Earl James Faatz was born December 2, 1948 at Burke, South Dakota to Albert and Louise (Gall) Faatz and he died January 8, 2006 in a car accident south of Bonesteel, South Dakota at the age of 57 years, 1 month and 6 days.

Earl made his home on the family farm all of his life. He attended 12 years of school at the Naper Public School. He loved his animals, his dogs Panda and Sparky were the center of his life. He loved his bohemian music. He was a member of the First United Church of Christ in Naper. He enjoyed being around and having fun, and he was known by his hardy laughter and giggle.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Louise; by his brother, Marvin and by his sister, Lorreta.

Earl is survived by his brother, Wayne of Bonesteel, SD; his sister, Grace and Herman Bendig of Naper, NE; his nephews and spouses: Harold and Mary Faatz, Allen and Terri Faatz, Steve and Denise Faatz, Clinton Faatz, Kenny and Beth Bendig, and Kelly and Monica Bendig; his nieces and spouses: Elaine and Kevin Wenner, Cindy and Randy Klinger, Linda and Dwayne Dyre, Susan and Brian Bennett; as well as a host of other family members and friends.

Earl will be missed by many.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 2:30 PM at the Congregational Church in Naper, NE. Burial will be in the Knollcrest Cemetery, Naper. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the services at the church.