Deana Gislason

Dates

Obituary

Deana Gislason, 81, of Mitchell, SD, a lifelong resident of Mitchell and a woman known for her dedication to her family and her work, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Aurora-Brule Nursing Home in White Lake. Visitation will be Monday, February 2, from 5-7:00 PM at Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Deana Lou Gislason was born July 10, 1944, to Albert and Marie (Metzinger) McGee, in Mitchell, SD. Deana possessed a restless spirit in her younger years. She spent time traveling the country, experiencing life in California, West Virginia, and Minnesota before eventually finding her way back to her roots in Mitchell.

Deana was a familiar face in the Mitchell workforce for many years. She spent a significant portion of her career as a secretary at Disco Seeds, followed by many years serving others at Firesteel Nursing Home as a CNA and scheduler.

When she wasn't working, Deana found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid fan of Elvis Presley and could often be found immersed in a puzzle, a diamond painting, or a favorite game on Facebook. Above all else, her greatest joy was her family.

Deana is survived by her son, Erik (Jill) Gislason; the light of her life, her granddaughter, Lili Gislason; and her sister, Darlene (Dave) Lenocker.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Marie McGee; her brothers, Denny and Donny; and her ex-husband, Julian Gislason.

Visitation(s)