Background
Oviatt, Ross Hannum was born on April 14, 1918 in Huron, South Dakota, United States. Son of Thad Walter and Grace (Hannum) Oviatt.
Oviatt, Ross Hannum was born on April 14, 1918 in Huron, South Dakota, United States. Son of Thad Walter and Grace (Hannum) Oviatt.
Juris Doctor, University South Dakota, 1941.
Practiced in Watertown, since 1945; partner, Oviatt, Green, Schulz & Roby (and predecessors), 1945-1983; associate, Green, Schulz, Roby & Ford, 1983-1989; of counsel, Green, Schulz, Roby & Oviatt, since 1989; state's attorney, Codington County, 1951-1955. Member South Dakot Judicial Council, 1960-1968, 73-74.
Member South Dakota Judicial Qualifications Commission, 1979-1983, chairman, 1981-1983. Chairman South Dakota Senate Screening Committee for United States District Judge Applicants. Member federal practice committee District South Dakota 8th Circuit, 1980-1986.
Chancellor South Dakota Annual Conference United Methodist Church, 1981-1990. Lieutenant Commander United States Naval Reserve, 1942-1945. Fellow American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (regent 1975-1981), American Bar Foundation (South Dakota chairman 1979-1987), International Society Barristers, American Board Trial Advocates (advisory, president South Dakota chapter 1981-1982).
Member American Bar Association (house of deals 1960-1973, governor 10th District 1968-1971, state delegate 1978-1987), South Dakota Bar Association (president 1973-1974), American Judicature Society (director 1971-1975), Phi Delta Phi. Clubs: Masons.
Married Marion Melham, October 12, 1943. Children: Timothy M., Jonathan J., Nancy Lou.