UJS Mourns Passing of Retired Justice Robert A. Amundson

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: Dec. 12, 2024
Contact:Greg Sattizahn, State Court Administrator, 605.773.3474

UJS Mourns Passing of Retired Justice Robert A. Amundson

PIERRE, S.D.- It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that the South Dakota Unified Judicial System announces the passing of retired Justice Robert A. Amundson, who served as a circuit court judge in the Second Judicial Circuit and later as a justice on the South Dakota Supreme Court from 1991 to 2002. Justice Amundson, 86, died on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Sioux Falls.

Born in Sioux Falls, Justice Amundson graduated from Washington High School in 1956. He received his undergraduate degree from Augustana College, Sioux Falls, in 1961 and his juris doctor from the University of South Dakota Law School in 1964.

Justice Amundson served as an Assistant Attorney General from 1965 to 1969, South Dakota Securities Commissioner from 1971 to 1974, and had private law practices in Lead and Belle Fourche. He was appointed to the bench for the Second Judicial Circuit by Gov. George Mickelson in 1987. Justice Amundson served as a circuit court judge until 1991, when Gov. Mickelson appointed him to the South Dakota Supreme Court. Justice Amundson retired from the Supreme Court in 2002.

"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 Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven R. 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."

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About South Dakota Courts:The Unified Judicial System (UJS) consists of the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts and State Court Administrator's Office. The Supreme Court is the state's highest court and final decision maker on South Dakota law. The Circuit Courts are the state's trial courts where criminal proceedings and civil litigation are handled. The State Court Administrator's Office provides centralized administrative assistance and support services for the South Dakota judiciary. Learn more at https://ujs.sd.gov.