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Obituaries

Journey to the Spirit World

This page serves as a space to honor and remember the lives of our tribal members who have passed away. Here, we come together as a compassionate and supportive community to pay tribute to their legacies.

Obituary picture of Theresa Flute
Theresa Flute

Born: February 2, 1959

Journeyed to the Spirit World: February 9, 2023

Theresa Flute, 64, of Flandreau, passed away on February 9, 2023, at the Avera Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls.  Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at Eastman Hall in Flandreau at 12:00 P.M.  Burial will immediately follow the service at the First Presbyterian Cemetery in Flandreau.  An all-night wake service will be held the evening prior, Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Eastman Hall beginning at 2:00 P.M.  Skroch Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Theresa Sue Flute was born on February 2, 1959, to Howard S. and Anna L (Decora) Flute in Iowa City, Iowa.  Theresa attended school in Sioux City, Iowa, marrying Brent G. Hoffman in 1977.  In 1995, Theresa moved to Flandreau, South Dakota where she lived until the time of her passing.

Theresa had many loves and interests throughout her life.  She was very athletic, and her fearless nature led her to become one of the few women champion boxers in her area.  She especially enjoyed martial arts, attending Nationals in the area of Judo.  Theresa was deeply spiritual, remaining connected to her Native American traditions throughout her life.  She attended many Sundance ceremonies and Inipi each year.  Working for the Royal River Casino for over 22 years, and Native Nations Cannabis for 2 years, Theresa possessed a very strong work ethic.  Although she enjoyed working, Theresa also had a fun-loving side.  A member of the high roller club at Royal River, Theresa greatly enjoyed spending time gambling-perhaps because she had such good luck!  She also enjoyed shopping, traveling with family, coffee, and chocolate.  Perhaps her greatest love in life was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Theresa is survived by her daughter, Sara (Rogelio Sr.) Deluna, of Sioux City, IA; grandchildren: Lilly Torres, Ana Deluna, Maria Deluna, and Rogelio Deluna Jr.; siblings: John Flute, Della Flute, Howard S. Flute Jr., and Keith Decora.

She is welcomed by her mother and father; daughter, Athena Vargas; son, Rico Vargas; and brother, Ricky Flute.