Robert D. Gilkyson

Robert D. Gilkyson, 82, of Vermillion, SD passed away peacefully Saturday, May 17, at his river cabin surrounded by his family.

Bob was born on September 16, 1942 in Wakonda, SD to Courtland and Ramona (Doty) Gilkyson. He graduated from Wakonda high school in 1960, and after his parents both died, he resided with his guardians, Blake and Ardy Gilkyson.

After one year of college, he entered the navy with four of his friends on the buddy system. He was deployed three times, with the final time to Vietnam. When his brother became ill, he returned to Wakonda.

Upon returning from the navy, Bob and Maxine (Gors) resumed their friendship and in December of 1966 they became engaged and married on January 18, 1967, in Yankton, SD. Together they raised 2 children, Lisa and Bob II.

He had worked at Vermillion Auto Parts, Edgar Motor Company, and retired from the City of Vermillion. He relaxed for a year then began driving the transit bus, and after five years, he retired again. They purchased the river cabin where he enjoyed spending time with family. He enjoyed camping, boating, riding his motorcycle and snowmobiling. He was the “Honey I Shrunk The Kids” inventor.

He was preceded in death by his parents Courtland and Ramona, a brother Allen.

Bob is survived by his wife Maxine of Vermillion, a son Bob II and daughter Lisa (Allen) Hesse all of Vermillion. Three grandchildren; Tracy, David and Megan, and his great grandchildren; Connor, Alexis, Cadee and Bennett.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, May 21 at the Hansen Funeral Home in Vermillion with burial to follow in the Union Cemetery in Wakonda. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 20, starting at 6:00 PM with a prayer service at 7:00 PM all at the funeral Home. Hansenfuneralhome.com.