Allen Berdahl Brown passed away on April 30, 2026, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls. A native and lifelong resident of Dell Rapids, Allen devoted his life to his family, his church, his community, the outdoors, and the practice of law. Allen’s funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026 in the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids. Interment with military rites will be in the Dell Rapids Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026 in the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids.
Born in Dell Rapids on April 8, 1934, to Ellsworth and Catherine (Briley) Brown, Allen was the oldest grandson among John and Carrie Berdahl Brown’s 40 grandchildren and the first in his family to be a fifth-generation South Dakotan.
After graduating from Dell Rapids High School, he became the first in his family to attend college, majoring in business at the University of South Dakota (USD). He was initiated into Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships. In 1954, he paused his education to serve in the United States Army, spending 20 months in Germany. He later returned to USD, completing his Bachelor of Business Administration and earning his Juris Doctor.
In 1961, Allen joined the Van Buren and Vogt law firm in Dell Rapids, a firm originally established by Gustavus Krause in 1891. Over a distinguished 55-year career, he specialized in probate, real estate, and income tax law—the latter keeping him busy most weekends during tax season for decades. He served as attorney for the City of Dell Rapids and the Dell Rapids School District and was widely respected by his clients and peers across the South Dakota Bar. He was a member of the State Bar of South Dakota for more than 50 years, earning recognition for his distinguished service to the legal profession, his clients, and his community.
Allen also served the state of South Dakota as a longtime member of the State Electrical Commission, including more than two decades of service. In recognition of his contributions to the state and his profession, he was honored by the Governor, and in 2011, November 13 was proclaimed “Allen B. Brown Day” in South Dakota, recognizing his 50 years of legal service and lasting impact on his community.
Allen married Gloria Jones in 1968. He loved to share the story of how his fraternity brother, South Dakota State Senator Jerry Lammers, introduced him to Gloria, his wife’s sister. Married for 57 years, Allen’s love and admiration for Gloria was constant and evident. Together, they raised two children, Bob and Kathy, and were deeply involved in their activities in the Dell Rapids Public Schools. In later years, Allen and Gloria cherished time spent traveling to visit children, grandchildren, relatives, and friends.
Allen and Gloria were devoted members and leaders at Dell Rapids Lutheran Church. Allen sang faithfully in the choir, sharing his beautiful tenor voice. He also performed with the El Riad Shrine Chanters, alongside his brother, cousins, and fellow community members. The group earned five first-place gold medals at international Shrine competitions. As a Shriner, he was a familiar presence at the Shrine Circus, where he sang the national anthem and volunteered his time year after year.
An avid outdoorsman, Allen enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father, brothers, and son. Duck and pheasant hunting were treasured traditions. He also found joy in gardening and cultivating flowers.
Allen’s devotion to Dell Rapids was evident through his lifelong service. A member of the Lions Club since 1964, he was honored as a Melvin Jones Fellow, the organization’s highest recognition for humanitarian service, and was also recognized on the Lions Clubs International Foundation Honor Roll. His commitment to community service was further recognized by the Dell Rapids Jaycees with a Distinguished Service Award, and through his involvement with the American Legion and the Dell Rapids Sportsmen’s Club, where he was awarded lifetime membership.
Allen took pride in preserving the character of his hometown, advocating for the protection of historic buildings and playing a key role in efforts to keep Dell Rapids’ City Hall on Main Street. He was later invited to deliver the keynote address at its dedication—a fitting honor for someone so deeply invested in the life of the community.
A public servant, trusted counselor, and devoted family man, Allen lived a life defined by integrity, humility, and service.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gail Munk Bares. Grateful to have shared his life are his wife, Gloria of Dell Rapids; son Bob Brown (Nancy) of Brentwood, CA; daughter Kathy Brandt (Wayne) of Tyler, MN; grandchildren Brady Park of Sioux Falls, Alison Vujnovic (Luke) of Tulsa, OK; and Adam Brown (Tiffini) of Austin, TX; four great-grandchildren; siblings Donald Brown of Green Valley, AZ, Richard “Dick” Brown of Sioux Falls, SD, and Janet Brown of Sioux Falls, SD; and twelve nieces and nephews.
The family of Allen B. Brown extends heartfelt gratitude to the Avera hospice team for their compassionate care, both at home and at the Dougherty Hospice House.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids, 701 N. Orleans, Dell Rapids, SD 57022.
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