A. J. Lindskov

Funeral services for AJ Lindskov, 71, of Isabel will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the Isabel Community Center. Burial will be at Hillview Cemetery under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home. Visitation will start at 6:30 p.m. on Friday with a prayer service at 7 p.m. at the community center. AJ passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at his home.

It is not how long you live in life; it is the life lived in your years. At 1:30 a.m. on June 24, 1952, Art and Wilma Lindskov welcomed their fifth and youngest child, Arthur James (AJ), into their family at Mrs. Krumrei’s Maternity Home in Isabel. While the youngest of the five children, he would adamantly tell you that he was not the baby in the family. About as soon as he could walk, he started following his dad around. If Wilma and his older sisters wouldn’t let him go along, he would fight, kick and cry until he fell asleep or got his way. AJ shared many fond stories about riding around with his dad in the Willy’s Jeep named Betsy. In the spring, he would ride around with his dad, checking newborn calves and their mothers. Since those early years, AJ always enjoyed springtime - the new life of baby lambs and calves, crocus flowers blooming on the side hills of the prairie at west camp, and the life and beauty of all kinds of nature.

From a young age, AJ enjoyed telling stories. He would often go to town with his dad. Wherever he went, AJ seemed to be the main attraction. His dad’s friends would pump him for answers or get him to tell some wild tale, which he was good at, often adding a few embellishments along the way. The ability to tell and share a good story continued throughout his life.

June 24, 1952 – February 27, 2024

AJ had a few horses that he grew up with and rode along the way: Champ, Lightning, Shambo and Patches to name a few. Steel horses replaced the four-legged horses on the ranch, for the sake of time and distance as well as providing plenty of room for his favorite canine companions.

AJ took pride in raising highquality sheep and cattle and was named a South Dakota Master Lamb Producer in 1995. In 2014, he sold his sheep and expanded his cow herd. He enjoyed caring for his livestock and used Charolais and Angus genetics from the Lindskov-Thiel herd. For decades when AJ and John Meginness’ calves sold back-to-back, the feeders sat up and took notice. They had the reputation and quality to find their way to the top of the market each year.

AJ’s passion for his cattle afforded opportunities to meet other ranchers and cattle feeders from across the fivestate region. His outgoing personality never failed to leave memorable and positive impressions. His knowledge and enthusiasm for the business also influenced many young ranchers.

AJ was proud of his community and was dedicated to preserving its identity and growth. He enjoyed serving others and brought his common- sense approach to many organizations and boards, including Farm Credit Regional Board, Isabel UCC, Isabel Co-op, Isabel Fire Department, Isabel and Timber Lake school boards, and Isabel Rodeo. He was especially proud of his three-year tenure as the Rodeo Association president.

One of AJ’s lifelong gifts was bringing joy and laughter to others. For many years, there was nothing he enjoyed more than helping create a fresh and funny float for the Isabel parade. He and Cindy then took on the job of organizing and promoting the parade, successfully making it a much-anticipated annual event.

On August 25, 1990, he and his wife, Cindy, were married on Main Street in Isabel. He wanted a big wedding, so family, friends, neighbors, and community could come and celebrate with them. They welcomed their daughter, Kelsey, on December 19, 1991, followed by their son, Justin, on April 29, 1996. Just as he was to his community, AJ was a truly dedicated family man. He was proud of his kids and enjoyed supporting them in their many activities. And with the same gusto, AJ took to his more recent role of being Grandpa to Elle.

AJ is survived by his wife, Cindy; his daughter Kelsey (Matt) Menge and granddaughter Elle Grace; his son Justin (Kylie); his brother Ken (Judy) Lindskov; sisters Sheryl Vasek and Marsha (Roger) Weiss, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

AJ is preceded in death by his parents, Art and Wilma Lindskov, brother Gary Lindskov and brotherin-law Leon Vasek.

(Cindy Lindskov’s address is PO Box 265, Isabel, SD 57633.)