Austin Brown

Austin Ryan Brown was born on March 2, 2005 in Farmers Branch, Texas. At just a few months old, he was placed through foster care into the hearts and home of Adam and Julie (Wynia) Brown. Fostered in deep love from the very beginning, he was officially adopted into their forever family at age two. Their love for him was unconditional, and he was cherished not only by his parents but also by a large extended family. In 2009, the Brown family moved from Lewisville, Texas to the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area. He attended Brandon Valley Schools in Brandon, South Dakota, where he participated in basketball, baseball, and the school band, playing tenor sax. Every year he looked forward to making the special trip to the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska with his dad, creating memories they both treasured. At the age of 13, he experienced one of the most meaningful moments of his life when he traveled with his parents and grandparents to China to adopt his younger sister, Marielle. He was incredibly proud and excited to become a big brother and was very protective of her. Life led Austin to several places over the years. He spent time living between Minnesota and South Dakota, until ultimately returned to Luverne, Minnesota, where he felt the most at peace. After a year and half battle with a rare childhood cancer, Austin passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026 at the Sanford Luverne Hospice Cottage surrounded by his family at 21 years old.

His summers were filled with adventure, often spent at the lake wakeboarding, tubing, fishing, kayaking and simply enjoying life with family and friends. He also had a creative side and enjoyed writing lyrics and beats for songs. Later in life, he developed a love for classic cars and anything fast, always appreciating the thrill and craftsmanship they represented. Faith was an important part of his journey. As a young child, he was dedicated at RockPointe Church in Flower Mound, Texas. Following the family’s move north, he became active in youth activities at Community Reformed Church. At the age of 17, he publicly professed his faith and was baptized by his youth pastor in Parkston, South Dakota, an important milestone in his spiritual life.

Those who knew him will remember much more than his accomplishments. He possessed a magnetic personality and never met a stranger. His smile was contagious, and he had an incredible ability to make everyone feel like an instant friend. Full of energy and constantly on the go, he loved making memories with the people around him.

Perhaps one of the greatest reflections of his heart was the simple habit he practiced through his journey with terminal cancer—he often ended a conversation saying, “I love you.” or requesting prayer. Those words and prayers with him became a lasting gift to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Austin is lovingly remembered by his parents, Adam and Julie Brown of Cloquet, Minnesota; sister, Marielle Brown of Cloquet; grandparents, Merlin and Deb Wynia of Luverne; great-grandmother, Darlene VanRoekel and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his infant brother, Ethan Brown; grandparents, Wendell and Janet Brown; great-grandparents, Melvin and Arlene Wynia and great-grandfather, Gerald VanRoekel. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Atlas of Rock County and the Sanford Hospice Foundation of Luverne.