Gene Garvin Fastnacht, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, and steadfast friend, passed away on May 5, 2026, at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital, at the age of 79. Services to celebrate Gene’s life will be held at the First United Methodist Church, Pierre SD. Visitation will be on Thursday, May 14th from 5-7pm with a small service starting at 7pm. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 15th at 10am, with a luncheon to follow.
Gene was born on March 3, 1947, in Miller, South Dakota, to Elvin and Solita Fastnacht. He was raised on the family ranch in Gann Valley, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and faith, principles that guided him throughout his life. He was the youngest of two children, growing up alongside his beloved older sister, Carole Fastnacht Hurley.
He attended Wessington Springs High School, where he met the love of his life, Gloria Jean Myers. Their connection was instant and enduring. On March 23, 1968, Gene and Gloria were united in marriage, beginning a 57year journey grounded in love, faith, and deep devotion to one another. Together, they built a life on the family ranch in Gann Valley, raising two children, supporting each other’s dreams, and standing side by side through every joy and hardship. Gloria passed away in February 2025, and Gene’s heart remained with her until the very end. Their bond was one of unwavering loyalty and love, a testament to what a lifelong marriage could be.
In addition to his work on the ranch, Gene served his country with pride as a member of the South Dakota National Guard. He joined in 1965 and served until 1971 as part of the 153rd Engineer Battalion. His time in uniform reflected the same dedication, discipline, and sense of duty that defined every aspect of his life.
Gene was a man of quiet strength, a caring heart for many, and deep faith. He spent much of his life as a steward of the ranch that had been built by his grandparents and lovingly passed down through generations. He took pride in continuing that legacy, pouring his energy into every calving season, harvest, and fence line. He worked the ranch until the early 1990s, when he and Gloria began a new chapter by transitioning to Wessington Springs. There, Gene held a few different jobs, but the one he loved most was his work with AMKOTA COOP. In that role, he served the farmers and ranchers of the Wessington Springs community with knowledge, hard work, and laughter.
Gene believed deeply in giving back to his community. He served on the Wessington Springs School Board for a number of years, including time as board president. In that role, he approached decisions with steady judgment and a sincere commitment to the students and families of the district. Education held a special place in his heart, influenced by the legacy of his grandmother and mother, both of whom were educators.
In recent years, Gene and Gloria moved to Pierre, South Dakota, where they continued to extend their warmth and generosity to new neighbors and friends. Whether it was offering a helping hand or simply brightening someone’s day with conversation, they quickly became known for their kindness and welcoming spirit.
Gene’s love and generosity reached far beyond South Dakota. Over the course of 19 mission trips to Haiti, he dedicated himself to building schools, teaching, and lifting up those with less. Working through United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM) and Solar Oven Partners, he not only served faithfully as a member of these mission efforts, but also became a trusted team leader. His work there was a reflection of his deep compassion, humble leadership, and lifelong belief in service to others.
He is survived by his son, Jeff (Lisa) Fastnacht of Bismarck, North Dakota; his daughter, Seanna (Bill) Regynski of Pierre, South Dakota; his four cherished grandchildren: Katelyn Fastnacht, Bailey (Taylor) Longfox, Joshua Fastnacht, and Taeler Regynski; and his great-grandson, Tayvon Longfox. He is also survived by his sister, Carole Hurley; his sister-in-law, Laura (Jim) Sletten of Webster, South Dakota; and his sister-in-law, Marji Myers of Northglenn, Colorado, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria; his parents, Elvin and Solita Fastnacht; and his in-laws, Lawrence and Vera Myers, as well as other cherished family members.