PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in honor of former state legislator Michael (Mike) Diedrich. He served in the South Dakota State Senate from 1987 to 1990, from 1993 to 1994, and from 2021 to 2024. He also served in the South Dakota State House of Representatives from 2018 to 2020.

“Mike was a ray of positivity in the legislature, and he was my friend. He always focused on the opportunities in front of us,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “He was a strong advocate for his own community, but he balanced that with being a problem solver for the entire state. We will miss him, and we are praying for his family.”

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm MT on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Rimrock Church in Rapid City, SD.

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Gov. Larry Rhoden

Gov. Larry Rhoden

Larry Rhoden is a lifelong West River rancher, a dedicated husband and father, and a proven leader with a record of service for South Dakota. He serves as the 34th Governor of South Dakota. Larry was elected as lieutenant governor alongside Governor Kristi Noem in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. He rose to the office of governor in January 2025.