This legislative commemoration honors the life and service of former Representative Dr. Donald Dean Van Etten, who passed away on September 23, 2024, at the age of ninety. Dr. Van Etten was born on March 10, 1934, in Orange City, Iowa, and pursued a career in medicine, completing his education at the University of Iowa School of Medicine. He and his wife, Verla Jean Vanderbush, dedicated part of their lives to missionary work in the Middle East before returning to the U.S., where Dr. Van Etten practiced surgery in Mason City and later in Rapid City, South Dakota. He served in the South Dakota House of Representatives from 2001 to 2008, where he held significant roles, including chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee.

The commemoration expresses the Legislature's condolences to Dr. Van Etten's family, recognizing his contributions to the state and the impact he made through his medical and legislative careers. The resolution reflects the appreciation of the One Hundredth Legislature of the State of South Dakota for Dr. Van Etten's dedication to serving the people of South Dakota throughout his life.