Pankratz v. Miller

SABERS, Justice.

Winston Miller (Winston), appeals the trial court’s decision holding him liable for damages in a civil suit for alienation of affections. We reverse.

Facts

Elke Pankratz (Elke), is the estranged wife of plaintiff Duane C. Pankratz (Duane), a veterinarian. The Pankratz’s were married in July of 1967. They had five children, three of whom are still surviving. Elke was born in post-war Germany. Duane is a native of Freeman, South Dakota. The couple met when Duane was traveling and working in Europe. Elke initiated a divorce action in Turner County, South Dakota, in the summer of…