Brian Mutchler

Brian Mutchler, 70, of Yankton, SD passed away Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. A Celebration of Life will be held in Yankton this October. Online condolences may be sent at www.okfhc.com. Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home of Yankton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Brian Keith Mutchler, affectionately known as "Butch," age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Avera McKennan Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Brian was born and raised in Yankton, South Dakota, and graduated from Yankton High School in 1974. An incredibly gifted runner, he often shared stories of his accomplishments in cross country and track and the pride he had in his running. Following graduation, he spent a short time in Fort Worth, Texas, from 1976 to 1977 before returning to Yankton, where he began working for Old Home Bread Company.

In 1992, Brian moved his family to Valentine, Nebraska, where he worked for Frito-Lay. He returned home to Yankton in 1996 and began a long career with Wilson Trailer, where he worked until his retirement in 2022. It wasn't uncommon to be driving down the road with him when he'd point to a trailer and say, "You see that Wilson trailer? I built that." He took great pride in his work and knowing that something he helped create will continue traveling highways across the country brings a smile to the faces of those who loved him.

Brian was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family, but his greatest joy was found in the simple moments spent with the people he loved. In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He maintained a large garden, tackled countless home improvement projects, and cherished time spent with his children, whether coaching T-ball and soccer or simply being present for life's everyday moments.

After retirement, Brian developed a remarkable green thumb and could often be found tending to his lawn and flowers for hours at a time. His backyard became his oasis. He enjoyed grilling and perfecting recipes on his smoker, taking walks with his beloved dog, Sam, and spending summers fishing on the Missouri River in Pierre. He loved gathering with family in Pierre for Fourth of July celebrations, spending the day making memories and ending the evening watching fireworks together.

Brian was always up for an adventure and was the ultimate travel companion. Whether it was a cross-country road trip or a flight to somewhere new, he rarely turned down an opportunity to explore with his children. Over the years, he created countless memories traveling with family to Washington, D.C., Virginia, Alaska, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Florida, and throughout the Pacific Northwest. He looked forward to trips to Vancouver, Washington, where he enjoyed hiking, visiting the beach, and exploring with his daughters and grandchild.

During the winter months, Brian rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his grandsons at the hockey rink. In the summer, he treasured his Wednesday night horseshoe games with friends, Friday evening garage beers, and early morning coffee gatherings with his retired crew.

Brian will be remembered for his unmatched sense of humor, his ability to make people laugh, and his famous "Spanky" dance. Brian loved a good joke and loved laughing even more. Family gatherings were often filled with games, stories, and laughter that seemed to go on for hours. His laugh was larger than life—loud, infectious, and impossible to ignore. He loved deeply and unconditionally, never took himself too seriously, and always found a way to bring joy to those around him. His kindness, laughter, and presence created lasting memories for everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Brian was formerly married to Suzanne, with whom he shared seven children. He is survived by his children, Beth VerBeek (Chris), Leah Rezac (Tony), Mikayla Jones, Tyler Mutchler, and Jordyn Mutchler; his beloved grandchildren, Emerson, Ellie, Billy, Natalie, Jacob, Wyatt, Gage, and Layla; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Jean Mutchler; his sons, Aaron and Joel Mutchler; his brother, Mark Mutchler; his sister, Brenda Chambers; and his nephew, Nicholas Lacroix.

The loss of Brian leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, who absolutely adored him, and the many friends who were fortunate enough to know him. While our hearts are broken by his absence, we find comfort in the memories he gave us, the laughter he shared, and the love he so freely gave throughout his life.

In one final act of generosity, Brian chose to be a tissue donor. Through this gift, he will continue to impact the lives of countless individuals for years to come.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Yankton on October 3, 2026. Additional details will be shared at a later date.