Dave Brakke

Dave Ellsworth Brakke, age 77, of Rock Dell, MN passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of July 4, 2021. Dave was born June 17, 1944 in Rochester, MN to Luther and Martha (Spiten) Brakke. Growing up he enjoyed helping out on the farm and always liked to stay busy. Shortly after high school, he married Sandy Beckman on December 1, 1962 at Kasson Methodist Church. The couple enjoyed fifty-eight and a half years together. They were blessed with two children, Mike and Missy. Dave worked at Crenlo for 38 years and later Fedex for 7 years before retiring. Dave and Sandy enjoyed living on the farm that he had grown up on and worked on during his early life. He was known to many as almost a second dad and was always someone who would lend a hand if needed, especially to his grandchildren. Dave was a fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins. He always had to know how something worked and would often take items apart, sometimes not getting them back together perfectly. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Lois McGovern; and nephews, Jeff McGovern and Brad McGovern. He is survived by his wife, Sandy; children, Mike (Heidi Holmes-Fitzgerald) Brakke of Rock Dell, and Missy (Jay) Scott of Wabasha; grandchildren, Jason, Emily, and Nickolas Scott; Heidi's children, Devin Fitzgerald, Jacob and Jaden Holmes; his sister, Judy (Wayne) Young; along with several nieces and nephews. A private family service will be held for Dave followed by a visitation Friday, July 9th from 4:00 p.m until 7:00 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Pl NW, Rochester, MN 55901. A Celebration of Life will be held July 10, 2021 from 12 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Rooster's, 2280 Superior Dr NW, Rochester, MN.