Bret Allan Brown, 54, passed away on July 6, 2026, at Ava's House in Sioux Falls, surrounded by his family.

Bret was born on August 24, 1971, in Minneapolis, MN, to David and Yvonne (Setterlof) Brown. He grew up in Elk River, MN, and graduated from Alliance Christian Academy in 1989. On January 4, 1997, during a blizzard in Hibbing, MN, he married the love of his life, Rebecca (Erickson). Bret worked at a family recycling business in Elk River, which he later owned and operated for over 20 years. In 2024, he and his wife moved to Sioux Falls, where he was employed as a Facilities Caretaker for Lloyd Companies at the time of his death.

Bret lived life with a servant's heart. He took pride in completing a job correctly, even if it took extra time. Few possessed a stronger work ethic than Bret. He had a passion for making others feel seen, heard, and welcomed, especially children, individuals with special needs, and anyone going through difficult times. He had a natural ability to strike up conversations with just about anyone. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, playing games, attending Minnesota sporting events, biking, hiking, and umpiring baseball and softball games.

Bret is survived by his wife of 29½ years, Becci; his children, Payton Brown, Parker (Megan) Brown, and Bailey Brown, all of Sioux Falls, SD; and one granddaughter on the way. He is also survived by his mother, Yvonne Hetland of Big Lake, MN; his sister, Daunette (Scott) Throolin of Big Lake, MN; and many other loving family members, including aunts, uncles, siblings-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and loyal friends. Bret was preceded in death by his grandparents, his father, David Brown, and his stepfather, Dick Hetland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Union Gospel Mission Sioux Falls, Camp Judson, Feeding South Dakota, or Ava's House.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at The Point is to Serve Church, located at 506 N. Kiwanis Ave., Sioux Falls. The family is encouraging guests to wear purple or blue, Bret's favorite colors. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Miller Funeral Home-Downtown, 507 S. Main Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104.

Bret is known and loved by many, and now he is in the presence of his Creator. Well done, good and faithful servant.