John Overby

John Overby, 78 of Parker, passed away on July 6, 2026 at the VA Hospice Cottage, Sioux Falls. Memorial service will be held at 6:30 PM Sunday, July 12, 2026 at Twisted Pine Event Center, Parker, with Visitation beginning at 4:00 PM. The family requests that the public wear their patriotic colors to the service. In Lieu of Flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be put towards something in Honor of John. Arrangements provided by Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home.

John Overby was born on May 13, 1948, in Akron, Iowa, to Ole and Vernice (Jensen) Overby. As the oldest of three children, he shared a close bond with his younger siblings, Karen and James. The family later settled in Hurley, South Dakota, where John was raised and graduated from Hurley High School in 1966.

Following graduation, John proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He attained the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in June 1970, carrying with him a lifelong sense of duty and service.

On August 24, 1968, John was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Kathy Friman. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. Their union was blessed with three children: Tom, Lisa, and Jami. Over the years, they raised their family primarily on farms in the Viborg/Hurley area.

John dedicated more than 40 years of his life to the banking industry. Throughout his career, he served several banks, but he will be greatly remembered for his many years with Merchants State Bank. He played a key role in the bank's growth and expansion, helping establish multiple branch locations throughout the region. Known for his strong work ethic, sound leadership, and genuine commitment to the communities he served, John earned the respect and trust of both his colleagues and customers. His influence extended far beyond banking, leaving a lasting impact on the people and communities he helped support.

Outside of his banking career, John had many passions. In the early 1980s, he began farming and continued to do so until his retirement from banking, balancing both careers through hard work and dedication. He was also a respected civic leader who generously gave his time and talents by serving on numerous boards, committees, and community organizations. John was an avid classic car enthusiast and enjoyed spending time at Thunder Valley Dragways, where he shared his love of racing with family and friends. Above all, John treasured time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He rarely missed their games, concerts, graduations, and other special events, taking great pride in their accomplishments and offering unwavering love, encouragement, and support throughout their lives.

John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

John is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Kathy, of Parker; his children, Tom (Kaye) Overby of Vermillion, Lisa Carlson of Parker, and Jami (Matthew) Langeland of Amarillo, Texas; nine grandchildren, Kiana Overby, Hannah (Jordan) Strong, Connor (Miranda) Carlson, John C. Overby, Morgen (Keaton) Laible, Ellaina (Colin) Farrell, Kassidy Langeland, Vanessa Langeland, and Mattiah Langeland; three great-grandchildren, Jaylen and Rowan Strong and Tyce Carlson; his sister, Karen (Dr. Eugene) Reynolds of Largo, Florida; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ole and Vernice Overby; his brother, James Overby; his son-in-law, Chris Carlson; and his granddaughter, Evelynn Faye