Ricky J. Brownell

Ricky J. Brownell, age 69, of Watertown, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025, at his home. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown, with Rev. Janet Miller officiating. Honorary urnbearers will be Dmitrix Brownell, Miickel Brownell, Connor Herman, Trinity Herman, Kenley Brownell, Delton Brownell, Braxton Brownell, and Tucker Brownell.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday from 5–7 p.m. at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown.

Ricky was born on May 9, 1956, in Watertown, SD, to Donald and Ardell (Brinkman) Brownell. He graduated from Watertown High School and went on to work at Watertown Monument for over 30 years. Ricky was married twice during his life. Four children were born during his first marriage, and during his second marriage, he welcomed his fifth and youngest child, as well as a stepdaughter, Adrienne Lang.

Ricky was an active and caring person who loved to help wherever he could. He was a proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders, Legion Riders, and also participated in the Abate club.

When his children were young, Ricky did his best to be present for everything. He tried his best to show up to every school event or sport, his children meant the world to him. He especially cherished time spent hunting with his children and his father, with many mornings starting over big breakfasts lovingly prepared by his mother. He also passed along his skills and knowledge, teaching some of his kids how to drive and how to shoot—memories they will carry with them always.

Ricky gave generously of his time, often volunteering with the Monday Night Banquet, where he enjoyed both serving others and visiting with the guests. His Friday night bowling league was a weekly highlight. Even when he wasn’t able to bowl himself, he showed up to support his teammates and share in the fun.

He was also known for his humor and big personality. Ricky was a natural jokester who loved to make people laugh, and he could always be counted on to share a good story. His home was always open—a welcoming place where his children, grandchildren, and friends could walk in anytime to visit, knowing they were always welcome.

His love for riding never faded. Ricky was always looking forward to the next poker run, filling his weekends with the open road, good friends, and the freedom of being on his bike.

Above all, Ricky will be remembered for his love of family, his generous heart, and the laughter and stories he shared with everyone around him. His presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.

Ricky is survived by his children: Sharon Herman (Travis Klug) of Hayti, Eric Brownell of Brookings, Colby (Jessica) Brownell of Watertown, Rodney (Kayla) Brownell of Watertown, and Chelsea Brownell of Watertown; eight grandchildren; and one brother, Mike “Bernie” Brownell of Watertown.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfrodosthus.com Watertown and Hayti.

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