Donald B. Urquhart Leaves Lasting Legacy for Huron Community
September 10, 2025 // Community Savings Account, Donors, Estate Planning
Because of the late Donald Urquhart‘s generosity, local nonprofits will benefit for years to come through the Donald Urquhart Huron Community Fund, a sub fund of the Huron Community Foundation (HCF) held with South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF).
A lifelong Huron native, Don was the only child of Bruce and Pearl Urquhart. From an early age, he showed determination and a strong work ethic—earning recognition from the U.S. Treasury Department for selling over 52,000 war stamps as a teenager. After graduating from Huron High School, Don studied at Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis before serving proudly in the U.S. Army Ordnance during the Korean War era. He later earned an engineering degree from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
Following his education, Don returned to Huron to join the family’s automobile business, D. Urquhart and Sons, founded in 1919. He became well known for his mechanical expertise and dedication to customers, often helping friends and neighbors with their vehicles after hours. Over the years, Don also managed other business ventures before retiring in 1987. Though disciplined with finances, he enjoyed the rewards of travel, concerts, tasty food, and time spent with friends. His adventures took him around the world, from Japan and Germany to cruises and road trips across the U.S.
Don gave generously of his time and talents to the Huron community. He was active in First Presbyterian Church, receiving the Hinen Award for volunteerism, and celebrated more than 70 years as a Mason. Known for his kindness, humility and storytelling, he built a life full of friendship and service. Don will be remembered as a man of accomplishment, a true gentleman and a generous soul whose quiet impact will live on.
Because of his gift to HCF, their local advisory council will make distributions to local charitable causes and nonprofits for years to come with preference given to musical efforts.
To learn more about the Donald Urquhart Huron Community Fund and Huron Community Foundation, please visit https://www.sdcommunityfoundation.org/local-impact/community-foundations/huron-1
HCF was established in 2004 in partnership with SDCF. With careful investment, the fund will continue to grow and enhance quality of life in the local area forever. This fund is one of 85 communities in partnership with SDCF. Individuals, families and organizations can establish their own named fund under the umbrella of HCF with a minimum of $100,000 deposit. Currently there are several named funds that are a legacy to these donors. Donations can be made to any named fund by any donor by contacting HCF.
Established named funds can recommend to HCF of their desire for future grants.
Houstyn Heinz..........................605-354-4257
Steve Charron..........................605-354-4716
Kevin Haber............................605-354-3166
Heather Burns-Huron Rising 2.0 Chairperson….605-354-1719
Kurt Johns..............................605-353-5600
Steve Gohn - President.........605.354.1118
Mary Pearson - Secretary......605-352-4662
Teri Mack................. 605-350-2603
Spencer White-Treasurer......605-353-5830
Sau-Mei Ramos……………………..605-350-6109
Rhonda Kludt-Vice President..605-354-4199
Jane Meekins.......................605-350-0349
Tarin Oyler..................... 817-578-1515
Nancy Schiltz...........................605.354-1501
New New Win……………………605-412-1466
Student Board Members
Charlie Bragg
Hailey Schoenfelder
SDCF is a public nonprofit organization established in 1987. With offices in Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls and Aberdeen, the Foundation administers 1,300 funds benefiting hundreds of charitable organizations annually. Nearly $40 million in grants were distributed in 2024, strengthening communities statewide. This impact is made possible by the generosity of donors. To learn more about creating your own charitable legacy, visit sdcommunityfoundation.org/giving or call 1-800-888-1842.