Robert L. “Bob” Tietjen 87, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, at Riverview HealthCare in Flandreau, SD.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Brookings, SD. Visitation will be held the day prior from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, at Rude’s Funeral Home in Brookings with a 4 pm prayer service.
Robert L. Tietjen was born on May 28, 1937, in Wilmot, SD, the son of John W. and Margaret (Hippen) Tietjen.
Bob was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Corona, SD. He was raised on the family farm near Wilmot. After receiving his education, he served in the United States Army from 1954 until 1957. Upon his discharge he returned to the family farm in Wilmot. In 1966, he was employed by the Brookings Police Department in Brookings, SD. He retired from the Brookings Police Department in 1991 at the rank of captain. He was known by many in the community as “Officer Bob” as the Safety Town Officer and Captain Bob by his Brothers and Sisters in Law Enforcement. Bob continued to work part-time in law enforcement as deputy sheriff until 1998.
He was united in marriage to Marie (Filsrand) Lewis in 1969. After retirement they lived for 16 years at Lake Poinsett, enjoying wildlife and sunsets together. In 2013, they moved to Volga, SD, to be closer to family.
He was is a member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Brookings, the American Legion and the South Dakota Peace Officers Association. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his crops, fishing and hunting in his younger years and metal detecting (penny hunting). He received his commercial pilot’s license and greatly enjoyed flying. His mornings were spent reading his bible and devotions. His greatest joy was spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Bob is survived by his wife Marie, Son Steven (Karen) Tietjen of Volga, son Robert Tietjen (Jody Moad) of Brookings, son Michael Tietjen (Christina) of Volga and his grandchildren Hunter, Logan, Cierra, Matthew (Taylor), Jaxon, Logan and Krista.
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Margaret Tietjen of Wilmot and his daughter Julie Anne Tietjen of Brookings.
Bob was a man of humility, strength, character and dignity. He was a Hero to so many, in so many ways. His Faith in His Risen Lord Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many and will surely be missed.
Condolences may be sent to the family through www.rudesfuneralhome.com.
