Pat McCloud

Patricia L. McCloud, 86, of Highmore, passed away Saturday, July 30, 2022, at Avera St. Mary's Hospital in Pierre surrounded by loved ones.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 4, 2022, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Highmore, with Father Paul Josten, celebrant.  Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Highmore.  Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by a 7:00 p.m. prayer and rosary service, Wednesday, August 3, 2022, all at the church.

Patricia Louise Aesoph was born on November 19, 1935, in Miller, SD, to Leo and Bernice (Baloun) Aesoph.  She grew up on the family farm in Orient attending school there, with one year in Miller, graduating from Orient. 

While growing up on this farm, she met Speed McCloud who was, at the time working for Pat’s cousin, Moses Aesoph.  This courtship ended with marriage on June 14, 1955, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Orient.  Pat and Speed’s marriage was blessed with six children: Bonnie, Bruce, Jim, Carol, Tim, and Mark.

Pat and Speed purchased a small farm north of Highmore, SD in 1961.  She spent her time working the farm with Speed, her father, Leo, and brother, Bob.  These three families working together quickly grew these farms into successful businesses that continue to support multiple families today.

Pat worked as a farmwife for many years.  As their children grew old enough and could help around the farm, she worked as a cook in Highmore at multiple businesses.  She was a member of the Highmore Altar Society and funeral committee, the Red Hats, and the Catholic Daughters for over 30 years.  Pat was well-known for her cooking skills and all the work she accomplished for the church through teaching CCD, organizing many funeral service meals, and cleaning the church and parsonage.    

Pat’s memory will be cherished by her children: Bonnie (the late Gary Wahlen), Bruce (Jane), Carol (Carol), Tim (Jodi), and Mark (Colette); 17 grandchildren; and 37 great grandchildren.

Pat and her beloved husband, Speed were married for 60 years before his passing on March 14, 2016.  She was also preceded in death by her son, Jim; parents: Leo and Bernice Aesoph; three brothers: Bob, Jerry, and Jeff; and one sister, Virginia.

Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Pat's arrangements.