Sally Glenn Kritenbrink

Sally Glenn Kritenbrink, age 85, passed away peacefully on November 12th. She was born on March 28, 1940, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, to Glen and Sarah Shay. She grew up in Belle Fourche and proudly graduated from Belle Fourche High School. After graduation, she fulfilled her dream of traveling and spent time exploring Europe; an experience she cherished throughout her life.

Upon returning home, she married the love of her life, Roger, on February 7, 1959. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three children: Julie, Steve, and Michael. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roger, in November 2020; her parents, Glen and Sarah, with whom she shared a deep and lasting bond that shaped much of her life; and her two brothers, Robert and Owen, who were constant companions and sources of support throughout her early years.

Sally believed deeply in the power of love and forgiveness, and she lived those values every day. Her strong faith in God guided her life, sustaining her through both joyful seasons and difficult ones, and she used that faith to encourage others with compassion and grace. She was an active and devoted mother who faithfully supported her children in their activities; attending countless band and choir concerts, sporting events, including standing in snowbanks to watch her sons play hockey, and serving as a Den Mother for Cub Scouts. She was always there for her children whenever they needed her, offering comfort, encouragement, and unconditional love.

Sally was also deeply committed to her community and church. She dedicated decades of service to PEO, as well as devoting time with her church circle, United Methodist Women, Bible studies, and the United Methodist Youth Fellowship (UMYF). She took great joy in nurturing friendships, mentoring younger members, and helping others grow in faith and fellowship, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

She cherished her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding joy in every laugh, hug, and story shared. She especially looked forward to their summer visits throughout the years and took great pride in following their interests, accomplishments, and activities as they grew older. Her family was her proudest accomplishment, and she poured her heart into making each of them feel unconditionally loved. Sally also shared an extraordinary bond with her sister, Donna; one shaped by a lifetime of memories, loyalty, and devotion.

She had a wonderful spark to her personality that made her unforgettable. We all adored her not only for her kindness and unwavering support, but also for the bit of snarkiness that made her funny, relatable, and uniquely Sally. She loved life’s simple pleasures and never missed a chance to enjoy a Wendy’s Frosty, good chicken wings, or a margarita whenever possible. Moments like those; shared laughs, shared treats, and her playful spirit, will forever remind us of the joy she brought wherever she went.

She is survived by her children: Julie (James), Steve (Jeanette), and Michael (Mary); her grandchildren: Jelissa, Gregory, Jacey, Maleah, Saylor, McKelle, James Jr., Jestin, and Preston; her great-grandchildren: Chase, Maverick, Tate, Cora, Malik, Michael, Kathleen, Miller, Robert, Merida, and William; and her sister, Donna. She is also survived by many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Sally will be remembered for her generous spirit, her resilience, and the warmth she extended freely to others. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved so fiercely and in the faith she carried so deeply.

A celebration of life will be held in South Dakota a later date.