Obituary | Marian Sullivan of Sioux Falls

2021 South Dakota Hall of Fame Inductee Marian Delores Sullivan, 94, passed peacefully on May 24, 2023, after a long, courageous battle with breast cancer. She was surrounded by her family and close friends when God took Marian home to be eternally with Him. She looked forward to being reunited with previously passed loved ones and being in the presence of her Lord and Savior who she faithfully served.

Born on July 6, 1928, to Robert and Clara (Winberg) Peterson, she spent her early years in Unityville, SD, joining a family of 2 brothers and 1 sister. Her father passed when she was a young child. Raised by a widowed mother, Marian learned at an early age the value of dedication to God, hard work, and a lifestyle of giving back. She lived most of her early years in Sioux Falls, and attended Washington High School.

In 1950 she graduated from then Sioux Falls College with a major in math. It was at that same institution that she met and married her lifelong partner, Bill Sullivan. Together they raised 5 children and in 1968 started the Sullivan Import Company.

The business grew into a highly successful company and was well known throughout the nation for its giftware products, permanent florals and home décor. Saddened by Bill’s death in 1987, Marian faced the challenge of becoming not only a sole owner, but the great loss of her husband and business partner, Bill.

The business continued to grow, and Marian travelled extensively both nationally and on overseas buying trips. She was admired and respected for her integrity and business acumen by all colleagues who worked with her.

In 1996, Marian’s business savvy was recognized, and she was honored by Entrepreneur Magazine in being selected one of the top entrepreneurs in the United States. That same year, Marian was also the honored recipient of the Governor’s Outstanding Philanthropist award for the State of South Dakota donating to over 160 organizations. In 2009, Gifts and Decorative Magazine listed Marian as one of the top 15 women in the gift industry.

Even though Marian received many awards and accolades for her business prowess, she always kept God, family, and close friends as her life priorities. She shared her life philosophy, business expertise, and generosity with the community three-fold – time, talent, and financial resources. Her philosophy was always more about God and less about her. His gifts to her were used to generously support many projects and organizations within the community with a strong focus on Christian education. Fundamental to all else, this Christian Foundation was the key to a successful life.

She also lent her talents to many boards including Volunteers of America Foundation, Children’s Home Society, Children’s Inn, Central Church, South Dakota Chamber of Commerce, and the University of Sioux Falls.

In 2005, The Faith and Living Center of USF was named for Bill and Marian Sullivan in honor of their overwhelming support of many sponsored projects focusing on advancing Christian doctrine and education. A feature of the center was the hosting of Bible studies for all students attending the University.

Marian’s love for the Lord showed in all aspects of her life. Every step and decision she made in both her personal and business life were based on following God’s plan. Her eyes were first and foremost based on Him. Because of that focus and compassion, many lives came to know Christ as their personal savior, many were educated through Christian schools, many jobs were provided, and many churches and schools were assisted. Lives were changed and uplifted.

Marian was a humble person who enjoyed the simple pleasures such as lunches with her many friends, taking long walks, participating in Bible studies, discussing current events, car excursions with her son, Jim, and B&G ice cream. But especially, she was a loving mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with them. She cherished family dinners at her home where they celebrated special occasions. She rejoiced with them in successes and encouraged them in times of sorrow. Each and every child, grandchild and great grandchild was unique and special in their own way. They were a gift from God, and she held them all dear. She was a true and loyal friend and an encouraging employer. Marian had a loving heart and never spoke unkindly about anyone. She inspired those around her to be their best. One of her favorite verses from John15:5 says “I am the vine. You are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” Remaining steadfast in Him, Marian’s life branched out in countless directions and bore much fruit – some in full bloom and others still in the seed stage. Marian walked her journey with God as her leader, provider and inspiration with the future being His to cultivate.

Marian and her family were especially grateful to Lori, Jason and the staff at Prairie Rehab for their compassionate care for almost 2 years.

Those grateful and blessed for having shared her life are her family: James Sullivan and his daughter Onica, Nancy Sullivan and her children Justin (Sabina) and Renee (Riley) Van Dyke; Kathleen Sullivan, William Sullivan and his children Krissy, Zack and Ryan, Sharon Sullivan and her children Karrie (Stephen) Viereck and Kelly, along with 18 great grandchildren and spiritually adopted son, Roger Anderson.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Clara Peterson, her husband Bill, grandsons Tige and Lee, great grandson Jaxson, two brothers, Don and Burnell Peterson, and sister Lorraine Hall.

Services will be live-streamed by the church at http://centralsf.org/funeral

Via Miller Funeral Home