Holly MatkinSioux Falls, SD – Hyde County Sheriff Michael “Mike” Volek died on Nov. 1 due to natural causes, according to his family.
His exact cause of death was not released.
The 69-year-old sheriff passed away while in North Carolina, according to his obituary.
“He went home to the Good Lord on November 1st while enjoying the beautiful fall leaves of North Carolina in the company of a good long-time friend and his beloved wife, Dixie,” the tribute read.
Sheriff Volek devoted over 40 years of his life to his law enforcement career.
He also served with the Highmore Fire Department as an emergency medical technician and firefighter.
“Mike worked hard his whole life, always giving each task his best effort. He saw the value of a job well-done,” his obituary read. “When asked how his day was going, he would usually respond, ‘Any day God gives me health and the ability to get up and go to work is a good day.’”
He served as sheriff of Hyde County for 22 years, KDLT reported.
Serving in a rural community is a difficult job, HCSO Deputy Nathan Brady noted in a department press release.
“Volek’s tenure should be commended,” Deputy Brady said. “Those of us serving rural areas are committed to providing emergency services and law enforcement, whether it involves friend, family or foe. It is done in our hometown where we often know those involved well, which isn’t easy. I thank him for bringing me to this community. I will miss him.”
Sheriff leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Dixie, as well as his daughter, Shanda, and his grandsons, Kaden and Koen, according to his obituary.
He will be laid to rest on Nov. 12.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Hyde County Sheriff Michael “Mike” Volek, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
