CRAIG JAY VASTENHOUT, age 69, of Leota, died Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Dow Rummel Village in Sioux Falls, SD. He was born November 18, 1955, in Luverne, to Wilbur and Katherine (Kroontje) Vastenhout. Craig attended school in Leota until the seventh grade. He then attended school in Edgerton where he graduated in 1973. He attended Vo-Tec in Jackson.

Craig married Delores Vander Vliet at the American Reformed Church in Luverne on September 10, 1976. The couple farmed south of Leota for many years. Along with farming, Craig worked nights at Huisken (Monogram) Meats in Chandler. Farming was more than a job to Craig—it was his passion. He took great pride in tending his crops and raising Charolais cattle.

He enjoyed his morning coffee with Delores, checking the crops and cattle, and catching up on the latest news from neighbors. Craig had a gentle spirit, a good sense of humor, and loved taking rides in his blue truck. He was kind to everyone he met. Life dealt him a tough hand when a stroke took the use of his right side, but he never complained and always made the best of every situation. His strength, courage, and positive outlook inspired everyone who knew him. He never met a stranger and truly enjoyed visiting with people.

Above all, Craig loved his family—especially his grandchildren. He delighted in watching their activities, laughing at their shenanigans, and cheering them on every step of the way.

Craig was a member of Bethel Reformed Church in Leota, where he served as a Deacon. He was also a member of the Rock County Cattleman's Association and treasured the years his daughters were in 4-H. Craig enjoyed trap shooting, hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles and traveling—especially to Mexico—but his heart always led him back home to the Meadow View Ranch, where he was raised and spent most of his life.

Craig is survived by his two daughters, Christina Vastenhout, Hartford, SD; and Nicole (Brian) Larsen, Brandon, SD; five grandchildren, Parker and Macy Menning; Owen Decker, and Knox and Noah Larsen; a brother, Royce (Jenna) Vastenhout, Dell Rapids, SD; in-laws, Dwayne (Brenda) Vander Vliet, Luverne; Lois (Bruce) Beukema of Hayfield; Connie (Giles) Hudson, The Colony, TX; Marilyn (Mark) Long, Larchwood, IA; and Deb (Rick) Renken, Omaha, NE; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Delores on December 27, 2013; and a brother, Bruce Vastenhout.

Visitation will be from 2-5 pm Sunday, Nov. 16, at The Leota Community Church North Campus in Leota. Funeral will be 10:30 am Monday at the Leota Community Church North Campus, in Leota officiated by Pastor Michael Scott. Burial will be in the Leota Community Cemetery.

Dingmann Funeral Home & The Leota Burial Association is in charge of arrangements.