Clyde Oswald recovery from the Missouri River

Clyde Oswald (my uncle) and his son Dylan went ice fishing (24-inch-thick ice) on January 27, 2022, on Lake Oahe (within the Missouri River) near Mobridge, SD. It got frigid cold, and the winds picked up, so they decided to stop fishing for the night and head to their respective homes around 9:20 pm.

After Dylan saw that his father’s vehicle started, and thinking Clyde was following behind, Dylan headed to the boat ramp on his ATV where his vehicle was parked. This was the last time Dylan saw his father. Once Dylan realized his father was not behind him, he started frantically searching around the ice, in the town of Mobridge, SD, and the Standing Rock Reservation. He called Clyde’s phone until it started going straight to voice mail. He then contacted the local police department about the events and reported him missing.

Once the search began, they noticed peculiarities consistent with a motor vehicle going through the ice near a pressure ridge close to where Clyde and Dylan were fishing. The search has been fully transitioned from land to the depths of the Missouri River where his son last saw him.

Clyde brought light into everyone’s lives with his contagious laughter and positivity. He enjoyed sharing his wealth of knowledge and emphasizing the true beauty of the outdoors to all of those who would listen.

Our entire family is forever grateful to all those who have assisted with the search for Clyde. Even though there are many that are donating their time and equipment, there are still costs involved with a search of this size and in these conditions. They were quoted early on to expect costs between $7 thousand to $10 thousand dollars for vehicle removal alone. This is a cost that Clyde’s widow, Sandy can not afford on her own or with the small amount of assistance their extended family can provide. We are grateful for whatever amount can be given. Updates will be made on the progress of the rescue mission and the costs associated with the efforts. Sandy has also decided to move across the state for a fresh start away from the river. A small portion of the funds will go to helping her relocate and establish a small residence. Any other funds raised that are not used for search and rescue bills and Sandy’s relocation will be donated to the local search team for their valiant effort in locating Clyde and attempting to bring his family some closure.

January 27; Clyde went missing

January 28; Thermal imaging used

January 28; Planes and drones used as well as a dive team

January 29; Still not located despite that valiant search

Waiting for a magnetometer, no diving due to weather conditions

February 3; Metal detector found something not sure what

February 4; divers could not find anything

February 9; Dive teams from all over the state come to assist in the search