Waubay: Timothy "Tim" Kwasniewski, Waubay, passed away at his home in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., Jan. 3, 2013. Services were held in Webster on Jan. 11, 2013.
Tim was born in Webster on June 14, 1951, to Frank and Florence (Becht) Kwasniewski. He graduated from Webster High School and soon after moved to St. Paul, Minn., where he worked with his brother-in-law as a journeyman painter.
Tim was residing in St. Paul when he was united in marriage to Patricia (Cantwell) Kwasniewski on May 19, 1973, in Webster.
His 30-year career in law enforcement began in Mobridge as a police officer for the city. From there, he took a position as special assistant attorney general with the South Dakota State Drug Enforcement Unit. Wanting to get off the road, he then went to work for the Day County Sheriff's office as a deputy and then on to work for State Radio Communication as a communications specialist. He retired from law enforcement as chief of police for the city of Milbank in 2009.
Having worked side by side with the city administrator in Milbank, he was asked to take the position of interim city administrator. He retired, a second time, from that position in 2011. Taking great pride in his work, Tim made notable improvements for the good of others in all of the positions he held.
One of Tim's biggest interests was his love for aviation. He was a licensed pilot who loved spending time at the airport and in the air. Tim also enjoyed carpentry and, over the years, he and his wife, Pat, completely remodeled several homes. His proudest accomplishments were the two homes that he built from the ground up on Enemy Swim Lake. He and Pat took great pleasure in spending time at the lake with Gregg and Preston. They thoroughly enjoyed watching their nieces, nephews, and all of the youngsters as they learned to water ski.
Tim loved South Dakota, but not the cold that winter brings, so he and Pat bought a home in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., where they spent the last few years.
Tim was very well-respected and sought out by many on a variety of topics. His knowledge, willingness to help others, and a quick wit is what distinguished his character.
Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Pat; son, Gregg; and grandson, Preston Kwasniewski; one brother, Ed Kwasniewski; six sisters: Alice Gebur, Dorothy (Stanley) Rye, Delphine Kwasniewski, Elaine Erdman, Zita Snaza, and Edie Harsche; many nieces, nephews, and good friends, as well as his special companions, T.J. and Buffy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Juliene Miller.
Coester Funeral Home, Webster was entrusted with the arrangements.
coesterfuneralhome.net