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Jacqueline “Jackie” Etta Block, 80, of South Whitley, passed away at 6:58 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at her home.
Born on Feb. 16, 1946, in Denver, Colo., she was a daughter of the late Henry M. and Dora O. Cantrall Sordahl. Growing up in Deadwood, S.D., she graduated from Deadwood High School in 1964. She continued her education at National Business School in Rapid City, S.D., where she earned an associate’s of business administration.
In 1975, she moved to South Whitley, where she worked for Johnson Brothers Sign Company as a layout designer.
In addition to her work, she raised two children and cared for two stepchildren.
Talented artistically, in addition to sign layouts, she created neon glass-tube layouts and charcoal drawings in her leisure time. With her talents, she learned to make wood furniture that adorned her home.
An accomplished seamstress, she designed and made dresses, making her own wedding dress.
With her roots in South Dakota, she was a passionate promoter of the mountains of western South Dakota and offered travel advice to those making the trip. When her grandkids arrived, they became her pride and joy.
She was a member of the Amvets Post 2919 Ladies Auxiliary in South Whitley.
Surviving are her children, Dayna Lude, of Pierceton; and Robert Block, of Hermosa, S.D.; stepchildren, Tracy (Brenda) Arnio, of Gillette, Wyo.; and Tina (Timothy) Cartier, of Rapid City, S.D.; eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a brother, Blain Sordahl, of Rapid City, S.D.; and a stepsister, Sharon (Ward) Dye, of Rapid City, S.D.
Additionally, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Verna Persinger and Vicki Davis; and her nephew, Shawn Persinger.
Visitation was from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1 at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. After cremation, Jackie will be returned to her home state of South Dakota.
Memorials in Jackie’s honor are to Amvets Post 2919, South Whitley.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
