Quincy Ray “Qray” Kjerstad was born on September 2, 1988, in Rapid City, South Dakota to Kent and Stephanie (Saunders) Kjerstad.

He grew up north of Quinn, SD on his family’s farm with his parents and sisters Natasha, Katrina, and Tiana. Life on the farm helped shape him into a hardworking, dependable, humble, and family-centered man. As the big brother, Quincy fulfilled his duties through plenty of teasing, wrestling matches, and impromptu concerts with all his sisters—memories they will treasure forever. He attended school in Wall, SD graduating in 2007. He excelled in academics, athletics, and extra-curricular activities. Quincy continued his education at SDSU earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics. He then went onto USD School of Law obtaining a Juris Doctor.

On June 11, 2006, he attended a business camp where he met his future wife Krysia Spader. They had an undeniable and immediate connection. Krysia fell for him right away—curly blonde highlighted hair and all. After she told her mom about this prince charming, he was given the name “Quince Charming”. They were united in marriage on June 14, 2013. They have three beautiful daughters Kynsli (11), Kalyse (5), and Karli (4); and two heavenly sons Connor John – 2023 and Colt Ray – 2025.

Quincy was a faithful servant of God and an active member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. He served on the Parish Council and hospitality ministry. He was a co-founder of “Cuffs & Collars,” a prayer group that brought faith and fellowship between law enforcement and Father Andrzej. His faith was not simply something he professed—it was reflected in the way he served, protected, encouraged, and cared for others, especially his family.

A devoted Denver Broncos fan, Quincy brought his passion and competitive spirit into everything. He lit up every room with his unforgettable smile and had a gift for making each person feel special—even when he was teasing them. His quick wit, playful banter, and unmistakable sense of humor brought laughter wherever he went. He loved deeply, served selflessly, and made the lives of those around him brighter.

Above all, Quincy treasured his wife, Krysia, and their precious daughters, Kynsli, Kalyse, and Karli. He embraced every part of being a girl dad, from playing dress-up and wearing tiaras, to painting fingernails and toenails, playing Barbies, performing character impersonations, and shooting hoops with his girls. These were not small moments for Quincy—they were among the greatest joys of his life.

Quincy served as an Assistant Attorney General with the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office for four years. He had numerous accomplishments and victories there including successfully arguing before the SD Supreme Court. In March 2023, he pursued his lifelong dream of becoming a Special Agent with the SD Division of Criminal Investigation. He was assigned to the West River Major Crimes Unit and dedicated himself to felony-level investigations. Quincy was a skilled, diligent, and compassionate investigator who earned the deep respect of his peers. His commitment to justice, compassion for others, and unwavering willingness to help left a lasting impact on the law enforcement community and everyone privileged to work alongside him.

Quincy passed away on September 14, 2026, after suffering a medical event while on duty three days earlier. He is survived by his loving wife, Krysia Kjerstad; his cherished daughters, Kynsli, Kalyse, and Karli; his parents, Kent and Stephanie Kjerstad; and his sisters, Natasha, Katrina (Alex) Thomas, and Tiana (Joe) Gomez. He is also survived by his in-laws, Kevin and Pam Spader; Britton (Katie) Spader and Koby Spader; and his beloved nieces and nephews, Tillman, Landon, Brooke Thomas; Indy, Isla, Baby Boy Gomez; and Veda, Johnny, Gloria Spader. He also leaves behind his grandmothers Patty Kjerstad and Peggy Pourier, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, colleagues, and friends who loved him dearly.

Quincy was preceded in death by his beloved sons, Connor John and Colt Ray. As well as his grandfathers, Richard Kjerstad and Donavon Saunders.