DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Award being accepted by Lynn’s wife, Sylvia, by SDSSA President Dr. Jeff Danielsen

Lynn Vlasman Named SDSSA’s 2018 Distinguished Service Award

Lynn Raymond Vlasman, son of Vernon and Ilene (O’Neill) Vlasman, was born October 16, 1953. He graduated from Hanson High School, earned a bachelor’s degree from USD in Vermillion, Educational Administration degree from SDSU in Brookings, and Specialist degree from USD in Vermillion. He spent many years teaching at the State Training School in Plankinton, followed by school administration at Oldham-Ramona, Tripp-Delmont, and Lyman School Districts. He was involved in the Superintendents Association serving as treasurer for many years and was president his last year in education. Lynn loved his chosen career and he considered his staff members and students a second family.

He enjoyed spending time with family and friends; there were many fond memories of family camping and fishing trips. The evenings always ended with guitar music and singing. As his interest in golf grew, much time was spent on the Lakeview Golf Course with friends. His signature golf tournament (The Windy Open) was held every June at the Parkston Golf Course for over 30 years. Lynn was well known for his humor, always having a story to tell or attempting to “one up” someone with a joke. From the time he was a young man, throughout his entire life, he always enjoyed riding motorcycles, even though he crashed them a few times.

Lynn loved to travel; by cycle, car or plane. He always liked to “keep something on the horizon” earning the nickname “Sir Drives A lot”.

Lynn was united in marriage with his wife, Sylvia Schermann on March 18, 1983, two children blessed the family, Crystal (Ryan) Hofer, Huron, SD and Joshua Vlasman, Fulton, SD. Lynn adored his two grandchildren, Layne and Reed Hofer, Huron, SD. Family vacations and holidays were a special highlight of the Vlasman family.

Lynn passed away on October 26, 2017 after a battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Sylvia, daughter Crystal (Ryan) Hofer, son Joshua Vlasman, grandchildren Layne and Reed Hofer, brother Kevin (Brenda) Vlasman, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Lynn joins his parents Vernon and Ilene Vlasman, his brother Barry Vlasman, and several grandparents in his heavenly home.