SEARLES–Steven (Steve) “Brute” Donald Farasyn, 68, of Searles died Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Oak Hills Living Center, New Ulm.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in New Ulm with Pastor Kathleen Ulland-Klinkner officiating. Inurnment will follow in the New Ulm City Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-7 p.m. Monday, August 21, 2023, at the Royal Oak Event Center and will continue 10-11 a.m. at the church on Tuesday. Following the graveside service on Tuesday, there will be a luncheon at the Royal Oak Event Center.

Steve is survived by Shirley, his wife for 43 years; bonus daughter, Amy Keech (Steve Netzke); bonus son, Tommy Keech; grandchildren, Troy Anderson, Gavin Keech, Katilyn (Dalton) Johnsen, Ethan Netzke, Tyler Keech, Sophie Netzke, Nolan Netzke, Aiden and Braden Keech; great grandchildren, Zaine Anderson and Greysen Johnsen; brothers, Greg (Carol) Farasyn, Bob (Monica) Farasyn, Tom (Jackie) Farasyn, Mark (Jenny) Farasyn; sisters, Julaine (Jerry) Balbach and Diane (Steve) Berdan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Helen Farasyn; sister, Judy Farasyn; mother-in-law, Bert Marth; brother-in-law, James Marth.

Steven Donald Farasyn was born March 15, 1955, to Donald and Helen (DeSutter) Farasyn in Ghent, Minnesota. He graduated from New Ulm High School in 1973. He began working odd jobs in New Ulm including as a “bouncer” at The Kaiserhoff and bartender at Shorty’s Bar. In 1975, Brute worked for Valley View Electric, Inc. as an Electrical Apprentice. In 1979, he started working with his dad at Don’s DeLaval, serving area farmers. A short time later, he also worked with his brothers, Greg and Bob who contributed their own skills and, also his sister, Julaine, who worked in the office. The business evolved and eventually restructured into Farasyn Construction, Inc. On February 14, 1981, he was united in marriage to Shirley. Steve was not much of a romantic but was tender-hearted. Each year on their wedding anniversary, Steve would send to Shirley a number of red roses representing the past years together and one white rose for the current year. Together, they raised two children. Together, they owned and operated Searles Bar & Grill. At the restaurant over the years, they hosted bike and classic car drive-in events, steak fry night, holiday brunches, catered parties and family events, and provided a fun spot for meeting up with friends. Shirley and others cranked out good food and beverages. Brute often sat at the corner of the bar. He had a way of making all who came in feel welcome. Good conversations and laughs were many.

Steve’s hobbies and interests changed over the years. He was a volunteer fireman with New Ulm Fire Department. He enjoyed riding his Harley, playing golf, participating in a bowling league, and occasional trips to Jackpot to test out his skills at the blackjack tables. In more recent years, he enjoyed time with the kids and grandkids which brought him the greatest joy. His sense of humor was always bringing smiles. If you had a problem, he listened, never rushed the conversation, and typically, had great advice to help resolve any issue. He was known nearly everywhere, and no matter what city, it was not uncommon to hear “Oh, I know Brute Farasyn! Great guy!” There is a common theme echoed by those who knew Brute: generous, kind, witty, great sense of humor, gentle giant, one of a kind, known for his one-liners, and much more.

Brute was an entrepreneur and cultivated lasting business relationships through his natural charismatic personality, genuine interest, sense of humor and ability to B.S. with a wide variety of people. The rapport he had with his customers and his success in selling Chief buildings was second to none. Brute was a big boy most of his life and in character nicknamed himself “The largest general contractor in Southern Minnesota”. Brute dubbed his office chair the “Liar’s Chair” where he may have embellished a thing or two. At the end of the day, Brute’s main goal was to provide 100% satisfaction with his construction projects, even if he had to lose money on the job. It seemed that what was to be a “quick job” often evolved into more time and material. Brute would ask for job assistance from general contractors, Adam and his brother, Tom, when his mobility became an issue. Brute made and kept agreements on a handshake, his reputation, and his word. Word of mouth was his best advertising, and he already had job requests into 2024.

Steve’s health took a hard turn when he was diagnosed with Stage 5 kidney disease in 2019 and began dialysis 3 days a week. However, every Tuesday and Thursday morning, there were a group of guys that could be found in Brute’s office discussing and attempting to solve world problems. Their colorful conversations may have digressed at times, but lots of fun bantering was had by all.

While Brute’s death is a tremendous loss to family, friends, and the New Ulm community, he is finally pain free. The mold was broken with Brute, and the legacy he leaves is something that will be valued and treasured by those who knew him. He will be sadly missed. Watch over us, Brute!

Special thanks to the New Ulm Medical Center Emergency Department and Oak Hills Living Center for the excellent care provided to Steve during his illness. Family requests no flowers. Memorials to Oak Hills Living Center, NUACS, or Kidney Foundation are preferred.

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