Robert Claussen

Robert “Bob” Adams Claussen, age 85 of Martin, made his eternal journey to our heavenly father on December 26th, 2022, at Monument Health in Rapid City, SD after a courageous battle with cancer.

Robert was born in Witten, SD to Claus and Gladys Claussen on February 15, 1937. He attended school in Martin and graduated from Bennett County High School in 1955. While in high school Robert met the love of his life, his homecoming queen, Shirley Farmer and they were happily married for 66 years.

Robert had a strong work ethic instilled within him, operating Bob’s Gas Service for 67 Years. Besides being a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friends to many, Robert was dedicated to the community in which he lived. He served as Mayor of Martin, fire chief, boy scout leader, Martin Little League Baseball coach, middle school basketball coach and was a member of the Martin Jaycees for more than 20 years. Robert was a strong advocate for supporting our Native American population. He was awarded the South Dakota Reconciliation Award from Governor George Mikkelson and Ben Black Bear for his efforts to create a cohesive, diverse community. He took pride in Bennett County athletics and served as part of the “chain gang” for the Bennett County Warrior Football team for more than 60 years. Robert could be seen delivering propane around the community unless it was 3:00, which was his coffee time where he would sit with his friends to discuss the happenings in the community and solve the world’s problems. Robert was as dedicated to his family as he was to his community.

Robert is survived by his loving wife Shirley, daughter Deb Soderlin, sons Gregg (Judi) Claussen, and Steve Claussen; grandchildren Shannon (Aaron) Brown, Brandon (Kelli) Claussen, Brett (Kelly) Soderlin, Trent (Carl) Deines, Brittney Soderlin, Chelsi (Brent) Weber, Shelby (Laura) Claussen, Shea Soderlin, Stevi Anne (Taylor) Claussen, Samantha Claussen; and 21 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his father, Claus, his mother, Gladys, his sister Arlene Curtis, his brothers, Gail, Lloyd, Ralph, and Kenneth.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Friday December 30, 2022, at the Martin Activity Center with the burial at the Martin Community Cemetery and refreshments to follow at the new American Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to C.H.A.R.T. to assist other community members who are suffering from the effects of cancer. Arrangements entrusted with the Bennett County Funeral Home.