Robert L. Ewart, 82, of Aberdeen, formerly of Northville, SD died October 23, 2008 at Aberdeen Health and Rehab.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2008 at the Northwestern United Methodist Church in Mellette. Reverend Jon Damaska will officiate.

Burial will be in the Northville Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Sunday, from 2-8:00 p.m. at Thelen Funeral Home in Redfield.

Bob was born in Minneapolis, KS on October 8, 1926 to John Lewis and Dorothy (Todd Hile) Ewart. Bob graduated from Minneapolis High School and attended the University of Kansas, before entering into the Merchant Marines during WW II. He married Lila Johnston on March 2nd 1947 in Minneapolis, KS. On August 3, 1947, they moved to the family farm near Northville, SD. They lived there until moving to
Aberdeen, SD due to health reasons. Lila passed away on December 6, 2002 after 55 years of marriage.

He truly loved to farm and was a respected cattleman. Bob started his farming career when he was in high school. He thoroughly enjoyed farming, hunting and the Minnesota Vikings. Bob played an integral part in starting the football program in Northville High School, and in the consolidation of the Northwestern School district.

Bob was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Northville and a member of the Northwestern United Methodist Church of Mellette after they merged. He served on the school board for 23 years, not only as a member but as president. Bob served as a Spink County Commissioner for 9 years. During this time Bob was dedicated to the completion of the enhancement of the 9-1-1 system for the county.

He is survived by two daughters; Jo Jean Ewart of St Petersburg, FL, and DeAnn Ewart of New Milford, CT; and two sons Tom Ewart of Bozeman, MT and John (Judy) Ewart of Aberdeen, SD; five granddaughters; Jami Lou, Jori Lee, and Jeci Lyn Ewart all of Aberdeen, Isabella Louise and Marielle Patrice Bianchi both of New Milford, CT.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife Lila.