James "Jim" Norbert Esser, 75, of Redfield, SD, passed away surrounded by family on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Community Memorial Hospital in Redfield.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, at Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield. A Scriptural Prayer Service, Time of Sharing, and Rosary will follow at 7:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Redfield.  Reverend Brian Eckrich will officiate. Burial will follow the service at St. Bernard's Catholic Cemetery in Redfield.  Lunch and fellowship will follow in the church hall.

Both the prayer service and funeral Mass will be live-streamed through a link on the funeral home's website below Jim's obituary.  Hyke Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements (www.hykefuneralhome.com).

Jim was born to Roman and Theresa "Tressie" (Jandel) Esser on October 26, 1950, in Aberdeen, SD. Jim grew up on the family farm with his six siblings.  He attended school in Redfield and participated in wrestling and football.  He graduated from Redfield High School with the class of 1968.  After graduation, he continued his education at Jamestown College and Northern State University.

Jim married Jean Haider on August 17, 1979, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Zell, SD, and they made their home on a farm northeast of Redfield.  In 1985, his son, Chris, was born.  Jim farmed all his life. He worked with his dad for many years and then later with his son, Chris.

He had a passion for farming the land and raising livestock.  He was very handy at fixing anything that needed it.  He enjoyed spending time with his family, playing cards, and visiting.  He enjoyed having a cup of coffee with his friends at Redfield Equipment.  He liked watching football and sporting events on TV.

Jim's faith was unquestionable.  He had the deepest love for his family.  His wife, Jean, was his best friend.  He was so proud of his son, Chris.  It made him so happy that he had a son who wanted to farm and had a desire to be just like him.

Jim was a good husband, father, brother, and uncle.  He was a very honest person and a friend to all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jean, and his son, Chris.  He is survived by his brothers:  Fran (Carol) Esser of Redfield and Leo Esser of Fargo, ND.  He is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Peggy Esser of Fargo, ND, Mary Saathoff of Estelline, SD, and Sharol (Mike) Binger of Tulare, SD; brothers-in-law: Steven Haider and Jim (Peggy) Haider, all of Redfield; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roman and Theresa Esser; sister, Anna Marie (Cletus) Simbeck; brothers:  Chris, Mike, and Bill Esser; sister-in-law, Laura Esser; brother-in-law, John Haider; and nephew, Roman Esser.