Richard “Rick” F. Brandes, 70 of South Sioux City, passed away Monday, March 9, 2026, surrounded by family, after a lengthy battle with cancer. A visitation will be held with family present from 5-7 P.M. with a celebration of life service at 7 P.M. on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Mohr & Becker-Hunt funeral home.

Rick was born on July 10, 1955, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Richard and Mariana (Porter) Brandes. He graduated from West High School and later earned his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Sciences from South Dakota State University. On September 10, 1977, Rick married Patricia “Pat” McKinney in Sioux City, Iowa. Together, they owned and operated two Dairy Queen locations in the Siouxland area for many years.

Rick enjoyed spending time hunting and fishing with his cousins. He also had a passion for riding his motorcycle and boating with friends and family. Rick and Pat especially cherished traveling together to the Black Hills, where they created many lasting memories.

Rick is survived by his wife, Pat; his two daughters, Brianna Reed (Jeremy) and Blair Brandes (Perry Bergh); and his cherished grandchildren, Caleb, Casen, and Gavin Reed, and Brayson and Brenlyn Bergh. He is also survived by many cousins whom he regarded as siblings.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters-in-law, as well as several cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins.