Being raised on a ranch in rural South Dakota was the beginning of Deon’s passion for rural areas. Deon continues to be involved with the family ranch, near Leola, SD. Although Deon’s full-time position as Department Manager of the Aviation Division for the ND Department of Transportation occupies much of his time, he never removes himself from the needs and priorities of rural America. Serving on the board of Rural Development Finance Corporation and as a committee member of Rural Electric and Telecommunications Development Center aid in fueling Deon’s passion regarding the need to have rural areas thrive and grow. He has served on the Capital Electric Cooperative board since 2009 and the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives board since 2016. Deon is a graduate of Northern State University and the Spartan School of Aeronautics and Technology. Deon and his wife live in the Bismarck, ND area.

Mark Litton, originally from Breckenridge, MN, has had an illustrious career spanning over 35 years in the banking industry across multiple states. He is a proud graduate of Moorehead State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Finance, laying the foundation for his successful career. Mark retired in 2018 as the Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of BankWest, Inc. in Pierre, SD. Mark oversaw lending, sales, and branch operations across all nine BankWest branches throughout South Dakota. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mark has been deeply involved in various clubs and organizations, reflecting his commitment to community service. He has dedicated his time to the Optimist Club, Habitat for Humanity, and served as an Elks Member. Additionally, he took on leadership roles as the President of the Huron Community Development Corporation, Chair of the Dakota Resources Board of Directors, President of the Huron Sertoma Club, and served as a Board Member of the Huron Clinic and for Community Counseling Services. Mark’s active participation extended to his church and numerous hocky boosters clubs, underscoring his dedication to both his faith and local sports communities. In retirement, Mark continues to be a beacon of community engagement, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and financial expertise that has enriched the lives of many.