Melanie Brockel

Melanie D. Brockel, 57, of Aberdeen, SD, died Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Avera St. Luke’s in Aberdeen.

Melanie D. Church was born on December 15, 1966, to Francis and Gladys (Nelson) Church in Ipswich, SD. She was raised and attended school in Faulkton, SD before moving to Aberdeen where she graduated from Aberdeen Central High School in 1985. Throughout her life, Melanie was a hard worker. She worked at Aberdeen Living Center, Avera Hospital, Aberdeen Chrysler Center, and most recently, Dacotah Bank. She loved her work and was always active and on the go.

On November 21, 1986, Melanie married Don Brockel and together they made their home in Aberdeen. They enjoyed trucking and traveling, attending music events, and being around family and friends.

Melanie was very loving and caring. She liked cooking, cleaning, doing crossword puzzles, and watching game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune. She had a special place in her heart for animals, whether it was wildlife, “Cool Cat” Eli, or her own Pomeranians, “Teddy” and “Bear”. She was a social butterfly and enjoyed talking with everyone. Melanie cherished her family and loved her children and grandchildren dearly.

Grateful for having shared Melanie’s life are her husband, Don Brockel; sons Terry Brockel (Blaire Bridger) and Nate (Hanna) Brockel; grandchildren: Landon Brockel, Aiden Brockel, Dawson Brockel; mother, Gladys Church; and siblings: Dale Church, Barb (Gary) Thornbrue, Joann Weifenbach, Paul Church, Mark (Greg) Church, and Theresa Dennis.

Preceding Melanie in death are her father, Francis Church; daughter, Sandra Brockel; sister, Patty Church; and brother, Roger Weifenbach.

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