The Matthews has been incredibly lucky to serve as a platform for many inspired creatives and patrons over the years. One such pivotal character was Bernice “Ann” Froelich. Ann was a trailblazer for the Children’s Theater program here at the Matthews by taking the lead of the Peanut Butter Jelly Players from 2008 to 2019 before it was renamed to the Froelich Young Actors Guild. She recognized the untapped potential of the youth in Spearfish and the opportunity that the Matthews could create for them. To this day, she inspires the Matthews and the Spearfish community to create an inviting space for the future generations of not only actors but also compassionate community members.
Her obituary, as published on January 16th, 2026 in the Black Hills Pioneer, is as follows:
Bernice “Ann” Froelich, born March 18, 1944, in Yankton, South Dakota, passed away on January 14, 2026, at Edgewood Vista in Spearfish, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply.
Ann devoted her life to nurturing young minds. She taught at Spearfish Elementary School from 1976 to 1999, shaping generations of students with her patience, creativity, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child. Her classroom was a place of curiosity, kindness, and joy, values she carried into every chapter of her life. Retirement did little to slow her passion for working with children. Instead, Ann poured her heart into youth theater, first through the Spearfish Public Library and later at the Matthews Opera House. Her dedication helped countless young performers discover confidence, imagination, and community on the stage. In 2019, in recognition of her profound impact, the beloved Peanut Butter and Jelly Players Children’s Theater was renamed the Froelich Young Actors Guild, honoring both her work and the spirit she instilled in so many.
Ann is survived by her husband, Ken Froelich; her children, Scott (Sheryl) Eisenbraun and their daughter Maria; Lori Hafemann and her daughters Aspen and Ashley (Sidney); and by Lori’s former husband, Michael Hafemann, who remained close to the family. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Karl (Stacey) Froelich and their sons Mitch and Dylan; Kurt (Sharon) Froelich and their children Carla, Amanda, Jesse, Lindsey, and T.J.; Kristin Froelich and her daughters Shaunna and Shayla; and Keith (Bridget) Froelich and their children Riley and Sam and 8 great‑grandchildren, and 3 great‑great‑grandchildren. She is further survived by her brothers, Jim (Kim) Jorgensen and Steve (Ginny) Jorgensen, along with many nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, and great‑nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Helen Jorgensen.
Ann’s legacy lives on in the students she taught, the young actors she encouraged, and the community she enriched with her generosity and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Froelich Young Actors Guild at the Matthews Opera House, honoring Ann’s lifelong dedication to children and creativity.
We at The Matthews feel incredibly honored to have had Ann as a part of our history. She was an incredible woman, a leader, and a friend. With her passing, many contributions were made to the Matthews for the continuation of the Children’s Theater program, and we are honored to be trusted to uphold her legacy.
