Reginald "Reggie" Mentele, 78, of Mitchell passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 after a nine year long battle with cancer, under the care of his family as well as his kind and loving hospice team.

A memorial Mass will be at 10:30 AM Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at Holy Family Catholic Church. Burial with Military Rites will be in Calvary Cemetery. A rosary will be at 5:00 PM Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at Will Funeral Chapel. Visitation will be from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at Will Funeral Chapel.

Reginald "Reg" Edward Mentele, 78, was born on November 8, 1945, to Edward and Frances Mentele. Reg was one of seven children born to the couple. He grew up in Mitchell, graduating from Notre Dame Academy in 1963.

Reggie attended USD for a short period of time before moving to California to clean swimming pools for the movie stars. Shortly after his move, in August 1965, he was drafted. After much research, contemplation, and searching for the right fit, Reg found his place in the United States Marine Corps. He enlisted in the USMC Air Reserve Helicopter Squadron, where he formed a brotherhood with 95 other young men. He was selected to be the first squad leader as well as crew chief, setting himself up for a lifetime of leadership roles.  In 1968, Reg was honorably discharged and returned back to his home state where he made an intra service transfer to the SD National Guard "A" Battery where he completed his military obligation.

Reg attended Dakota Wesleyan University, graduating with a BA in Business Administration. Upon completion of his degree, he went into business with his father. Two months later, his father passed away leaving Reg as the sole owner of Mentele Agency Real Estate and Insurance. He successfully grew the business and branched out into property management and commercial development. Reg sold the insurance and real estate company in the 90's and later, due to poor health, sold off his commercial and residential properties with the last being sold in 2023.

On October 11, 1973, Reg married Suzan (Lawrence) Mentele. The couple built a life together and went on to have two sons; Tim was born in 1977 followed by Andy in 1981. Reg's greatest gifts aka his "sweethearts", are his four grandchildren: Luke, Brady, Amelia, and Natalie. Reg's eyes lit up when he spoke of his grandkids and their accomplishments, most importantly being strong in their faith and kind young people.

Reggie was proud to be a resident of Mitchell. He was very involved in the community and was honored to serve in various roles including City Council (1994-1999), Park and Rec Board, Parish Council at Holy Family Catholic church, church choir member for over 20 years, and one of the founding fathers of the Mitchell Hockey Association as well as a hockey coach. He served on the Kiwanis Club, Knights of Columbus, was a member of the Elk's Lodge and was a Boy Scout Webelos Leader.  Reg also served as President of Mitchell Board of Realtors.

Reg will be remembered for his strong business mind, and endearing personality. He loved 60's and 70's music and Nascar.  Reg's quick wit and wonderful sense of humor contributed to his gift of storytelling and ability to make people laugh. Reg was happiest when with friends and family, telling stories and reminiscing of days gone by. One of his greatest memories included the time he met and provided transportation for all three Kennedy brothers (and their dog) during the time JFK was in office.

Reg is survived by his wife, Suzan; son, Tim (Anna) Mentele, and granddaughter, Amelia of Sioux Falls; son Andy (Kyra) Mentele, and grandchildren, Luke, Brady, and Natalie of Mitchell; siblings, Jeanne Ledbetter, Plano TX, and Dixie Rivers, Box Elder, SD, E. Steve Mentele of Rapid City, and Laura Mentele of Novato, CA; numerous nieces, nephews, and coffee buddies.

He is proceeded in death by his parents; sister, Kae Box; and brother, Rick Mentele.