Robert L. Stanfield, 87, of Wessington, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018, at the Huron Regional Medical Center.

His funeral service was held on Monday, Dec. 31, at the Kuhler Funeral Home. Burial was at the G.A.R. Cemetery at Miller. The Hershman-Gordon Post #59 American Legion of Wolsey conducted the military honors. A fellowship luncheon was held at the Wessington Legion Hall after the burial. Visitation was held on Sunday, Dec. 30, at the Kuhler Funeral Home.

Robert L. Stanfield was born Sept. 22, 1931, to Dean and Grace (Butts) Stanfield at Letcher. His education began at country schools, and he graduated from Artesian High School. Robert then enlisted in the United States Navy during the Korean War, and he was honorably discharged. Robert then completed his formal education by graduating as a diesel mechanic from a trade school at Fargo, N.D. He worked as a diesel mechanic all of his life. In 1975, Robert began working for the South Dakota Department of Transportation. He retired in 1995.

On Dec. 29, 1956, Robert married Billie LaVonne Joy at Sunbeam Church near Miller. They made their home in Huron until 1970, when they moved their family to Cavour. In 1975, they moved to the family farm north of Vayland, where they lived for many years. Robert and Billie then moved to Huron, Springfield, Aberdeen, and back to Huron. In 1995, he moved to Wessington.

He was a member of the VFW and American Legion at Wolsey. He was also a member of the Wessington Senior Center.

Grateful for having shared in his life are his three daughters and their husbands, Barbara and John Pollock of Clark, Bonnie and Steve Mees of Huron, and Becky and Butch Downey of Cavour; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and four sisters, Alice Joy of Aberdeen, Janet Bobeldyke of Huron, Betty Seter of Idaho, and Donna Stanfield of Spearfish.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Billie; one grandson, Tom; one grandson-in-law, Jesse; his long-time companion, Betty French; three brothers, Eldon, Ralph, and Bruce Stanfield; and one sister, Helen Estes.