Community Rallies Around Uecker Family After Passing of 23‑Year‑Old Renner Uecker

Name: Boathouse Bar & Grill
Location: Arlington Beach

Steve Jurrens
Apr 20
3 min read

Two people smiling on a golf course, holding golf clubs. Text overlay: "Community Rallies Around Uecker Family After Passing of 23-Year-Old Renner Uecker."

Northeast Radio SD News – Lake Poinsett, SD - Communities across northeast South Dakota are coming together to support the family of Renner Dean Uecker, a 23‑year‑old Mitchell native with strong community ties in Lake Poinsett who passed away on April 11 after suffering a sudden and severe brain bleed caused by a rare viral complication.

Renner, known for his energy, humor, and deep love for his family, died surrounded by loved ones after eight days in the hospital. His obituary describes a young man who lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

As the Uecker family prepares for visitation and services, local businesses, friends, and community members are stepping forward to help ease the financial burden and show support for Renner’s mother, Bobbi Gustafson, his sister Ruby, and his brother Haeden.

Boathouse Bar & Grill and Arlington Beach Resort Lead Local Support

The Boathouse Bar & Grill at Arlington Beach — where Renner’s sister Ruby has worked for years — was among the first to organize community support.

In a public statement, the business shared that Ruby has become “like family” to the staff and that the Uecker family has endured “more than imaginable” in recent months. A donation jar has been placed at the Boathouse, and the business is accepting contributions through its verified Venmo account @abrboathouse (with “Uecker family” in the description).

The Boathouse also announced that over the last weekend, a “For Renner Day” fundraiser was held, with a percentage of the profits donated directly to the family. Additional details will be released soon.

Following Renner’s passing, the Boathouse shared another update, asking the community to keep the family in their prayers and reminding donors to use only the official Venmo account due to scam attempts.

Lake Region Golf Club Matching Donations

The Lake Region Golf Club, where the Uecker family has long been involved, is also raising funds. General Manager John Fraser said Renner “grew up on this golf course” and was known for his spirit and kindness.

The club has set up a donation bucket and is matching all donations made at the course or through its verified Venmo account @LRGC‑7. The club reported raising more than $5,000 in the first two days alone, reflecting overwhelming community generosity.

Other Local Businesses Join the Effort

The Bullpen Bar also announced support for the Uecker family, sharing that staff members knew Renner personally and described him as a “sweet soul” loved by everyone who met him. The bar is forwarding all Venmo donations labeled “Fly High Renner” to the family.

Across the Lake Poinsett region, additional businesses and individuals have stepped up with donation jars, meal fundraisers, and matching contributions.

A Community Grieving Together

Renner’s passing has deeply affected friends, coworkers, and community members. Those who knew him describe him as:

· Happy, funny, and full of life

· A loyal brother and devoted son

· A hard worker who loved the outdoors, lifting weights, and spending time with family

· A young man whose smile and personality could fill any room

His obituary reflects a life lived with intensity, curiosity, and love — from childhood adventures and family traditions to his travels, friendships, and work in machining and yacht detailing.

Visitation and Services

Visitation: Monday, April 20, 2026, 5:00–7:00 p.m., Crawford‑Osthus Funeral Chapel, Watertown. Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m.