Donald Wayne "Don" Brown

1942 - 2024

Donald "Don" Wayne Brown

February 8, 1942 - August 23, 2024

RAPID CITY - Born February 8, 1942, in Liberal, Kan., to Marlin and Erna (Enns) Brown, Donald "Don" Wayne Brown passed away August 23, 2024, at Monument Hospice House due to complications from a fall, surrounded by his wife and family.

Don grew up on a farm outside of Liberal and attended Wideawake County School through eighth grade and learned the value of hard work from an early age. He served as Junior and Senior Class President and graduated from Liberal High School in 1960.

One of his first jobs after the farm was working nights in a Texaco station. During high school, Don and his brother started Brown Brothers Combining to save money for college. By his senior year, they were operating eight combines and eight trucks, supported by a dedicated crew. Ever industrious, Don and his brother built a 4-plex apartment complex when Don was just 21.

He began farming near Sublette and Garden City, Kan., growing irrigated corn and wheat and took courses at the Liberal Vocational-Technical School. In 1970, he received the Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year Award, a recognition of which he was extremely proud. Don continued farming in Kansas until 1974, when he sold his farm and purchased farmland in South Dakota. He earned his pilot's license in 1973 enjoying flying both for work and pleasure.

Don married Betty Wheeler with whom he had two children, Saundra and Patrick, before their divorce in 1982. In 1988, he married Cherie (Gladstone) Brekhus and they enjoyed 36 years together, building a new home, farming, hunting, golfing, and traveling.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerry; sister-in-law, Marjorie; and niece, Betty Jo.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cherie Brown; daughter, Saundra (Barry) Shaw; son, Patrick (Stacey) Brown; stepson, Michael (Beth) Brekhus; grandchildren, Kelli, Leigh, Justin, Alana, Mitchell, and Miles; and sister-in-law, Trish Kiely.

In accordance with Don's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at Arrowhead Country Club, Thursday, August 29, 2024 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Don's name may be made to Rapid City Youth and Family Services, Calvary Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements with www.osheimschmidt.com.