RAPID CITY - Robert Sean Melvin, 59, died Thursday, June 20, 2024.

Robert was born on September 30, 1964 to Robert E. and Clarie (Neigel) Melvin. He graduated from Stevens High School in 1982. Robert served in the US Army and was honorably discharged as an SP4. As a result of his honorable and dedicated service, he received the Army Achievement Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

For many years, he was well known among locals and visitors as the bar manager at the Hotel Alex Johnson. He also fondly remembered his time as a car salesman at Rushmore Honda, and he helped many a friend find their dream ride and a good deal through him. His greatest professional achievement came at the age of 51 when he graduated with his Bachelor's in Nursing at National American University. Mostly recently, Robert was a nurse for the Department of Veterans Affairs where he enjoyed giving back to veterans like himself. His passion for nursing and caring for others was obvious to all who knew him. He was a hard worker and was held in high esteem by his family, bosses, coworkers, and friends.

He was a passionate fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Bengals and the Cincinnati Reds. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and hiking. All it took was one game with Robert to know he had a very competitive spirit. He was always looking to play a game of cards and be on a winning team. Above all, Robert loved the time he was able to spend with his friends. He always tried to live life to the fullest and to bring positivity and love to all around him. He was the life of the party and loved making other people laugh.

Of course, no picture of Robert is complete without mention of his babies: the Harley and his dogs. Robert's always been a Harley enthusiast, and he learned early on not to let his friends ride his bike, lest he wanted it in a pile at the end of the driveway. Robert loved Labrador retrievers, and he shared a special connection with his first three dogs Duchess, Duke, and Milo and his current dog, Gunner.

Robert will forever be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, coworker, and friend.

He is survived by his parents: Robert "Bob" E. and Clarie Melvin; sister, Dawn (Tim) Burttram; niece, Rachel Burttram; dog, Gunner; extended family and many friends.

Service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 24, 2024 at Fountain Springs Church with visitation starting at noon.

Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with military honors provided by the South Dakota Army National Guard and VFW Post 1273.

Robert's final wish was to be remembered in joy with a party. Please join us for his Celebration of Life the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn from 6pm to 9pm. We will share drinks, appetizers, and love in honor of Robert.

You can watch Robert's funeral service at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmRM2OY0fY0