Alice Scranton, 85

Alice Scranton, of Rapid City, SD, passed away May 10, 2021, at the Monument Health Hospice House at the age of 85.

Alice was the sixth child born to John and Marie (Krull) Mayer on the family farm in Buffalo County, SD. She attended school in a one room school house in Gann Valley, SD, until her sophomore year, then graduated from Provo High School in Igloo, SD in 1953. She attended Black Hills Teachers College in Spearfish, SD where she met her husband, Ronald Scranton. They were married October 22, 1954 and celebrated 66 years together last fall. During their life together, they lived in 57 different homes in five states. Alice’s only regret was she didn’t own stock in a moving company!

Together with her husband, Ron, she raised four children and worked alongside him in a number of business ventures. As a former owner of Piesano’s Pacchia in Rapid City, she will always be remembered as a master and commander of the restaurant’s kitchen and was proud to have been told by local health inspectors that she had the cleanest restaurant they had ever seen.

Alice was a strong, loving and present influence in the lives of her children and grandchildren. Spending time with her great grandchildren was one of her greatest joys, especially during her extended stay in Hospice House. Holiday celebrations, birthdays and other family gatherings were always made special, especially for the grandchildren. From homemade pilgrim hats or bunny ears, to spontaneous parades and goofy games, those who were invited to her home never knew what shenanigans to expect, but could always count on her wide smile, infectious laugh, lots of hugs and kisses, and a delicious meal.

Alice is survived by her husband, Ron, of Rapid City; son Steve (Cindy) Scranton of Sidney; daughters Jodi (Allen) McCray of Norfork, AR, Joyce Scranton of Rapid City, and Jeri (Keith) Whites of Dayton, OH; grandchildren Robert Joseph, Shelley Borchers, Casey Skyberg, Ryan Scranton, Brianna Berney, Matt Scranton and Kyle Scranton; great grandchildren, Corbin and Sophie Skyberg, Blake and Halle Borchers, Cruz and Lennon Joseph, Hattie, Mack and Jett Scranton, and Atreyu Villanueva; and, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Alice selflessly donated her body to the University of South Dakota Medical School. A celebration of her life is planned next year when her remains are returned to her family. Memorials may be made to Monument Health Hospice House, 214 Elk Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701.