Timothy J. Bachmeier

Timothy James Bachmeier, 69, of Wahpeton, ND, passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2026. A memorial service will be held at Vertin-Munson Funeral Home on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 2 pm.

Big Stone City, South Dakota, has lost its unofficial mayor and beloved honorary sheriff.

Tim Bachmeier was the youngest of 10 children born to Sig and Katherine Bachmeier. He was easily the most popular member of the family—and anyone who walked the streets of Big Stone City knew it.

Tim made it his personal mission to know everyone in town by name, greeting neighbors and visitors alike. His natural charisma and watchful eye earned him the title of Big Stone’s honorary sheriff, a duty he took seriously, famously telling folks, "You can't do that....knock it off".

Tim found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. Some of his happiest days were spent out on the water, fishing rod in hand, especially at Ottertail Lake alongside his family and friends.

A true athlete, Tim was an enthusiastic competitor in the Special Olympics. He poured his energy into softball, bowling, and bocce ball, beaming with unmistakable pride at the numerous medals he earned.

Tim loved sports gear, particularly t-shirts and jerseys. However, that allegiance came with a price; he wanted a winner!! He was a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan right up until their losing streak, at which point he happily traded them in for whoever was on top.

Unapologetic in his pursuit of champions, he never had much patience for the Minnesota Vikings - though he still enjoyed taking in live games at the stadium, just as he loved cheering at Minnesota Twins games.

Tim lived a life defined by connection and an open heart. He brought warmth to every sidewalk in Big Stone and Whapeton, and left behind a legacy of pure, uncomplicated joy. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him, and the entire community he watched over so proudly.

Tim was blessed to spend his final years at Red River Human Services. A special thank you to the staff for their kind and loving care.

Tim is survived by his brother, Larry; and sisters, Luella and Connie; sisters-in-law, Sharon, Jennifer, and Maddy Bachmeier; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sig and Katherine Bachmeier; brothers, Bill and Gerald; and sisters, Mary Ann Mitchell, Avelina Helgeson, Geraldine Wasfaret, and Tillie Anderson.