Russell Arthur Daugherty
Russell Arthur Daugherty, 90, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, formerly of Aberdeen, South Dakota, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2026. In his later years, Russell resided at the Good Samaritan Society in Canton, South Dakota.
Russell was born December 15, 1935, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Herschell and Gertrude (Youman) Daugherty. He grew up in Aberdeen and graduated from Central High School in 1954. Following high school, Russell proudly served his country in the United States Army until 1957.
On May 16, 1959, Russell married the love of his life, Darlene Liedle. Together, they built a life, a family, and a business that would become an important part of Russell's story.
Russell began working for Aberdeen Lumber in 1957. In 1965, he and Darlene took a leap and started Daugherty Construction Company, building residential and commercial projects throughout the area. Always looking for the next opportunity, Russell expanded the company into swimming pools in 1977. Over the years, he installed more than 110 pools throughout the area.
After more than three decades of building his business, Russell sold the company and retired in 1998. Retirement gave him more time for the things he enjoyed, including cheering on his beloved Minnesota Vikings.
Above all else, Russell's greatest pride and joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. Some of the best memories were made doing the simple things together—going fishing, getting ice cream, spending time in the pool, or simply hanging out with Grandpa. Those moments became memories his family will carry with them for years to come.
Russell was also a longtime member of Sacred Heart Church in Aberdeen.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Scott, and daughter-in-law, Kris (Herges) Daugherty of Sioux Falls; his grandchildren, Hanna (Ben) Rode, Jake (Becky Persing) Daugherty, and Erin Daugherty; his great-grandchildren, Atlas and Hercules Daugherty and Calvin Rode; along with many extended family members and friends.
Russell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Darlene; his parents, Herschell and Gertrude Daugherty; his sister, Arlene Dewalt; and his brothers, Richard and Robert Daugherty.
Russell leaves behind a life defined by hard work, family, and the many things he built along the way. While the homes, businesses, and swimming pools he constructed remain part of his legacy, the memories he built with the people he loved will be the ones that endure.