Iola Jean Digerness, age 84, of Mitchell, SD died Monday, December 4, 2017 at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital. Memorial services will be 10:30 AM Thursday December 7, 2017 at First Lutheran Church in Mitchell with burial at Servicemen's Memorial Cemetery in Mitchell, SD. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday at Will Funeral Chapel.

Iola Jean Metzger, daughter of Walter and Gladys (May) Metzger, was born January 24, 1933 in rural Mt. Vernon, SD. She attended country school and later graduated from Mt. Vernon High School. After her schooling, Iola worked at Mitchell National Bank.

She was united in marriage with Glen Digerness on October 14, 1951 at Salem Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, SD. The couple made their home in Mt. Vernon, Madison, Farmer, Parkston and in 1964 moved to Mitchell, SD. Iola was a homemaker and raised the couple's children. After school started, Iola worked as a bookkeeper at Dahle Jewelry and at Mitchell Retirement. In her older years she enjoyed the companionship of her dog Lucky.

She enjoyed gardening, puzzles and reading.

She was a lifelong member of First Lutheran Church and active in the church circle.

Survivors include her son, Jeff (Kathy) Digerness, Black Hawk, SD, a daughter, Susan Schroeder, Sioux Falls, SD; three grandchildren, Matt (Elizabeth) Schroeder, Eric (special friend, Betsy Krohmer) Schroeder and Kim (Nathan) Metzger; one step grandson, Tony Stevens; two step granddaughters, Megan Nuttbrock and Tara Putzier; five great grandchildren, Jonah Metzger, Isaiah Metzger, Brooklyn Schroeder, Hannah Schroeder and Abagail Schroeder; step grandchild, Chelsie and a special friend, Chris Kirkus.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Glen on October 26, 2011; her parents and a daughter-in-law, Donna in 2000.