Robert Lee Buchholz

ROBERT LEE BUCHHOLZ was born on November 29, 1944 to Harold and Helen (Engel) Buchholz in Tripp, South Dakota. He attended both elementary and high school in Hill City, South Dakota. When he was 17 years old Bob entered into the South Dakota National Guard and served for six years. While he was in the Guard he also worked for a mining company in Custer, South Dakota. In May of 1967 Bob was united in marriage to Arthella Sanders in Custer. The two moved to Caro, Michigan and while they were there their daughter, Elouise was born. Bob held many different jobs over the course of his life. He worked for a logging company, built bridges while living in Michigan, built and repaired cars, worked for the forest service through the School of Mines in Rapid City, South Dakota, was employed at the Harrison County Landfill, and finally, for Pinnacle Programs out of Magnolia, Minnesota. In 1995, Bob met Diane Oliver and the two remained together for 20 years. In November of 2007, he retired and continued to live in Luverne. Bob enjoyed traveling with Diane to New Mexico, Nevada, Tennessee, and Iowa. In 2012, Bob’s health began to decline and Diane cared for him at home. He spent some time in the hospital, both in Luverne and Sioux Falls around Christmastime in 2014. On Friday, January 23, Bob was admitted into the Sanford Luverne Hospice Cottage where he died on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at the age of 70 years, one month, and 26 days.

Bob enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether it was hunting, fishing, feeding the squirrels, or fixing cars – he loved it all. Not only did Bob enjoy repairing cars, he also enjoyed driving them fast. Spending time with his granddaughters was a favorite pastime; their trips to the zoo to watch the penguins will be remembered fondly. One thing Bob will be remembered for will be the ever-present coffee thermos in his hand; he drank coffee all day, every day. Most of all, Bob loved his best friend and partner, Diane. The life they lived together is one that leaves behind many, many good memories.

Bob is lovingly remembered by his devoted partner of 20 years, Diane Oliver of Luverne; two granddaughters, Kayla (Chester Carson) Stalder of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Christina Stalder of Hot Spring, South Dakota; all of Diane’s family, who considered Bob as one of their own; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Elouise in 2013; and two brothers, Vern and Larry.

A private family burial will take place at Custer Cemetery in Hill City, South Dakota at a later date.