With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Hartley “Hart” Nordbye — beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend — who departed this life on June 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 58 years old.
Born in Brookings, South Dakota, Hart lived a life marked by kindness, strength, and unwavering love for his family.
He was known for his steady presence, quick wit, and deep devotion to those he loved. Over the years, Hart owned and operated several businesses, including Chevy’s Bar & Grill, Rexcon Materials, and Crescent Beach Transport. He spent countless hours building his family’s dream home on Lake Poinsett — a true labor of love.
Hart found joy in life’s simple pleasures: fishing, barbecuing, rebuilding hot rods, boating, and hosting impromptu music parties for neighbors and friends on the lake. But more than anything, his greatest pride and purpose were found in his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Hart is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Laura; his children, Kyle, Conner, and Kali (Baysinger); his son-in-law, Colton Baysinger; his cherished grandchildren, Ellie, Emsleigh, Everly, and Elaina, and brother, Donald Nordbye, and four sisters, Diane Owens, Joanie (Greg) Himley, Shirley Christopherson and Becky Konop. He is also remembered fondly by extended family and countless dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hartley and Frances Nordbye, and his brother, Steve Nordbye.
Hart faced his illness with grace, dignity, and incredible bravery — teaching all who knew him the meaning of true resilience. His legacy of love, integrity, and bold strength will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Hart’s memory to Prairie Lakes Home Health and Hospice in Watertown, South Dakota.
We will miss him beyond words, but are forever grateful for the time we shared and the love he gave so freely.
