Rod Frank Bickerdyke of Buffalo, SD has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
The following words honor a life that mattered to many.
Rod spent his working life as ['Continental Resources'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Family is the thread that runs through every story.
Rod Frank Bickerdyke, 58, left this earth April 22, 2026, at Monument Health in Rapid City, SD following a bout with cancer. Rod, born on March 11, 1968, in Belle Fourche, SD, was the son of Eugene and Marlene Bickerdyke. He grew up in Buffalo, SD, where he spent much time at his grandmother Grace Albertson's ranch. He attended the Harding County School and was active in football and wrestling, graduating high school in 1986. He attended one semester each at MSU in Bozeman, MT and BHSC in Spearfish, SD. Rod was married to Deborah Mitchell with whom he had six children; Joesph, Miranda, Tristan, Evan, Isabella, and Ashley. Rod grew up fishing and hunting with his dad and brother, Tyler. He shared that love with his son, Nayati, filling their weekends in the outdoors. He was also a lover of animals, especially cats and dogs, and an occasional duck. Rod worked in the Newcastle area and different places in South Dakota before returning to Buffalo. He worked for Continental Resources, Olson Fuel and Construction, and most recently for the Harding County Highway Department where he enjoyed both the comradery and the work. There is no doubt that his son, Nayati was his greatest joy. He was proud of Nayati's athletic accomplishments and his kind heart. In turn, Rod was Nayati's hero...."a father is someone you look up to, no matter how tall you grow." Rod was preceded in death by Miranda Mitchell, his grandparents, Sydney and Grace Albertson, and T.J. and Myrtle Russell; his parents, Eugene and Marlene; and his sister, Pam. Rod is survived by his son, Nayati, a freshman at DSU in Dickinson, ND., sister, Gene Von Bickerdyke and brother, Tyler (Audrey) Bickerdyke, numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins. A service is planned for May 17, 2026 @ 1:30 pm at the Old Gym in Buffalo, SD. Luncheon to follow at HC Memorial REC Center.
