McGovern Service Features Local Bluegrass Band

If there was ever any question that former U.S. Sen. George McGovern danced to his own tune, the music played at his prayer service is proof.

Instead of somber hymns, the bluegrass ensemble East of Westreville played folksier tunes such as "I Am a Pilgrim."

Crowds paid their respects Thursday during a public viewing and prayer service at a Sioux Falls Methodist church. McGovern died Sunday at age 90 in hospice care. His funeral is to begin at 1 p.m. Friday at the Washington Pavilion.

Former state Sen. Scott Heidepriem told the hundreds gathered at the Thursday service that East of Westreville was McGovern's favorite band.