Robert Cort Twitchell

Robert "Bob" Cort Twitchell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 23, 2025 at the age of 87.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to John and Dorothy (Huesselman) Twitchell, Bob grew up in Aberdeen, South Dakota. From an early age, he was drawn to movement and expression, beginning with ice skating before discovering a lifelong passion for dance. In high school and college, he balanced athletics like track, football, and hunting with his growing love for the arts.

He earned a Master of Fine Arts from Michigan State University and spent most of his career at the University of South Dakota (USD) as a tenured professor, where he inspired a generation of students through his teaching, choreography, and mentorship. Deeply devoted to his students, he even learned American Sign Language during a brief stint teaching at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C.

A creative force both in and out of the classroom, he spent more than thirteen summers at the Black Hills Playhouse as director and choreographer. During his long tenure at USD, he cherished touring Hello, Dolly! across South Dakota. During his summer program at USD, he delighted in involving his children in productions like Oklahoma!, blending his passion for theater with his love of family. Beyond his artistic life, Bob proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War.

While teaching in Vermillion, South Dakota, he met the love of his life, Karen. Their marriage was built on devotion, honesty, and a deep affection that grew stronger through the years. When Karen's career brought them east, they left Vermillion and made their home in the Washington, D.C. area, where they spent the last 38 years surrounded by new friends, family visits, and countless memories. Together they shared a love of family, dance, travel, and lively gatherings. Whether waltzing in their living room or hosting friends and relatives for the holidays, Bob's warmth, humor, and talent for storytelling made everyone feel welcome. Known for his sharp wit, impeccable style, and dapper charm, he was also an avid grill master who especially loved entertaining at Christmas.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Andrea Meyer. He is survived by his loving wife, Karen, and his four sons, John Twitchell, Anthony "Tony" Twitchell, Christopher Elwood, and Jonathan (Jennifer Pepson) Elwood, each of whom he loved deeply and was proud of. He is also survived by Devora Elwood and Nicole Twitchell, who remained dear to him, and his five grandchildren, Tiffany Elwood, Madison Elwood, Christopher S. Elwood, Julianna Twitchell, and Spencer Twitchell. Additionally, he is survived by his many nieces, nephews, and extended family, including his brothers and sisters-in-law from Karen's family, lovingly referred to as the "outlaws", who will forever cherish his humor and gift for conversation.

Bob's legacy lives on in every student he inspired, every dance he choreographed, and every story he told around the table.

A funeral mass will be held on October 29, 2025, at the Chapel at The Village at Rockville, 9701 Veirs Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, with the service beginning at 10:30 am, followed by a reception in the Enrichment Center. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Black Hills Playhouse or to any organization that supports the arts for future generations.

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks and appreciation for all the love, support, prayers, and kind gestures shown during this time of loss. In particular, the family wishes to thank the compassionate hospice staff at Shady Grove Hospital, the caring team at The Village at Rockville, and especially all their resident friends for their kindness and support.