In Memoriam: Harvey Krautschun, South Dakota’s Political Giant
On January 1, 2026, South Dakota lost a towering figure in both its political and business arenas. Harvey Krautschun, former Speaker of the House, passed away at the age of 76. A mentor to many and a dedicated public servant, Krautschun left an indelible impact on the state he dearly loved.
Harvey Krautschun
Harvey Krautschun’s legislative journey began in 1985 when he was elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives, where he served until 1996. In this period, he rose to the esteemed position of Speaker of the House from 1995 to 1996. Known for his forward-thinking and unwavering dedication, Krautschun was not only a political stalwart but also a key figure in the business community, co-founding and nurturing Financial Benefits, Inc. in Spearfish alongside his partner Tamara Burke.
Krautschun’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements; his passionate love for South Dakota was evident in his lifelong commitment to the state’s prosperity and welfare. He was a man of many passions, including a profound admiration for the U.S. Marines and a steadfast belief in political conservatism. His love for his family, the Black Hills, firearms, beef, and the Green Bay Packers painted the picture of a man deeply rooted in his values and traditions.
Mentor and Friend
For many in the South Dakota political scene, Harvey Krautschun was much more than a colleague. State Representative Scott Odenbach recounts the pivotal role Krautschun played in his political journey. “If South Dakota had our own version of Teddy Roosevelt, it would be Harvey Krautschun,” Odenbach said, recalling how Krautschun’s encouragement led him to run for a House seat with Krautschun as his campaign chairman.
Scott Odenbach
“When I won that first election,” Odenbach continues, “Harvey gave me two main pieces of advice: Stay humble and always remember, this seat belongs to the people, not to me.”
Community Building and Legacy
Krautschun’s influence also permeates the educational sector, notably at Black Hills State University (BHSU). The Joy Center on campus not only stands as a testament to his late wife, Joy Krautschun, but also symbolizes their deep connection to the institution. Harvey’s spirit was emblematic of the resilience and determination he showed as a young athlete on BHSU’s football team, where he earned a reputation for fearlessly charging forward.
Celebrating Life and Community
As we commemorate his life, it is evident that Krautschun’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His advice on public service, emphasizing humility and service to the people, remains a guiding principle for many.
Harvey suffered great physical challenges in his later years, yet his spirit remained unbroken. It was during these moments that his ability to find joy in laughter and offer counsel to others shone brightly. His love for Jesus and belief in being reunited with Joy provided comfort to him and those close to him.
Reflecting on Krautschun’s life, Scott Odenbach offered these heartfelt words: “Caring about friends. Standing up for what’s right. Laughing in the face of adversity. Carrying on no matter what. Semper Fi, Kraut!”
As South Dakota bids farewell to one of its cherished sons, the values and dedication that he personified will always be a beacon for those who walk in his footsteps. His contributions to the state and its people mark him as a true South Dakota giant.