Richard “Rick” F. Brandes

Richard “Rick” F. Brandes, 70, of South Sioux City, passed away on March 9, 2026, surrounded by his family after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born on July 10, 1955, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Richard and Mariana (Porter) Brandes, Rick graduated from West High School before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Sciences from South Dakota State University. On September 10, 1977, he married Patricia “Pat” McKinney in Sioux City. Together they owned and operated two Dairy Queen locations in the Siouxland area for many years.

Rick found great joy in hunting and fishing with his cousins, riding his motorcycle, and boating with friends and family. He and Pat especially treasured their travels to the Black Hills, where they created many lasting memories together.

He is survived by his wife, Pat; daughters Brianna Reed (Jeremy) and Blair Brandes (Perry Bergh); and grandchildren Caleb, Casen, and Gavin Reed, and Brayson and Brenlyn Bergh. Rick is also survived by many cousins he regarded as siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters-in-law, and several cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins.