Sidney J. Phelps

Mar 27, 1931 -

Jul 26, 2023

Sidney J. Phelps, 92, of Spearfish, S.D., passed away peacefully on July 26, 2023, at Monument Hospital in Rapid City, S.D.

Sid was born to William and Anna Phelps on March 27, 1931, in Hot Springs, S.D. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in music at Nebraska State College in Chadron, Neb., in 1952 and 1960. His music career extended over 31 years in Nebraska, Alaska, and South Dakota. He served two years in a U.S. Army band training unit at Camp Chaffee, Ark.

He was a music specialist in the Anchorage School District. He and fellow music educators developed the "Music Is Fun" program. He played in shows traveling in Alaska, such as the Bob Hope show, the Ice Capades and had his own traditional jazz band. His band played at the Franklin Hotel in Deadwood, S.D., and elsewhere. He was inducted into the Dakota Musician's Association Hall of Fame in 2002. Sid had a keen sense of humor and an exceptional range of creativity. He shared these gifts with many in his life.

Sid is survived by his wife, Marian Phelps of Spearfish; children, Susan Sutton (EG) of Anchorage, Alaska, Tami Phelps (Kerry) of Anchorage, Jay Phelps (Kathy) of Hot Springs, John Phelps (Barbara) of Anchorage, and Jim Phelps (Heather) of Sherwood, Ore.; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four stepchildren; nine stepgrandchildren; and six stepgreat-grandchildren.

Sid is preceded in death by his first wife, Ardis Phelps; father, William Phelps, mother, Anna Phelps; and sister, Frances Phelps.

Services for Sidney J. Phelps took place in Spearfish on Aug. 7, 2023. His love and music will always be in our hearts, especially when we hear a trumpet play.