Don Brekke, 65

Don Brekke, beloved son of Menford and Ruby Brekke, passed away on June 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer at Rochester Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN at the age of 65. He was born May 6, 1959. His birthday became a small holiday within the Brekke family when two of his nieces also came along in 1985 and 1987. Don was raised in Greenbush, MN, where he left an indelible mark on the community.

Don pursued his education at Dunwoody College of Technology and forged a successful career as a machinist. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish DRB Fabrication in 1997, a testament to his dedication and craftsmanship. Don worked closely with Wahl Bros Racing manufacturing sled parts. His creative outlet was working with and designing metal parts for companies, local businesses, and farmers. Don found solace in a simple cup of coffee and cherished moments spent with friends and family. Don’s routine-centered life reflected his values of consistency and reliability. Don’s predictability was part of his charm. From his signature wardrobe to the insulated coffee cup and thermos filled with coffee made just to his liking (watered down Folgers). He found joy in the simple pleasures of spending time with loved ones, whether at family gatherings or casual visits with friends. He was a familiar face at the race park in Greenbush. Saturday nights were a special occasion for him, where he indulged his love for racing. His family had to keep that in mind when planning any sort of gathering - Saturdays during race season were sacred. Beyond his professional achievements, Don was deeply involved in nurturing young talent. He generously mentored the high school robotics Team 5172, inspiring countless students to pursue their dreams in technology and engineering.

Don Brekke will be remembered for his boisterous laugh, knack for small talk, the common sense he so freely offered up, and profound impact on the lives he touched. Don made time for the things that were important to him; he showed up for his family and his friends whether it was a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or an evening meal. He was always counted on to sing his part in “Paradise by the Dashboard Lights” during any family gathering. His legacy as a loving son and brother, uncle to those both related and unrelated, devoted friend, and pillar of the community will continue to resonate for years to come.

“Uncle Donnie” loved his family and is survived by Lee (Nancy) Brekke; his loving sister, Ronna Seydel; nieces Rondi (Dustin) Johnson, Raechel (Brent) Newgard, and Rebecca (Jon) Fleming; nephews Robbie Brekke and Ethan (Kate) Brekke; special friend, Joy Sand; aunts, uncles and MANY cousins and friends. Don doted on his great-nephews and nieces: Carter (15), Reid (10), Grant (9), Addison (7), Ophelia (6) and Ezra (4).

Don is preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Gary Seydel; parents, Menford & Ruby (Jorgenson) Brekke; grandparents Johnnie & Minie (Lee) Jorgenson and Leonard & Rose (Minark) Brekke.

Services will be held at Oiland Lutheran Church, 30714 210th Ave, Greenbush, MN 56726, on Saturday, June 29, 20204 at 11:00AM. Visitation will be held Friday, June 28 from 5:00PM, with family service at 7PM to follow at DRB Fabrication, 700 County Road 7, Greenbush, MN 56726

Interment services will be held at Oilan Lutheran Church of rural Greenbush at a later date to be announced.

Collins Funeral Home