Michael P. "Mike" Brainerd

Michael P. “Mike” Brainerd, 79, of Vermillion, SD, and formerly of Sioux City, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at Calvary Cemetery in Sioux City. Arrangements under the direction of Nelson-Berger Northside Chapel. Online condolences may be directed to www.meyerbroschapels.com.

Mike was born on November 28, 1943, in Sioux City, to Milton and Molly (Reeves) Brainerd.

He adored his grandchildren: Henry, Freddie, Isabelle, and Lucy. He loved playing games with them and attended all their extracurricular activities.

Mike enjoyed home remodeling and repairs, even in the nursing home. He loved watching the Iowa Hawkeyes and Steeler Football, and action movies with Bruce Willis, Clint Eastwood, or Steven Seagal. We don’t believe there was an antique store within a two hour drive that Mike hadn’t shopped. And, he never said “no” to a piece of fried chicken, a chocolate fried cinnamon roll, or a bag of peanut M&Ms.

Mike loved to tell stories to anyone who would listen. The best part is, they got better every time he told them—which was often! Even when his health began to decline, like when he lost a tooth, he found joy in making others laugh.

He is survived by his daughters: Jamie and Stephanie; his grandchildren; and his sister, Mary Ann.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings: True, Denny, and Judy.