James David Hybertson

James David Hybertson, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 27th, surrounded by loving family and friends.

James was born on June 27, 1954, at McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Ferdinand and Barbara (Leifgen) Hybertson. He was the oldest of five children: Sharon, Richard, Sandra, and Thomas.

He grew up on the family farm five miles north of Centerville, where he learned the value of hard work by helping with farming and raising livestock, including cattle and sheep. His mother was adamant that James receive an education and also learn to play the piano. What began as insistence turned into excellence. James not only learned to play — he mastered it — and he continued playing faithfully throughout his life, practicing almost every Sunday, right up until his passing.

In high school, James played the trumpet and served as drum major of the marching band, a role that fit his natural confidence and presence. He graduated from Centerville High School and then attended Dakota State College majoring in music. Later he returned home to help on the farm and work alongside his father, Ferd, and his grandfather, John Hybertson, in construction. He later attended auctioneer school in Mason City, IA. Of all the trades he learned, he pursued coursework in masonry, developing skills that would shape his career.

One memorable summer, James and his friend Gene took a lengthy road trip, where they ended up spending several weeks at Muscle Beach in California, pumping iron and exploring the possibility of a bodybuilding career. He enjoyed the beach and the weightlifting but not the crowds and traffic — small-town life ultimately suited him best.

On a New Year’s Eve blind date, James met Carla Larsen. They were married the following year in 1980. Together they built a life in Viborg, raising their two sons, Jared and Jordon, on a large lot across from the hospital in town.

Eventually in the mid 1980’s, James founded Hybertson Masonry, building not only structures out of brick and block, but also a reputation for craftsmanship and integrity. He took pride in hard work and doing things the right way. James helped build and shape several recognizable prominent buildings and structures across the region. James took a lot of pride in his business and craftsmanship. He enjoyed the relationships that he made along the way with the people he worked with and that worked for him.

James was an avid reader, especially of nonfiction. From the Bible to masonry manuals, finance, chess strategy, and political works, James was always expanding his mind. He loved conversation — especially about politics — and he wasn’t afraid to share his thoughts.

Sundays often meant cooking and grilling for family. His chili soup became somewhat legendary among those who were lucky enough to enjoy it. He also enjoyed golfing on Sundays as a way to unwind, often alongside friends and family.

James had a sharp strategic mind. He loved chess, poker, darts, bowling, and pool. He particularly enjoyed Texas Hold’em and placed high in several local tournaments over the years. He spent several years playing in pool league, relishing both the competition and the camaraderie of his teammates.

James loved a variety of music but enjoyed mostly enjoyed 60’s and 70’s classic rock. He also enjoyed making the rounds to visit friends at some of his favorite watering holes. He loved visiting and all the good local conversation he would find. He also really enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren compete in sporting events and then boasting to his friends about them. James was a very loving and caring person. While growing up he spent most weekends and summers living in Beresford with his grandmother, mowing yards, helping her at the café, and also working at the Beresford Locker, where he learned butchering skills from Harry Bean. James had made several good and lifelong friends from Beresford.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Ferdinand and Barbara Hybertson, and his wife Carla. He is survived by his sons, Jared (Christe) Hybertson and Jordon Hybertson; three grandchildren, Hogan, Hadisyn, and Henley; and his siblings, Sharon (Robert) Hustrulid, Richard (Bonnie), Sandra, and Thomas (Karla), along with many extended family members and friends.

James will be remembered for his intelligence, strong work ethic, many talents, competitive spirit, strong opinions, deep voice, and loud laugh that could light up a room. Jim might be remembered most for his love for his family and friends. He will be missed.