Leo Brewer Sr.

Leo Ira Louie Brewer, Sr., 97, passed away on July 7, 2025.

A graveside service will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026, at St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery, Faulkton, with military honors.

Leo Ira Louie Brewer, Sr. was born March 3, 1928, in Faulk County, South Dakota, Leo lived a long and remarkable life defined by hard work, service to his country, devotion to family, and dedication to his community.

Leo was born to Joseph Andrew Brewer and Theresa Janet Brewer and grew up alongside his six brothers on the family farm in South Dakota. From a young age, he learned the value of perseverance and responsibility while helping with every aspect of farm life. He planted, cultivated, and harvested crops on farms spanning hundreds of acres, cared for livestock, drove mule teams and trucks, and repaired farm equipment. These early experiences shaped the strong work ethic and determination that remained with him throughout his life.

Following high school, Leo enlisted in the Armed Forces of the United States during World War II, entering service in June 1946 at Fort Riley in Omaha, Kansas. While serving with the 82nd Airborne Division, he earned his Parachutist Badge after completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia. Following the loss of his older brother in the Battle of the Bulge, Leo was assigned to the role of Administrative N.C.O. with the Enlisted Personnel Section, Military Personnel Office, Assistant Chief of Staff, G-1. In this highly responsible position, Sergeant Brewer supervised clerks and personnel staff while maintaining extensive knowledge of Army regulations, orders, and administrative procedures. His dedication and leadership were evident throughout his military service.

After his years in the military, Leo built a successful career working with Standard Oil, ESSO, ENCO, and Exxon corporations. Later in life, alongside his son Bill and daughter-in-law Connie, Leo opened Angel’s Antique and Flea Mall in Opelika, Alabama, on November 2, 2002. The business became a great success and remained an important part of Leo’s life. He faithfully managed the accounting side of the business until the Friday before his passing.

Leo was known by many as “Paw Paw” and cherished every opportunity to spend time with family and friends. He enjoyed golfing, tending to his beautiful flowers, traveling, and sharing stories and laughter with those he loved. An avid hunter throughout his life, Leo especially treasured taking his children back to South Dakota each October for opening day of pheasant season. He also enjoyed deer, quail, and dove hunting.

Leo was an active member of his community and belonged to several organizations, including the Shriners, the Masons, the Civitan Club, and the Rotary Club.

In 1950, Leo married Norma Jane Bruce of Birmingham, Alabama. Together they had four children before divorcing in 1972.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents; his six brothers; and his eldest son, Dr. Arthur Bruce Brewer.

He is survived by his daughter, Barbara Brewer Taylor; his sons, Leo Ira Louie Brewer, Jr. and William David Brewer; six grandchildren; step-grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss his wisdom, humor, strength, and unwavering love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Leo Ira Louie Brewer, Sr. to Samaritan’s Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org) or Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org).