Editor’s Note: Palace City Profiles is an ongoing series of community members’ stories, introducing us to our neighbors and the personalities that call Mitchell home. If you have suggestions for individuals or families with a great story, please contact Doreen Nelson at 996-1140 or doreen@mitchellsd.com.
 
Doug Markworth’s story is one of family, community, and a deep love for the town of Mitchell. Alongside his wife, Terssa, Doug has raised a remarkable family of 21 children and now enjoys the company of 36 grandchildren and a chocolate lab. Their journey into large family life began after having four healthy sons. The Markworths adopted Heather from South Korea when she was just three months old, sparking a passion for adoption. Over the years, they adopted four brothers from Minnesota, five boys and a girl from Iowa, and seven children from Kansas City, creating a vibrant and loving household of 17 sons and four daughters.

Doug and Terssa’s love story started in the U.S. Air Force. They met in Texas and were married at Lackland Air Force Base in 1986. Doug hails from Grand Island, Nebraska, while Terssa grew up in several East River towns, including Mitchell. After a 34-year career with State Farm, Doug retired from management in May 2023. His connection to Mitchell was solidified when he learned that Becky Moore was retiring from her State Farm agency. Knowing the strong reputation Becky had built, Doug saw it as the perfect opportunity to serve a community he admired.


Choosing Mitchell was an easy decision for Doug and Terssa. They were looking for a smaller town in South Dakota that offered a welcoming community feel. Having moved several times during Doug’s career, they found that towns with populations between 10,000 and 15,000 suited them best. Mitchell’s pace, friendly people, and familiar environment checked all the boxes for them. Their main challenge upon moving was finding a house quickly.

Doug appreciates the convenience of living in Mitchell, where everything is just a few minutes away. Through his State Farm agency at 1204 S. Burr, he has been actively involved in community events. Doug enjoys partnering with other businesses to support local causes. He has organized bottled water drives for the fire department, food collections for the pet shelter, and winter clothing donations for foster children. His collaboration with Dobesh Chiropractic to play Santa for children’s photos is a cherished memory. Doug’s efforts have allowed him to meet many fascinating people and hear their stories, contributing to his deep appreciation for Mitchell.

Doug and Terssa love the outdoors, enjoying activities like hiking, biking, hunting, and fishing. Both are avid readers. Terssa is a realtor and owns a real estate education school, teaching classes required to become a realtor. She has also taught communication at Black Hills State University in Spearfish.

Since moving to Mitchell, Doug and Terssa have explored every local restaurant, with a particular fondness for Mexican cuisine. They enjoy walking around the lake when the weather permits. Doug’s advice for newcomers to Mitchell is to dive in headfirst. Engage with the community, ask about local favorites, and seek advice on places to visit and things to do.

For the Markworths, Mitchell has been a perfect fit. The town offers everything they need and brings them closer to several of their children and grandchildren. Doug looks forward to seeing new businesses thrive and meeting more people, continuing to build a life full of connection and community in Mitchell.