History of the South Dakota Rural Water Hall of Fame

The Rural Water Hall of Fame was established to honor the visionary leaders and dedicated individuals who have made lasting contributions to the rural water industry in our state. The inaugural induction occurred on November 13, 2024, during our Leadership Seminar at the Ramkota Hotel in Pierre, SD.

Created to preserve and celebrate the legacy of those who helped shape and advance rural water, the Hall of Fame serves as both a tribute and a source of inspiration for future generations. Inductees are recognized for their outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to improving access to safe and reliable water for rural communities.
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The Hall of Fame is housed at the SDARWS headquarters in Madison, SD, and is highlighted below, ensuring broad access to these impactful stories and the enduring history of rural water excellence.

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If you would like to nominate someone for the South Dakota Rural Water Hall of Fame - please click the button below.
​Submissions are due by August 1.

SOUTH DAKOTA HALL OF FAME NOMINATION FORM

South Dakota Rural Water
​Hall of Fame Inductees

Morris Kurle

​​Inducted November 19, 2025

In the mid-1970s, as small communities and farms across northern South Dakota faced severe water shortages, Morris Kurle joined local leaders in pursuing a bold vision. This regional water system would deliver Missouri River water to rural areas. In 1978, he became the first chairman of the WEB Water Development Association, guiding the fledgling project through years of planning, coordination, and advocacy. Under his leadership, WEB Water overcame countless challenges to secure federal authorization and funding, ultimately becoming the first Bureau of Reclamation funded water project in the country, and one of the largest rural water systems in the state.
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Morris’ leadership helped lay the foundation for an organization that today provides water to thousands of homes, farms, and towns across northeast South Dakota. His steady guidance, professionalism, and belief in cooperation inspired confidence among local, state, and federal partners and made WEB Water a model for rural water development nationwide.

He was born on October 23, 1926, in Bowdle, South Dakota. After graduating from Bowdle High School in 1944, Morris attended South Dakota State University, majoring in engineering, before serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. After returning home, he joined his family’s business, J. Kurle and Sons, in Bowdle, where he worked for nearly 50 years before retiring at age 85. He married Patricia Venoy Schumacher in 1951, and together they raised two children.

Morris continued to support rural water throughout his life, remaining an advocate for collaboration and innovation in community water systems. He passed away on October 15, 2021, leaving behind a stronger, better South Dakota.

Larry Wasland

​Inducted November 19, 2025

​A lifelong farmer and rancher, Larry dedicated his life to strengthening rural South Dakota. His commitment to rural water spanned nearly four decades, beginning in 1984 when he joined the Clark Rural Water System Board. Over the years, he served as Treasurer and as the system’s representative to the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS), where his leadership helped guide the state’s growing network of water providers.

Elected Vice President of the SDARWS Board in 2004, Larry later represented South Dakota on the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) Board of Directors from 2007 to 2023. At the national level, he was a steadfast advocate for clean drinking water, sound policy, and strong rural infrastructure – ensuring South Dakota’s voice was heard in Washington, D.C.

Larry’s dedication earned him the Carroll Anderson Memorial Award in 2009 and the Spirit of Rural Water Award in 2022. His tireless service and unwavering belief in the importance of rural water left an enduring impact on communities across the state and nation.

Born on June 30, 1948, in Watertown, South Dakota, Larry grew up on the family farm near Wallace and pursued an agricultural education at South Dakota State University. He and his wife, Lorene, built a life rooted in family and community – raising two children and later welcoming three grandchildren.

Larry passed away on May 17, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of dedication and service to rural South Dakota.

Dan Carlson

Inducted November 19, 2025

Born in Le Mars, Iowa, and raised in Paullina, Dan Carlson built a lifelong legacy of leadership and dedication to South Dakota’s rural water industry. After attending Morningside College in pre-engineering, Dan transferred to South Dakota State University, where he majored in Civil Engineering before switching to Ag Engineering, specializing in Mechanized Agriculture, graduating in January 1966. While at SDSU, he met his wife, Sharon; the two married in August 1965 and later welcomed two children, Brett and Michelle, along with four grandchildren.
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Following graduation, Dan and Sharon moved to Lake Madison, where he began working in the Engineering Department at Sioux Valley Energy. It was there that Dan attended an organizational meeting led by Loren Paulsen about the Big Sioux Water Project. When Dan inquired about extending service to Lake Madison – four miles beyond the proposed boundary – Paulsen agreed but noted they also needed a director. Dan stepped up, beginning what would become an extraordinary 50-year tenure on the Big Sioux Community Water System Board, serving as its president for many years.

Dan’s leadership extended statewide through his service on the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS) Board of Directors. Elected Vice President in 2007 and President in 2008, he guided the Association for seven years, overseeing tremendous growth, including facility expansions, financial stability, new safety and emergency response programs, and strengthened legislative advocacy. His dedication was recognized through numerous honors, including the 2008 Carroll Anderson Memorial Award and the Spirit of Rural Water Award in both 2016 and 2022. Dan Carlson’s commitment to rural water and his community continues to inspire all who follow in his footsteps.

Raymond Kuhl

Inducted November 13, 2024

Born on August 8, 1933, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Ray Kuhl was a dedicated advocate for rural community development and improvement. A St. Thomas College baseball scholarship recipient, Ray completed his degree at South Dakota State University while serving as an ROTC officer, eventually joining the Air National Guard.

Ray began his life with his wife, Jacqueline, in Waco, Texas, where he trained as an Airborne Combat Navigator during the Cold War. His commitment to service was recognized by Veterans Affairs, reflecting his pride in his military contributions.
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Ray’s passion for community service led him to East River Electric Power Cooperative in Madison, South Dakota, and later to Sioux Valley Empire Electric. Over his 12 years at Sioux Valley, Ray became a prominent public relations director and helped establish the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems. He advised the association from its inception and served as the management coordinator for the Big Sioux Community Water System.
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In 1977, Ray was named Executive Manager and Training Director of the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems, pioneering a statewide training program for rural water management. His leadership connected countless farmers with clean, reliable water sources, enhancing livestock health and quality of life for rural families. Ray’s efforts laid the foundation for rural water systems across South Dakota, collaborating with local leaders to drive community and economic development.
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Ray’s lifelong dedication to rural water systems profoundly impacted South Dakota’s water landscape. Ray Kuhl passed away on December 9, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of community dedication and service.

William "Bill" Dempsey

​Inducted November 13, 2024

Affectionately known as Bill to friends and Bud to family, Bill Dempsey was pivotal in pioneering rural water development in South Dakota. Born near Athboy, SD, in 1932 Bill graduated from White High School in 1950. In 1951, he joined the Air Force, serving as a radio operator during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he returned to South Dakota and married his wife, Ellen, in 1954. Together, they settled on the family farm near White, where they raised cattle, hogs, and row crops for over 30 years.
 
Bill’s journey in rural water began in 1972 when he convened with local leaders around his kitchen table to address water issues in their community. This grassroots effort led to the formation of the Brookings-Deuel Rural Water System, with Bill serving as its first chairman and establishing a solid foundation for its success. He was also present at the organizational meeting for the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS) in Madison, SD, in October 1972. He later served as President of SDARWS for three years, secretary for three years, and developed an insurance program for rural water systems.
 
In 1976, Bill attended the inaugural meeting of the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) in Oklahoma City. There, he was elected to its Board of Directors and represented South Dakota for 11 years. In recognition of his contributions, Bill was awarded the first Carrol Anderson Award in 1978. He also held leadership roles with the East Dakota Water Development District and the South Dakota Conservation Commission.
 
After retiring in 2002, Bill’s legacy of service continues to benefit communities across the state. He passed away on March 29, 2018, leaving behind a remarkable impact on South Dakota’s rural water landscape.

Raymond "Dale" Kennedy

​​Inducted November 13, 2024

Raymond Dale Kennedy was born on April 8, 1925, in Beresford, SD, and graduated from Beresford High School in 1943. He worked at a California aircraft parts plant during WWII, served in the U.S. Army in Germany post-war, and briefly attended SDSU before returning to farming. As a young man, Dale was invited to try out for the Brooklyn Dodgers, but farm duties took priority.
 
Dale played a pioneering role in bringing rural water to Lincoln County and became a charter director when the system launched in 1976. In 1977, Dale joined the SDARWS Board, representing South Lincoln Rural Water System. Serving as secretary for the South Dakota Board of Water and Natural Resources, he helped allocate state funds and shape the state water plan across three gubernatorial administrations.
 
In 1987, Dale was nominated and elected as South Dakota’s director on the National Rural Water Association Board at the NRWA Annual Meeting in Charleston, SC. Known for his initiative and vision, Dale chaired 50 board meetings, 12 annual meetings, and numerous executive sessions. His volunteer advocacy in Pierre during legislative sessions was instrumental in advancing rural water initiatives.
 
A friend and champion of rural water in South Dakota, Dale was known for his “political” touch – earning the playful nickname “Governor” among friends. Dale Kennedy passed away on October 30, 2010, leaving a legacy of dedicated service to South Dakota’s rural water community.

Loren Paulsen

​​​Inducted November 13, 2024

Born near Ward, South Dakota, on October 16, 1932, Loren Paulsen dedicated his life to agriculture, education, and public service. After graduating from South Dakota State University with a degree in agricultural education, Loren’s studies were interrupted by the Korean War. He enlisted in the Navy and served with distinction in Japan. Upon his return, Loren resumed his studies, married his wife, Lucille, and became a high school agriculture teacher, inspiring students in Elkton, Garretson, and Colman.
 
Loren’s passion for leadership and public policy led him to play a pivotal role in rural water development. In 1971, he helped organize the Big Sioux Community Water System and served as chairman of its first steering committee. He became president of the board in 1972, when the system was officially incorporated, and guided its early development.
 
Loren’s commitment to rural water extended beyond his local community. He was a founding figure in the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems, serving as its first president in 1974. His leadership and vision helped lay the foundation for the organization’s success.
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Recognized for his expertise, Loren was appointed by South Dakota Governor Richard Kneip to serve on a special advisory committee for rural water systems under the Old West Regional Commission. Working with governors from neighboring states, Loren contributed to the planning and advancement of rural water infrastructure across the region.
 
Loren Paulsen passed away on December 23, 2018, in Flandreau, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to his community and state.

James Feeney

​​​​Inducted November 13, 2024

Jim Feeney, a native of Mount Vernon, South Dakota, and an alumnus of South Dakota State University with a degree in Political Science, began his public service career in 1978 with the Highway Safety Program located in the Department of Public Safety and later the Department of Commerce and Regulation. In 1989, he found his calling at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as a Policy Analyst in the Water and Waste Funding program. His dedication led to promotions, first to Administrator of the Water Resources Assistance Program in 1996, and later to Director of the Division of Financial and Technical Assistance in 2013.

One of Jim’s most significant achievements was incorporating dedicated water funding into an annual Omnibus Water Funding Bill, which provided essential funding to water projects across the state. This process provided critical support for systems such as Fall River Water User District, Lewis & Clark Regional Water System, Mid-Dakota Rural Water System, Mni Wiconi/West River Lyman-Jones Rural Water System, Perkins County Rural Water System, and Southern Black Hills Water System. His efforts enabled these projects to leverage federal support, ensuring successful completion.

Jim also implemented the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program, and administered the Clean Water SRF and state Consolidated program. These programs continue to impact South Dakota’s water quality and water infrastructure. After retiring from DENR in 2018, he continued his service with the South Eastern Council of Governments (SECOG) retiring in 2023.
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Jim’s nearly five-decade legacy is one of leadership and dedication, bringing lasting improvements to water quality, public health, and quality of life across South Dakota.