The community of Pierre, South Dakota, is deeply mourning the loss of Kim Bierle, a beloved volleyball coach and dedicated rancher, who passed away on March 5, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Kim’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of many who knew her, both as a mentor on the volleyball court and as a pillar of the community through her work on the family ranch. Her devotion to both her family and her community has left an indelible mark that will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
Kim was born into a family with a long and proud legacy in ranching. Her parents, Jim and Janice “Jani” Bierle, operated the Madsen Ranch, a property along the Bad River in Pierre that has been passed down through generations. The ranch, a historic and significant part of the Bierle family, was something that Kim always held close to her heart. She once shared her pride in the history of the ranch, saying, “The history is something you can’t get anywhere else.” It was not just a livelihood for Kim but a way of life that shaped her character and work ethic.
From a young age, Kim learned the importance of hard work, resilience, and determination as she contributed to the day-to-day operations of the family ranch. Whether it was taking care of livestock, maintaining the ranch’s operations, or supporting her family, Kim’s commitment to ranching was unwavering. Her efforts to preserve the family legacy were a testament to her dedication and love for the land she grew up on. Over the years, Kim embraced the ranching lifestyle fully, fostering a connection to the land and the heritage it represented.
Alongside her work on the ranch, Kim made a significant impact in another area of her life—volleyball coaching. Kim’s passion for the sport of volleyball became an integral part of her identity. Over the years, she dedicated countless hours to coaching young athletes in the Pierre area. Through her coaching, Kim not only imparted her knowledge of the game but also instilled values of teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and integrity. Her players fondly remember her not just as a coach, but as a mentor who cared deeply about their personal development both on and off the court.
Kim’s coaching style was centered on building character and encouraging her players to push themselves beyond their limits. She was known for her ability to connect with her athletes on a personal level, understanding their strengths and weaknesses and using that knowledge to help them grow. Her guidance helped shape countless young athletes, many of whom went on to achieve success in volleyball and other aspects of their lives. The bonds Kim formed with her players went beyond the court, as she genuinely cared for their well-being and supported them through the challenges of adolescence.
Kim’s influence extended far beyond her work with volleyball. She was an active member of the Pierre community, always willing to lend a hand and contribute to the betterment of those around her. Whether it was participating in local events, organizing initiatives, or volunteering for various causes, Kim was a constant presence in the community. Her involvement was fueled by her desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those who lived in Pierre. Her contributions to local causes, large and small, were a reflection of her deep care for others and her commitment to strengthening the bonds of her community.
Her family life was equally important to Kim. She is survived by her brother, Kory Bierle, his wife Robin, and their three children: Kruse, Sage, and Bailey. The Bierle family has been a cornerstone of the Midland and Pierre communities for years, known for their hard work, generosity, and dedication to maintaining the family’s ranching legacy. The strength and unity of the Bierle family were central to Kim’s life, and her deep love for them was evident in everything she did.
The news of Kim’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from those who knew her. The Pierre Governor Volleyball team, where Kim coached, expressed their sorrow by saying, “We have lost one of the best coaches, mentors, teachers, and friends, Kim Bierle. Coach Bierle passed away today surrounded by loved ones after a long battle with cancer. Rest easy, cowgirl; we’ll take it from here.” These words reflect the deep respect and affection Kim’s athletes had for her, as well as the profound impact she had on their lives.
Former students and athletes have shared countless memories of Kim’s unwavering support and the positive influence she had on them. Many remember her as a coach who was always ready with a kind word of encouragement, a lesson in resilience, or a shoulder to lean on. Her ability to inspire and uplift others was unmatched, and the legacy she leaves behind will continue to resonate with her players, her family, and her friends for years to come.
In her personal and professional life, Kim embodied the values of dedication, hard work, and community spirit. Her passing has left a gaping hole in the Pierre community, but the legacy of her contributions to volleyball, ranching, and local life will continue to inspire and guide those who knew her. Her work and impact will be carried on by her players, her family, and the many people whose lives she touched.
Funeral services for Kim Bierle are scheduled for [date], at [location], with interment to follow at [cemetery name]. The Bierle family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to [charity or organization] in Kim’s memory. This gesture reflects Kim’s ongoing commitment to supporting causes that were meaningful to her, including the importance of preserving the heritage of the land and the well-being of future generations.
Kim’s life was one of dedication to her family, her community, and the causes she cared about. Her contributions as a coach, rancher, and active community member will continue to be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. Though her physical presence may no longer be with us, Kim’s legacy will live on through the lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave to all those around her.
