Mary Traphagen
Mary Traphagen Obituary
Mary (Carroll) Traphagen, originally of De Smet, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, after a life filled with dedication to family, community, and simple joys.
Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, July 3, 2026, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in De Smet, SD, with Father Richard Baumberger officiating. The service will be livestreamed via the Crawford-Osthus website.
Burial at St. Thomas Cemetery following the service.
Mary was born on January 7, 1948. She attended Johnson County School near De Smet, where she spent her early years. As an adult, Mary made her home in Aberdeen, South Dakota, where she spent the majority of her life and where she helped to care for Pat's children and other family members.
She was known for her strong work ethic and warm presence, working at Milstone Restaurant and later at Northern State University. Beyond her formal work, Mary gave generously of her time caring for several of her nieces and nephews over the years, forming close and cherished bonds with them.
On November 6, 1982, Mary married Doug Traphagen, and together they built a life rooted in companionship and shared interests. Mary especially enjoyed attending Northern State University basketball games, enthusiastically supporting the team. She also treasured evenings spent dancing at The Eagles, where she found happiness in music and community.
In her later years, Mary resided at the Good Samaritan Center in De Smet, where she received compassionate care.
Mary will be remembered for her kindness, her love of family, and the joy she found in everyday moments.
She is survived by her husband, Doug Traphagen; sister, Pat Tyrrell; brother, Tom (Barb) Carroll, along with extended family members and many who were touched by her care and friendship.
Arrangements entrusted to Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Traphagen, please visit our floral store.
Services
July 3, 2026
1:00 PM
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
512 3rd St SW
De Smet, SD 57231
Online Event
In Loving Memory Of
Mary Traphagen
January 7, 1948-June 24, 2026
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