With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert Edward O'Dell, age 66, of Volga, South Dakota. Robert passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born on July 10, 1959, in Granite City, Illinois, to Vernon and Frances O'Dell. The eldest of five siblings, he grew up in Granite City and attended high school there before joining the Job Corps in 1976. Over the years, Robert explored various trades before finding his professional home at South Dakota State University, where he began working in the Facilities & Services Department in 2001. Known for his strong work ethic and kind nature, Robert took great pride in his work and formed lasting friendships with many of his colleagues. He retired in 2023 after more than two decades of dedicated service.

In retirement, Robert enjoyed the simpler pleasures of life—relaxing, riding his four-wheeler, and, most of all, spending quality time with his family. He especially cherished his role as an uncle and great-uncle, taking great pride in the relationships he built with the younger members of his extended family.

Robert is survived by his mother, Frances O'Dell, of Estelline; siblings, Vernon O'Dell II, of Estelline, Brian of Missouri, Karen (Michael) Filkins, of Nebraska and Julie Saathoff, of Omaha, Nebraska; aunts, Carol (Don) Hofland, of Clear Lake, SD and Karen Mares of Illinois; many nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and great-nephews

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Vernon O'Dell, his brother-in-law, Donald Saathoff, and many beloved maternal and paternal relatives whose memories he carried close.

A Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Geise Funeral Chapel in Estelline, South Dakota. A Memorial Service and light lunch will follow.