Robert "Bob" Olson

Robert Olson, 73, of Sinai, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at home on October 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born on January 25, 1952, to Walter "Pulley" and Christine Olson. He grew up in Sinai alongside his younger siblings, Kathy and Steve, and graduated from Sioux Valley High School.

In 1971, Robert proudly joined the United States Air Force, completing boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He was later stationed at Bellows Air Force Base in Hawaii, where he served as part of the security police. After his honorable discharge in 1975, Robert returned home to South Dakota and began working for the Sinai Elevator.

In 1978, Robert married the love of his life, Joan Post, with whom he shared 46 wonderful years until her passing earlier this year. Together, they raised four children-Jeff, Elisa, Melanie, and Andrea-and built a life filled with love, laughter, and hard work on their family farm.

Robert had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He found joy in raising Red Angus cattle, riding horses, working in the fields, and spending time outside on the farm with Joan and their children.

In 1983, Robert began what would become a 34-year career with the Brookings County Sheriff's Office, a calling that meant the world to him. Over the years, he earned the deep respect of his fellow officers, staff, and inmates for his calm demeanor, fairness, and steady leadership. He had a natural gift for de-escalating tense situations with patience and quiet confidence. His coworkers knew they could always count on him-he showed up every day with dedication, integrity, and a subtle, good-natured sense of humor. His service left a lasting mark on both the department and the community he faithfully served.

Robert faced an eight-year battle with liposarcoma with remarkable courage and grace. Throughout his illness, he was praised by his doctors for his strength, resilience, and positive spirit. He never complained, meeting each challenge with quiet determination and unwavering faith.

Family was at the heart of Robert's life, and his greatest joy came from being a grandfather. Lovingly known as "Papa" to his eleven grandchildren, he was their biggest supporter. He especially loved helping his kids and grandkids prepare and show livestock for 4-H and FFA-often right there in the barn, helping wash and clip animals or offering words of encouragement. Robert also loved watching his grandkids play sports and attending their concerts, always proud and ready with his camera to capture every moment. His steady presence, gentle humor, and unconditional love made him a constant source of comfort and pride for his family.

Robert was a longtime member of the First Reformed Church in Volga, where his faith and sense of community were an important part of his life.

Those who knew Robert will remember his quiet strength, humble spirit, and gentle heart. He found happiness in the simple things-family dinners, working outdoors, and time spent with those he loved most. His legacy of kindness, service, and perseverance will live on in his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.

Robert Olson is survived by his children, Jeff (Sara) Olson, Elisa (Jon) Koeniguer, Melanie (Dan) Gerdes and Andrea (Scott) Wheelhouse; his 11 grandchildren, Jillian, Dane, Jacoby, Cora, Jaden, Maverick, Hawkins, Lainey, Dutton, Cruise and Collins; brother Steve (Maricel) Olson of Volga, SD; sister Kathy Murray of Aberdeen; sister-in-law Betty (Jim) Halde of Sioux Falls, SD, brother-in-law Marvin (Joyce) Post of Volga, SD, sister-in-law Sylvia Misar of Oldham, SD, brother-in-law Bob Post of Madison, SD, sister-in-law Carol (Greg) Bolstad of Volga, SD, brother-law Dave (Mary) Post of Volga, SD and brother-in-law Denny (Kerry) Post of Volga, SD.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Joan; his parents, Walter "Pulley" and Christine (Christensen) Olson; his in-laws, Jake and Cora (VanBeek) Post; Sid and Shirley Post; brother-in-law Dave Murray; and nephew Seth.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at First Reformed Church in Volga, South Dakota. Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, October 30, at 10:30 a.m. at First Reformed Church in Volga.