Robert James Slunecka, 85, of Miller, passed away Wednesday, June 23, 2021, at Avera Hand County Hospital in Miller.

Memorial service will be held at 10: 30 a.m., Tuesday. June 29, 2021, at the United Methodist Church, Pastor Teresa Whetsel, officiating.  Burial will follow at G.A.R. Cemetery, Miller. A visitation will be held at 5:00 p.m., Monday, June 28, 2021, with a prayer service to follow at 7:00 p.m., all at the church.

Robert was born May 7, 1936, in Miller, South Dakota to John and Matilda “Tillie” (Schlechter) Slunecka. He and his brother, Duane, grew up on the family farm where they shared a home with his uncle Fred, brother of John, and Aunt Minnie, twin of Matilda. They had three daughters that were his cousins, but Arlene, Wanelda and Audrey were much more like sisters to him and his brother. He attended grade school in the country near his home and graduated from Miller High School.

Robert joined the Army National Guard in Miller after high school serving for eight years.

He married his high school sweetheart, Doris Morris on June 1, 1955, in Polo, South Dakota. To this marriage three daughters were born: Christine, KayLynn, and Brenda. They resided on the family farm northwest of Miller. Robert worked on the family farm beside his dad, John and brother, Duane for many years and made a good life for his family.

He was a member of the Miller United Methodist Church and was active in 4H both as a member and later as a 4H leader, which he served for almost 20 years. He served on the REA Board and the school board for the Miller School District. He was given the Hand County outstanding livestock producer award in 1974 and was a member of the South Dakota Pork Producers. He earned the honor of Hand County Pork Producer in 1978 and later pork producer of the year. He cherished the friendships he made through this organization.

As a teenager, he took up boxing and learned to play the accordion. He had many fond memories and was an active member for the FFA in high school. A highlight was being selected as an FFA choir member delegate that traveled to Kansas City, Missouri, to put on a concert that was attended by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Robert was even fortunate enough to meet Brenda Lee.

He enjoyed pheasant and deer hunting and an occasional trip to the hills, snowmobiling with friends and family. Robert always loved music and learned square dancing and some ballroom dancing. He and Doris joined the Drifters and Dreamers and were a part of that singing group for many years. He began playing pool at the friendship center and enjoyed the friendships he made there.

His greatest blessings were his family and family pets, along with a close-knit group of friends that made his life extra special. He loved taking family vacations where he continually made-up songs, some rhymed and some didn’t but were always entertaining. He was a kind and patient father and was always there to help and offer words of encouragement.

He attended most all of his children’s activities and then many of his grandchildren’s activities too.

Robert was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend who will be missed by his wife of 66 years, Doris Slunecka of Miller; daughters: KayLynn Burnham of Sioux Falls, Brenda (Bill) Becker of Redfield, grandchildren: Xavier (Mariah) Garcia, Chandra (Bryant) Larson, Tyler (Amber) Burnham, Vanessa (Steve) Papesh, and Damon Becker; great grandchildren: Alana, Zander, Dominic, Izaiah and Novah Garcia, Ember and Amelia Larson, Izabella Papesh; sister-in-law, Barbara Slunecka; brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Daelyn and Joyce Sanger and ten special nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents: John and Matilda Slunecka; daughter, Christine Garcia; son-in-law, Angel Garcia; brother, Duane Slunecka; cousin, Audrey Dean.

Reck Funeral Home of Miller has been entrusted with Robert’s arrangements. Visit www.familyfuneralhome.net.

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