keep you in thought and prayers as I will not be able to attend the funeral.
Ashlea Bassett says
Our prayers are with all of you during this time. I hope you are able to find comfort in one another an in your memories of Shawn. He was a great man and I always enjoyed seeing him. He has left a great impression on so many of us and we’re all better people for knowing him. Love to you all.
Pete, Ashlea, Karina and Tate Bassett
Rick & Dee Abbott says
Larry, Madge & family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies! We pray that God will grant you peace and comfort during this time of sorrow!
Janet and Horval Jensen , Tami, Lee & Heidi, Tucker, Hadlie, Gunner says
Madge and Larry, Lane and Dawn and family, Misty and Del and famiy.
Our hearts are so heavy for all of you. We love you and wish we
could take the pain away. May God help you through this time and
comfort all of you.
The Jensen Family
Karen says
I am sorry for your loss I know your heart is aching, even though I did not know your son ,I just went through a loss myself. My prayers are with all of your family
Lindsay & Milton Tope says
We are very sorry for your loss. The loss of a child is so difficult. May God fill your heart with the many memories that you have of Shawn today and always.
Annette and Gary Frank says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you now and in the coming year.
Rainie says
Larry Madge and family,
My heart goes out to u and your family in this time of need. I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Ed Morrow says
My thoughts are with you at this sad time
David and Jody Smith says
Larry, Madge and Lane I just heard about Shawn. I can’t imagine what you are going through. Shawn was a good friend and I will miss him also. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything I can do please let me know.
Dave and Jody Smith
Aaron Mollie Robert and MIchael Phipps says
Our deepest sympathies. May time ease the ache in your hearts, and take comfort in that Shawn rests with the Lord.
Aaron Mollie Robert and Michael
Chris and Jan Michal says
Larry, Madge, and family; Jan and I are shocked to say the least!! Shawn was a breath of HONEST fresh air. We all are very fortunate our paths crossed. It’s very hard, if not impossible to understand why the Lord takes people from us. Rest assured we all will be with Shawn again, Laughing!!
Chris And Jan Michal
Tom & Jody Courtney says
Larry, Madge, Lane, Dawn and Misty,
Our hearts hurt for you. Please know that our love and prayers surround you now.
Larry and Ardyth Helmer says
We are so sorry for your loss. As you we’ll know, he was a special, talented man. Our sympathies to you and your family. Praying for God’s hand to be upon you and bring peace to your hearts.
Bill Latchford says
I am so sorry for your loss. I met Shawn in Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training. He had the biggest heart and was a wonderful friend. Thoughts and Prayers
Jean Brown says
Madge and Larry,
Your family will be in my prayers. I just read an e-mail from Marie, since I had just returned from Southern New Mexico, visiting my daughter. No one can really imagine what it is like to loose a son at such an early age, but I want you to know you both will be in my prayers and thoughts. I hope you can be reconciled by remembering the good and happy times, and let God heal, in time.
Blessings,
Les and Wendy McKamey says
Dear Pilster Family,
We share your sorrow and extend our sincere sympathy at the loss of Shawn. We pray that God will be with you now and always as you remember Shawn and that you will find comfort both in your memories of Shawn and God’s gracious love.
Sincerely,
Les and Wendy McKamey
Frankie Hofer says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Shawn was a special addition to our photography group and will be greatly missed by everyone. It was always nice to have him attend meetings–always had a smile on his face. Great photographer. Friends, Frankie and Krista Hofer
Verna Kreitel says
Such a shock. Remember the good times. You have a wonderful family. Always enjoyed you all at the fairs!!
wayne & Anita Wetherelt says
Our thoughts & prayers for all the family. Such a shock & at this time of year, we’ll always ask why, but know that he is in God’s hand.
Randy & Amanda Tunby says
Larry, Madge, Lane, Misti & Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May the memories of Shawn bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Eva Bareis says
I am so sorry that I wasn’t able to know Shawn better. We were in a photo club together and the bit I time I spent with him was very enjoyable. I remember having a conversation with him once on a controversial issue, and he treated my opinion with respect and thoughtful reflection. That type of warm and non-judgemental acceptance is a beautiful quality and speaks volumes about the type of man he was. Reading of his love for animals so warms my heart as I am an animal lover as well. It is clear he had a beautiful and gentle spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dean Benson Family says
Madge and Larry and the rest of the family — our deepest sympathy for your loss – with love and prayers – Dean Benson
Roger and Bonnie Ballou says
Our Prayers, Hearts, and Thoughts are with You All in the days ahead –knowing what You are going through–God Bless, Roger and Bonnie Ballou
Mack and Judy Cole says
Madge, Larry, Misty and other family members,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sorrowful time. Love to all, Mack and Judy
Pam & David Nisley says
To Shawns loved ones~ We don’t understand why he was taken at such a young age- we pray for the arms of Jesus to envelope all of you, and bring you comfort that only He can.
I recall Shawn coming with a fire truck and helping us with a vehicle fire about 10 years ago up on the Hammond divide. He was so helpful, and after the fire was out, we all had a good visit:) I see some of his photography now, and it is amazing, such a talent!! May God Bless you All!!!
Sharon Kudlock says
Larry and Madge and family:
So sorry to hear about Shawn, my heart aches for you and your family. If there is anything I can do please let me know. My prayers are with you and may God give you the strength and courage to get through this horrible loss. God Bless all of you!
Sandra Brown says
Larry, Madge and Family, My heart is broken for you. I just saw Shawn in Billings at the Stockgrowers and had a nice visit with him. What a wonderful family you are, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this heartbreaking time.
Shane and Jill Garman and family says
Larry and Madge and family,
We extend our heartfelt sympathy at this time of loss. We are thinking of you often and pray for you all.
Tom and Lillian Ostendorf says
You are in our hearts and prayers today as you say goodbye to Shawn. Our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Casey & Linda Hunter says
We had not heard about your loss until today. So very sorry and sending our hugs and prayers to both.
Patsy Nygaard says
Larry, Madge and Family–My deepest sympathy and prayers to all of you. Praying your fond memories will ease some of your sorrow and that God will give you the strength to get through the loss you are feeling.
Michele Nygaard says
I am so sorry to hear about Shawn. I met him when I was a kid spending summers at my grandparents ranch (Lew and Velma Viergets). Even though that was a long time ago, I remember him as a very kind person and I am glad we crossed paths. My thoughts are with all of you.
Sarah Wagner says
I am so sorry to hear about Shawn. he was so nice. he delivered a bumlamb a few years ago and that was the nicest smelling lamb! Shawn had let the lamb lean against him for the trip!
Bill & Sally Mason says
We are so very sorry.
Mark Jacobsen says
Larry and Madge– So sorry to hear of Sean’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. — From your friends at the Miles City Field Office
Shawn "Tater" Erickson says
I am so sad to hear of the loss of Shawn. I loved when I stoped to say hi a few times and seeing him at MSGA conventions. He is such a wonderful guy.
Scott and Brigit Hemmer and family says
To the Pilster family: We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Peggy Erickson says
Larry & Madge,
So hard to find the right words at a time of loss like this, but know that you are being lifted up in prayer to the ONE who knows exactly what you need. Rejoice with Him over your son’s homecoming and run to Him every minute of every day during your grieving. It is the only answer when it seems there are none.
In His Love,
Peggy Erickson (Bob)
Leo, Joyce (Enerson) Nelson says
Dear Madge, Larry and families, We were so sorry to hear of Shawn’s passing. Losing a child is the hardest thing that can happen to a parent. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jeff and Tracy Mosley says
Larry, Madge, Misti, Lane and Family,
Our hearts are saddened by Shawn’s passing. We hope it helps at least a little to know that you have many friends praying that God will bring you comfort. Shawn was a humble gentleman with a caring heart and a calming presence that put people at ease. The world needs more people like Shawn. Our prayers are with you.