Richard "Dick" L. Brekke

Richard "Dick" L. Brekke, 86, of Washington, Ill., passed away peacefully on January 14, 2022. Born on December 3, 1935, in Clark County, South Dakota to Selmer and Eva Brekke. He was the youngest of seven, three brothers and three sisters, all who preceded him in death.

He married JoAnne Fox in Washington, Ill. on December 22, 1953, and they raised 4 children, in Washington, Beth (Scott) Gundy, Todd Brekke, Christopher (Louise) Brekke, and David Brekke. JoAnne preceded him in death on January 25, 1994. Dick is survived by his loving partner Donna Weber, with whom he spent the past 27 years. He is also survived by his four children, 14 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Dick was also preceded in death by his grandson Wesley Gundy.

He worked in the automobile business in Central Illinois for 42 years, owning Brekke Auto Sales in Washington from 1980-1994. Dick spent his entire adult life in the car business, and his profession wasn't just a job, it was what he loved to do. With a twinkle in his eye, he never hesitated to crack a joke and had a gift for making people feel special. He didn't know a stranger and was a friendly face to many in Washington.

Dick enjoyed fishing, boating, and pheasant hunting in his native South Dakota. His ever-present cheerful whistle and his colorful expressions and nicknames given to many in his life are a source of joy and comfort to those who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, January 22, 2022, at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Lung Association. Richard's memorial website is available at  https://www.masonfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Richard-Brekke where condolences may also be sent to his family.