Brynn Renee Nelson, a vibrant and beloved 17-year-old from Rapid City, South Dakota, tragically passed away in a car accident, leaving behind a community deeply touched by her bright spirit and joyful presence.
Born on May 9, 2007, to Brendan and Jacki Nelson, Brynn was a gift of light and love, arriving as the best birthday present her father ever received. From the moment she entered the world, she captured hearts with her big, bright blue eyes and infectious personality.
Brynn was known for being the life of the party, with an unparalleled ability to make everyone around her smile. Although she didn’t talk much at first, letting her older brother Kadin speak for her, once she found her voice, it was unstoppable. She became a source of joy, laughter, and warmth to her family and friends, embracing every moment with a zest for life that few could match.
An exceptionally talented individual, Brynn excelled in everything she put her mind to. She quickly became the family’s baker and cake decorator, wowing everyone with her creative talents.
Beyond her culinary skills, Brynn enjoyed a variety of sports and activities, from gymnastics, softball, and basketball to volleyball, archery, and track and field. Her love of archery, in particular, allowed her to bond with her father, brother, and coach Larry, competing at both the state and national levels.
In high school, Brynn found her niche in softball and track, particularly excelling in the javelin throw. Her skill and dedication led her to win the prestigious Howard Wood Relays as a freshman and claim victories at the South Dakota State Track Meet in both her sophomore and junior years. She currently holds the state record for the javelin throw, a testament to her talent and hard work.
Brynn was a beacon of light, not only shining herself but also illuminating the lives of those around her. She loved deeply and fiercely, and her friends and family were the fortunate recipients of her boundless love and care. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.
Survived and Preceded by
She is survived by her loving parents, Brendan and Jacki; her brother, Kadin; her cherished dog, Penny; her grandparents, Dean and Karen Nelson, Becky McQuistion, and Doug and Wanda Pol; great-grandmother, Reta Nelson; aunts and uncles, Brittany (Nelson) and Mike Kieffer, Lynsey (Pol) and Joe Thornell, and Kelli (Pol) and Brian Vanderwerff; and a host of beloved cousins, extended family members, and younger cousins who looked up to her as a big sister figure. Brynn’s love for her family was evident in every moment they spent together, whether baking, hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying each other’s company.
She is preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Gary Nelson, Jerome and Shirley Sether, Ray and Helen McQuistion, Howard and Grace Pol; and her cousin, Hudson Vanderwerff.
Burial and Funeral Arrangements
A Celebration of Brynn’s Life will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid City. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Mountain View Cemetery. In honor of Brynn’s colorful and vibrant personality, attendees are encouraged to wear bright, cheerful clothing.
Brynn’s light was brilliant, and although her time with us was far too short, the impact she made will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Brynn Renee Nelson.