Walter Thomas Omdahl

Walter Thomas Omdahl passed away March 11, 2024, at the age of 70 after a long health battle. He was born, in Kadoka, SD on July 8, 1953, and was the oldest of seven children born to Thomas Clifford and Elaine Louise (Schulz) Omdahl. Walter grew up on the family ranch North of Philip. Making sure his family was taken care of was always priority to Walt. Even as a kid himself, he helped look out for his younger siblings, during tough times growing up. He made sure his little brother Gary was confirmed following the passing of his mother.
Walter was very experienced and knowledgeable about mechanics, farming, and ranching and would use those skills throughout his life. He enjoyed reading, studying, and discussing these topics with all types of people. His love of Hereford cattle was passed on to him by his Grandpa Schulz. He learned to cook from his mom and grandma Schulz, and was known for his fried chicken, chili, and omelets. Walt’s turnip chili was a memorable meal.  
Hard work was a key trait of Walter’s personality. He never shied away from tough jobs and instilled the same ethics in his children. He pushed them to be problem solvers and did not hesitate to give them tough tasks. During his life he worked as a mechanic, drove trucks, farmed, and raised livestock, among many other jobs. Being part of the Belle Fourche police reserves was a joy of his. His favorite parts were riding the horses, Bumper and Festus, as a mounted police officer and meeting people from all over the country during fourth of July celebrations.
Walter married Marie Brady in 1977. During his 26 years of health battles Marie was always by his side for support and care. They raised their family of one son and five daughters primarily in western South Dakota. His biggest joys in life were seeing his 14 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He loved to talk to them about their lives and to give them suggestions to inspire creative ideas. He would often perk up and rally when his kids or grandkids would visit.
Funeral services will be held at Hope Lutheran Church in Spearfish, SD on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at www.jdrf.org. Walter’s family would also like to express their gratitude to Spearfish Canyon Healthcare, Spearfish Monument Hospital, and Spearfish Monument Health Dialysis Center for all their love and exceptional care of Walter over the years.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents, and grandparents; sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Tom Olsen; brother and sister-in-law Gary and Nancy Omdahl; infant siblings, Andrew and Nancy.  Walter is survived by his wife Marie, children; Matt (Jodi) Omdahl, Kate (John) Schmidt, Elaine (Sanden) Simons, Eva Omdahl, Olivia (Matt) Strohschein and Mary (Al) Chang, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings David (Bonnie) Omdahl and Jane Omdahl.
Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com <http://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com/>