James "Basil" Hofer, 45, of Harrisburg, SD passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, July 25, 2023 in his home from natural causes. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, July 31, 2023 at Resurrection Lutheran Church. Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM with a 4:30 prayer service Sunday, July 30, 2023 at Will Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery.

Basil was born in Huron, SD on January 3rd, 1978, to James and Karla (Kolb) Hofer.  He spent his childhood growing up in Mitchell, SD with his two brothers, John, Joey, and Tim Moon, his brother from another mother. He was always social and happiest when among his friends.  He kept busy mowing lawns, playing football, or racing on the local dirt tracks with his family.  Basil was a well- known friend to all, except high school referees, and didn't know a stranger as a child, nor in adulthood.   He graduated from Mitchell High School in 1996 and furthered his studies at Brown Communications School in Minneapolis, MN and Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD.

Also known to some as JB, he began his working career in 1999 and worked four years with Cendant Corporation (Super 8) as a Quality Assurance Field representative.  His passion led him to Las Vegas, NV to pursue the sportsbook and gaming industry.  Basil enjoyed fifteen years there working for sportsbooks and casinos, meeting lifelong friends, and learning the industry while mastering his craft.  In 2019 he joined BetFred Sportsbook, UK to open their inaugural United States location in Larchwood, Iowa.  He eventually decided to chase his dream, joining partners to form BetKota Sportsbook in 2021.  They officially launched their company February 2022, located inside the Midnight Star in Deadwood, South Dakota.  He loved his job and had a passion for the gamesmanship he had with each bettor.

Outside work, you could find Basil watching his nieces and nephews in their activities, catching a stock car race at the local tracks, attending college or pro sporting events with his "entourage," or spoiling Peaches.   His greatest joy and pride were his family and host of friends.   Basil treasured every relationship. There was never a doubt about Basil's loyalty to those he loved.  His parents, brothers, nieces, nephews, and many close friends and family will deeply miss their frequent chats, banter about upcoming games, and the latest updates on professional or college teams and players.

Eternally grateful for having shared his life: Parents James and Karla Hofer of Mitchell, SD; Grandmother Ever Andresen of Mitchell, SD; siblings: John (Beth) Hofer of Basehor, KS, Joey (Jodi) Hofer of Mitchell, SD;  nieces Kiesha, Keira, Paige and Piper and nephews Brock, Ty, Cole and Kale, who will each dearly miss their proud and loving uncle;  many aunts, uncles, cousins, and so, so many friends.

Basil was preceded in death by grandparents Basil Kolb, Joe and Elaine Hofer, and Alan Andresen.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to organizations important to Basil. Big Friend, Little Friend of Mitchell, SD, as well as Mitchell High School Football, Basketball and Wrestling teams.