Portrait of Theodore Rosen

Theodore Rosen Obituary, Hurley, SD, SD

1936 – 2025
Age 88

Hurley, SD, SD · Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home

Published:

For 88 years, Theodore touched the lives of those around them.

"To live in hearts we leave behind is to live forever."
— Thomas Campbell
What Theodore loved
MedicineFaithMilitary ServiceGrandchildren

It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Theodore Rosen, 88, of Hurley, SD, SD — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.

These are some of the moments and memories that shaped his story.

Theodore entered this world in 1936 — the start of a journey that would span 89 years.

Theodore spent his working life as ['cab driver for Yellow Cab'] and held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.

Few who serve speak of it freely; those who knew him understood.

Theodore "Ted" Rosen, age 88 of Hurley, SD, passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025 at Pioneer Memorial Nursing Home in Viborg, SD. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 13th at 1:30 PM, at the First Baptist Church in Viborg, SD.Ted was born September 4, 1936, to Salley (Rosen) and Theodore Smalley, and was raised in Denver, Colorado. After graduating from high school in 1954, Ted enlisted in the US Navy and was stationed in San Diego, CA.After serving in the Navy for 18 months, Ted attended Barnes Business School in Denver. Ted worked as a cab driver for Yellow Cab, was employed for 13 years at the Brown Palace Hotel, and served as a security guard for 8 years. Ted and family then moved to Hurley, SD, and he worked at McDonalds for 13 years.Ted and Janet met each other in Denver, and were married in the Chapel of the Mt. View Girl's School on June 2, 1963. To this union six children were born, Linda, Deborah, Michelle, Gary, David, and Daniel.Ted enjoyed watching sports on television, including professional wrestling. As a native of Denver, Ted was an avid Denver Broncos fan. He was also a big fan of the Michigan State college football team.Remaining family are his wife of 62 years, Janet; his children Deborah (Martin) Harris of Colorado Springs, CO; Michelle Ridenour of Colorado Springs, CO; Gary Rosen of Springfield, SD; David (Steve) Becker of Inver Grove Heights, MN; and Daniel and his special friend, Ashley, of Wakefield, MI; his sister, Marlyn Leach of Parker, CO; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and one great great grandson.Preceding him in death were his parents, Salley (Rosen) and Theodore Smalley; his brother, Stanley, and his daughter, Linda.

A Life in Years

1936Born1954After graduatingfrom high school1963View Girl's Schoolon June 22025Passed away

A small gesture in Theodore's memory:

As an affiliate, we may earn a small commission from these links — at no cost to you.

Tributes & Memories

Share a memory, condolence, or story honoring Theodore Rosen.

Need a starting point?

Want to honor Theodore too?

Be the first to share a memory of Theodore Rosen. Your words mean more to the family than you know.

See an error? Suggest a correction

Continue Remembering

Others remembered in Hurley, SD, SD

974 lives remembered