Huron in Beadle County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Dr. Karl J. Blessinger
Huron Regional Medical Center Medical Staff
| | 1998 2016 | |
Originally from Evansville, Indiana, Dr. Blessinger completed a bachelor of science degree at Wabash College and earned his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine.
Dr. Blessinger served for many years on various medical staff committees while working closely with hospital staff and fellow physicians to ensure safe, effective and compassionate care for HRMC patients. A former chief of medical staff, Dr. Blessinger served as chairman of the HRMC board of directors for two terms from 2008 - 2009 and 2013 - 2016. Dr. Blessinger also served as an American Medical Association representative for the South Dakota State Medical Association (SDSMA) Young Physician Section, as a SD delegate of the College of American Pathologists, and on the District 5 Council of the SDSMA. In 2006, he was honored as Outstanding Young Physician by the SDSMA for his outstanding achievements, dedication and service to the community and to the medical association at the local, state and national levels.
From the moment he arrived in Huron, Dr. Blessinger generously shared his time, talent and money. He served in many capacities including president, vice president and member of the Huron Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau, a past president and former board member of the HRMC Foundation, a founding director and contributor to the Huron Community Foundation, Huron Eye Opener Lions Club, United Way board and Salvation Army board. Also benefitting from his time and generosity were the Jan Manolis Family Safe Center, Dakotaland Museum, Pyle House Museum and Beadle County Humane Society.
In 2010, Dr. Blessinger received the Huron Area Chamber & Visitors Bureau Distinguished Civic Service Award in recognition of his continuous and outstanding service to the community and his clear commitment to make a difference in the Huron community.
Dr. Blessinger and his spouse, Jeffrey Van Winkle, enjoyed hosting social gatherings in their home where they prepared amazing appetizers, meals and desserts for all to enjoy.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Science & Medicine. A significant historical year for this entry is 1998.
Location. 44° 21.66′ N, 98° 12.718′ W. Marker is in Huron, South Dakota, in Beadle County. It is at the intersection of 5th Street Southeast and Kansas Avenue, on the left when traveling east on 5th Street Southeast. Located in Legacy Park in Huron. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Huron SD 57350, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in East River and specifically in the James River Valley. It is also in the American Midwest, in the Lewis & Clark Corridor, in the Corn Belt, on the prairies, and on the Northern Plains. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once Ruperts Land and also the Louisiana Purchase.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Dr. Jeffrey S. Wheeler (here, next to this marker); Dr. Howard L. Saylor, Jr. (a few steps from this marker); Dr. Paul H. Hohm (a few steps from this marker); Welcome to Legacy Park Garden! (within shouting distance of this marker); Grace Episcopal Church aka "The Centennial Center" (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); "The Evolution of Medicine" (about 800 feet away); Huron Public Library (approx. 0.2 miles away); Campbell Park Historic District (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Huron.
Credits. This page was last revised on September 8, 2022. It was originally submitted on September 8, 2022. This page has been viewed 419 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 8, 2022.

