The South Dakota Unified Judicial System has announced the passing of retired Justice Robert A. Amundson. Justice Amundson, who served on the South Dakota Supreme Court from 1991 to 2002, passed away at the age of 86 on December 11, 2024, in Sioux Falls.
Justice Amundson was a native of Sioux Falls and completed his education at Washington High School in 1956. He earned his undergraduate degree from Augustana College in 1961 and later graduated with a juris doctor from the University of South Dakota Law School in 1964.
His career included serving as an Assistant Attorney General from 1965 to 1969 and as South Dakota Securities Commissioner from 1971 to 1974. He also practiced law privately in Lead and Belle Fourche before being appointed by Governor George Mickelson as a circuit court judge for the Second Judicial Circuit in 1987. In 1991, he was appointed to the South Dakota Supreme Court by Governor Mickelson, where he served until his retirement in 2002.
Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven R. Jensen expressed condolences on behalf of the judiciary: "The South Dakota judiciary mourns the loss of retired Supreme Court Justice Robert Amundson, whose profound contributions to our state's legal system will not be forgotten,” said Chief Justice Jensen. “Justice Amundson was a steadfast advocate for fairness and justice, embodying the highest principles of the judiciary during his years of service. His wisdom, humility, and unwavering dedication leave an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire us all. On behalf of the judiciary, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time."