The City of Sturgis and Meade County have jointly proclaimed June 10 as “Kevin Forrester Day,” honoring the life, leadership, and decades of public service of former Sturgis Mayor Kevin Forrester, who passed away Sunday following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
The observance will coincide with the first Sturgis Music on Main event of the summer, providing an opportunity for the community to gather and celebrate Forrester’s legacy. Flags across Meade County have been lowered to half‑staff in his memory and will remain lowered through the day following his memorial service.
The proclamation was issued earlier this month by Tony Dargatz, Mayor Pro Tempore of Sturgis, and Gary Deering, Chair of the Meade County Commission. Formal readings will take place at the upcoming Sturgis City Council meeting on April 6 and the Meade County Commission meeting on April 14.
Forrester, 58, was a lifelong Sturgis resident who served 28 years with Meade County as Facility Manager and IT Director. He joined the Sturgis City Council in 2021 and became mayor in October 2024. He resigned on March 24 due to declining health.
Throughout his career, Forrester was known for his steady leadership, commitment to public service, and dedication to preserving the character of Sturgis while supporting long‑term community growth. His service extended beyond local government through regional and federal advisory roles, where he advocated for responsible stewardship of the Black Hills and access to natural resources.
The proclamation recognizes his professional accomplishments, his devotion to family, and the lasting impact he made on the people of Sturgis and Meade County.
Memorial service details will be announced at a later date.
