Cynthia Cindy Appelt

Cynthia (Cindy) J. Appelt (nee Johnson) of Brookings passed away at the age of 79 on Dec. 23, 2024, in Sioux Falls, SD.
Cindy was born in Boise, Idaho on April 24, 1945. Raised in the military, she lived in many places including Guam and Japan. In 1963, she graduated from the Air Force Academy High School and headed to the University of South Dakota in Vermillion and home to her grandparents. At USD, she joined Kappa Alpha Theta sorority along with her mother, sister, and eventually her daughter. There, Cindy met her husband of 58 years, Arnie Appelt. They were married Aug. 15, 1966, in Alexandria, MN. Cindy was an avid reader, dog lover, and fisherperson and enjoyed all three at her favorite place, the family lake cottage, which she considered home and the place she married, held family gatherings, and knew her grandkids were the fifth generation to similarly love it.
Cindy believed strongly that youth are our future and touched many lives during her 35 years as a 4-H dog obedience leader and 14 years with the Boy/Cub Scouts. She was a faithful and avid Eastern Star Member serving as worthy matron, perpetual treasurer, and in other offices including as wife (and traveling partner) of a SD Worthy Grand Patron.
She is survived by her husband, Arnie; son, Christopher; daughter, Jennifer Hart (Michael J. Hart IV); and her grandchildren, Michael J. Hart V, Nathaniel Appelt, and Kenlyn Hart.
One of her final requests was that her granddaughter play taps at her memorial service. Therefore, Cindys family invites you to join them for an informal (come as you are) memorial gathering at St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Brookings (726 Sixth St.) on Monday, Dec. 30. Visitation will begin at 3:30 p.m. with a memorial and Eastern Star service beginning at 4:30 p.m. followed immediately by light refreshments.