A reference may be ordered upon the agreement of the parties filed with the clerk or entered in the minutes:

1. (1) To try any or all the issues in an action or proceeding, whether of fact or law and to report a finding and conclusion thereon;
2. (2) To ascertain a fact necessary to enable the court to determine an action or proceeding;
3. (3) In all other cases provided for reference by law.

Source: SDC 1939 & Supp 1960, § 33.1501.