Arla Roduner, age 98 of Alcester, South Dakota passed away on May 17, 2023. Born in 1924, Arla, a true mid-western girl, grew up on a farm in Alcester, SD with her parents Leonard and Ellen Sternquist and siblings Marion, Orland, and Wilma. Arla went to Cole School in Union County and Alcester High School.

Arla became a teletype operator in San Francisco during World War II. On November 4,1945, Arla married Maynard Roduner. They spent their early years of marriage in Mitchell, South Dakota and Dakota City, NE, where they had five children. Shortly after their last son was born, Arla and Maynard moved to Alcester, where they lived and worked on a family farm. Arla raised her five children while taking care of daily farm responsibilities. During her children's formative years, Arla encouraged them to continue their education, and she greatly enjoyed watching her children grow into successful and loving adults. Later, Arla worked as an assistant cook at the local nursing home until she retired. Arla and Maynard moved into a home in Alcester in 1967. After Maynard passed away in 1999, Arla moved to her final home in Alcester, where she remained until her death.

Throughout her life, Arla was a fixture at Nathanael Lutheran Church. She was a part of the fourth generation of Swedish farmers who called Nathanael their home. The Swedish families would have large Christmas Eve celebrations, with several generations in attendance, and would enjoy authentic Swedish foods, followed by a church service at Nathanael Lutheran Church. Arla, who was baptized, confirmed, and married at the church, was proud to be one of its oldest members. Arla also led the Nathanael Quilters group, where she volunteered thousands of hours creating quilts for various organizations, including U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan and the Lutheran World Relief.

Arla also enjoyed reading and working on crossword puzzles. She was known throughout town for her sharp humor and quick wit, even in her final days. Arla is survived by her children: Linda Kolstad and her husband Toby, Larry Roduner and his wife Barbara, Kathleen Roduner, Richard Roduner and his wife Mary, and Lloyd Roduner. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her husband, parents, siblings, and daughter-in-law preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 A.M. Monday, May 22, 2023 at Nathanael Lutheran Church in Alcester with interment to follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Alcester. Lunch will be provided at the church. Visitation will be Sunday, May 21 from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Nathanael Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Nathanael Lutheran Church.