Linda Kay Nowell (Van Der Vorste), “39 and holding,” of Hill City, South Dakota, and Aurora, Colorado, passed away on March 15, 2026, in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Linda was born on March 27, 1946, in Mobridge, South Dakota, to Kathryn (Bauer) and Bernie Van Der Vorste. She was the second of three children.

She grew up in Custer, South Dakota, where she graduated as valedictorian of Custer High School. She went on to attend Black Hills State College, where she was named homecoming queen and graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a minor in Political Science. She later earned her MBA from the University of South Dakota.

Linda married her high school sweetheart, Norman (Norm) Nowell, following her undergraduate studies; the couple later divorced. Over the course of her career, Linda held a variety of roles, including Highway Beautification Agent for the State of South Dakota, Student Financial Aid Director for the School of Nursing in Rapid City, Computer Operations Supervisor at Atlas Press Dressing Corp. in Panorama City, California, Revenue Agent for the IRS, and Auditor for the Rocky Mountain Arsenal in Denver, Colorado. She took great pride in her work and truly enjoyed her career.

Linda will be remembered for her eccentric personality, remarkable strength and determination, quick wit, and her genuine ability to listen. She was a fearless risk-taker who lived unapologetically on her own terms. Linda loved being around people at the local bars, restaurants, or libraries—and found joy in connection wherever she went. She also loved riding her bike and dancing.

She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Patricia Van Der Vorste and Mary Van Der Vorste (Merrill); her nieces, Traci Lynn, Amber, and Kambria; her nephews, Ryan and Ry; and many, many cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her two brothers, Roger and Ralph; and her niece, Tami Jo.

Linda will be deeply missed by her family and friends in South Dakota and Colorado.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who helped and supported Linda—her community and the local businesses she often turned to for help. Though she walked her own path, often with great challenges, she left an imprint on every life she touched that will never be forgotten.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced in coordination with Gold Discovery Days in Custer, South Dakota.

Please make donations in Linda's name to the National MS Society or The Amercian Cancer Society.