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Denny Sanford, a billionaire philanthropist who donated nearly $2 billion to health care and community projects, died at age 90, according to an announcement on July 18, 2026, by Sanford Health, First PREMIER Bank, and PREMIER Bankcard.
Sanford built his fortune in banking and became widely known for his transformative gifts to the Upper Midwest health system that bears his name, as well as funding initiatives across Sioux Falls and South Dakota.
Philanthropic Legacy
His philanthropic career took off in 2007 with a $400 million gift to cure Type 1 diabetes, following earlier contributions to Sioux Valley Hospital.
He also supported the State Theater, Great Plains Zoo, Jacobson Plaza, and the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, and funded a $50 million land purchase from Smithfield Foods for Foundation Park.
"Denny always said he wanted to live a life of significance and gave generously.
His philanthropy impacted millions of lives and transformed the landscape of South Dakota and beyond," said a joint statement from Sanford Health, First PREMIER Bank, and PREMIER Bankcard.
Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health, said: "We are forever blessed that Denny chose us and our communities to make the transformational gifts that will change lives for generations.
He was a driving force in modern medicine, empowering researchers and clinicians to think big."
Dana Dykhouse, CEO of First PREMIER Bank, noted Sanford's personal drive: "Denny’s passion for helping people and inspiring others to do the same is unmatched.
He often said many people live a life of success, but you should try to live a life of significance."
Miles Beacom, campaign chair for the Sioux Empire United Way, added: "Denny changed the landscape of giving.
He could have done many things with his money, yet he reinvested it in South Dakota. Our universities and health care are stronger today because of Denny."
Early Life and Career
Raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, Sanford lost his mother to breast cancer at age 4 and worked at his father's wholesale garment business from age 8.
After a youth brawl led to a 90-day jail sentence, he redirected his path toward higher education, graduating from the University of Minnesota with a psychology degree.
"It turned out to be one of the best things in my life," he said of the jail sentence.
"I said, 'Judge, you gave me the best wake-up call I could ever have. If you let me out, I’ll go to college.'
I had no intention of going to college before getting in trouble."
After selling his chemical manufacturing firm Contech Inc. in 1982, Sanford acquired First Premier Bank in 1986.
His net worth reached over $3 billion through PREMIER Bankcard's subprime lending business; Forbes estimated his wealth at $2.4 billion.
Today, Sanford Health employs 55,000 workers, operating 58 hospitals and 289 clinic locations across seven states.
