Hugh Edward O'Byrne

Hugh Edward O’Byrne, age 84, passed away on November 13, 2025 at home in Albert Lea, surrounded by his family.

A Memorial service will be held Monday, November 24, 2025 at 11:00 am, with visitation beginning at 9:30 am at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea. Military honors and a light lunch will take place right after the service, with interment later in the afternoon.

Hugh was born June 25, 1941 in Albert Lea Minnesota, to William and Ann (Harty) O’Byrne. Hugh was the middle child of 7 siblings. Catherine, Mary, Bill, Hugh, Mike, Tom and Robert. He grew up in Albert Lea, attended St. Theodore School and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1959. The day after graduation he joined the Navy and served until 1964. After serving in the Navy he graduated from Mankato State University in 1967. In 1968 Hugh married Karen Rae Peterson and were blessed with two daughters, Christine and Angela. Hugh and Karen celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary this year.

Hugh was the broker/owner of O’Byrne Realty, Gallery of Homes, Century 21 and eventually ‘retired’ with O’Byrne Realty. He owned Northland Auction company and made many friends in the auction and real estate world. He never truly retired, but he did enjoy the extra time in his shop working on his tractors, skid loader, and mowers.

Hugh was known in the community as a respected businessperson and always had a deal in the works. He was the initial developer of Wedgewood Cove Golf Course. He brought to life many subdivisions in Albert Lea, including Sundance, Chapeau Shores and Wild Ridge to name a few. He even named a few streets after his family. Ashley Court, Brandon Avenue, Angela Avenue and Christine Avenue. He had many past customers who remained loyal and bought or sold houses with him multiple times over his 50+ years in the real estate business. The family often hears “Hugh is such a great guy” and how customers loved working with him.

Hugh was known for his quick wit and generosity. Always had words of advice and would stand up for what he thought was right. He had many wonderful friends whom he truly enjoyed. He spent many summer nights out on the lake, camping weekends, country concerts and vacationing in Mexico with Karen and friends. He especially loved hosting his annual Super Bowl party. Hugh was one of a kind and considered quite the character.

Hugh was especially proud of his girls Chris and Angie. Both girls worked alongside him, clerking auctions, even in extreme weather conditions. Chris had the pleasure of working beside her dad selling real estate for many years. Grandpa Hugh Loved his 7 grandchildren and always welcomed their visits with a big smile and loved to hear what they had been up to. Hugh and Karen built their home for their family in 1978 and continued to enjoy it every day. Hugh was so proud of his beautiful home and his favorite spot on the deck overlooking his lake. Karen worked faithfully over the last few years taking care of Hughs declining health, so he was able to stay in their home.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Karen, daughters Christine (Steve) Vogt, Angela (Dan) Kolker. His grandchildren, Ashley O’Byrne, Nickolas Vogt, Brandon Hugh Vogt, Stephanie Vogt, Jessica Vogt, Jacob Kolker and Sydney Kolker. His brother Mike O’Byrne (Paulette). Brother and sister in-law Don and Shirley Peterson, sister-in-law Evelyn Costello. As well as many nieces and nephews who enjoyed their time with Uncle Hugh.

Hugh is preceded in death by his parents, William and Ann, sisters, Catherine O’Byrne and Mary Bennett, Brothers, Robert, Tom and Bill, who passed away last month. His father and mother-in-law Glenn and Verna Peterson, brother-in-law Chuck Costello and sister-in-law Jan O’Byrne.

The family would like to thank these special friends: Howard, thank you for always stopping out to say “Hi”. Larry, thank you for the ride-alongs. Brian, thank you for the Saturday morning breakfasts with the guys, and Marv, thank you for picking Hugh up every Wednesday for lunch.

Additional thank you to the VA caregiving team for the wonderful home helpers who came in to help both Hugh and Karen. Thank you to Cornerstone and St. Croix Hospice for arranging the care in Hugh’s last days so the family could spend quality time with him and be there with him until the end.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Theodore Catholic School, Hollandale Christian School, Youth for Christ, or a charity of your choice.

Hugh was a special guy who will be truly missed by all who loved him.

Rest in Peace, Grandpa Hugh.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral and Cremation Service. Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the live stream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.