Dr. George Jenter, affectionately known to many as Doctor Sturgis, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, October 23rd, leaving behind a legacy of compassionate care and community dedication. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and physician, his gentle nature and unwavering commitment touched countless lives in and around Sturgis, South Dakota.
Born on December 10, 1946, in Viborg, SD, to Donald and Marion Jenter, George’s roots were firmly planted in the South Dakota soil. Growing up on a farm near Centerville with his sister Sandra, he embodied the values of hard work and community from a young age. He excelled in football, actively participated in 4-H, and spent time trapping along the Vermillion River, developing a deep connection to the land and its people. His academic journey took him from Centerville High School to the University of South Dakota and finally to Kirksville School of Osteopathic Medicine. Despite his accomplishments, Dr. Jenter remained humble, often describing himself as “just a German farm boy who was lucky enough to go to school.” This humility, combined with his genuine kindness, became a hallmark of his practice as a country doctor.
The call of the West, and perhaps the promise of slightly fewer chores, led Dr. Jenter to Sturgis. As he often joked, “My Dad told me they only did chores once a day out west and I was doing them twice a day.” This move marked the beginning of his enduring legacy as Doctor Sturgis. He established himself as a cornerstone of the healthcare community, initially joining the Massa-Berry Clinic before pioneering rural healthcare access by establishing clinics in Faith and Buffalo, SD. His commitment to serving the underserved further materialized in the creation of the Piedmont Medical Center and the Sturgis Medical Center, solidifying his role as a leading medical figure in the region. His dedication was recognized by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce, who honored him with the Service Business of the Year award. Further highlighting his impact on the community, he was inducted into the Brown High School Hall of Fame for his long-standing support of Sturgis Scooper Athletics. Adding to his diverse contributions, Dr. Jenter also served on the Kansas City Chiefs medical staff in the early 70’s, reflecting his broad range of expertise and dedication even early in his career.
Beyond his medical practice, Doctor Sturgis was a man of many passions. He cherished his family, finding joy in his relationships with his daughter Julie from his marriage to Denise Clark, and later expanding his family with sons Nathan, Marc, and Marty Lynn upon marrying Ellen Jenter in 2002. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting, culminating in the remarkable achievement of completing his Grand Slam of Big Horn Sheep. He generously shared this passion by sponsoring the Annual Youth Pheasant Hunt at the Horse Creek Farm near Newell, fostering the next generation of sportsmen.
However, it was his approach to patient care that truly defined Doctor Sturgis. He will be fondly remembered for his warm smile and comforting words as he entered patient rooms, invariably asking, “What can I do to make your day better?” This simple yet profound question encapsulated his philosophy of medicine – to not only heal the body but also uplift the spirit.
Dr. Jenter was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Marion, and his brother-in-law, Gary Hanson. He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen; daughters, Julie (Marty) Plaggemeyer and Marty Jolley (Heidi Valer); sons, Marc (Haley) Jolley and Nathan (Shonda) Jolley; sister, Sandra Hanson; 11 grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials in George’s honor can be directed to organizations that reflected his commitment to the Sturgis community:
Greater Sturgis Lifecare Foundation
2315 Pine Glenn Dr.
Sturgis, SD 57785
Sturgis Booster Club
1230 Douglas St.
Sturgis, SD 57785
