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Brett W Gaines was born in Rapid City, South Dakota on December 7, 1959, and died in Phoenix, AZ on
September 10, 2025, following a long illness with Lewy-Body Dementia. Brett attended Stevens High School in Rapid City and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, where he double majored in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. He moved to Arizona in 1983 to work on flight systems for Honeywell-Sperry and later at Intel on computer chip design and development. Brett enjoyed hiking, mountain biking, and the Phoenix Suns and was an avid Sci-Fi fan.
He is survived by his wife, Dominika Gaines; his daughter, Sophie Gaines; and his sister, Holly Yonamine. Memorial donations may be made to Dementiacampus.org/donate (in Memorium – Brett Gaines, Adult Day Club) or alivingtribute.org/plant-a-tree-az.
Funeral and Cremation costs can be very confusing. Oftentimes other funeral & cremation providers quote a low price, but they do not give you the complete costs. Integrity and honesty insures a positive…
Our staff is courteous and understanding. Our services are handled with dignity and respect. If you are not completely satisfied with any of our services we will reduce or eliminate the charge. We are the only funeral home in the…
KeriLyn Bollmann says
I had the privilege of caring for Brett in the latter part of his illness. I’ll never forget Brett’s smirks and sideways glances when I would tell him things he didn’t want to do, like not eat fast food. It was like seeing a glimpse of his brilliant mind shine through. I am humbled by his family’s fortitude and wish you all peace. And that you can deeply feel his presence in the quiet moments. Love, KeriLyn
Mark Simms says
So sorry for your loss Dominika and Sophie.
I remember he was such a kind man . He single handedly built the Villa
Montessori Haunted Houses back in the day when Sophie and our Kids attended .
The man could rollerskate like a champ too. I went hiking with Brett and Sophie and our son Sterling on Squaw Peak.
Dominka and Sophie, again if you need us for anything at all.
Well do not hesitate to call.
Mark Simms and Angela, Sterling, Chloe, Riley , and Brody.
Dave Bsharah says
I’ll miss you old friend. Cheers to you bud! See you on the other side.
Jim Eggensperger says
He was fun and smart and loving. He brought energy and light wherever he was. I miss him.
Cousin Jim Eggensperger
Nicole Sutton says
Dominika, my heart is with you and your daughter. Brett was so lucky to have such an amazing wife, so deeply devoted to making his days full of love and care. May Brett find peace on his journey into heaven, and may you find comfort and peace in your heart, knowing he has moved on to his next chapter with grace and love.
Kat says
Dear Brett-
Thank you for sharing your wisdom, kindness and humor. Every time I use my tuning forks…I remember what you taught me. Love to you…and condolences to your beautiful family.
Lee Weaver says
I am sad to hear of Brett’s passing. I hadn’t seen him since high school. I remember a lot of times in high school hanging out with my brother Lance, Wayne, Dave and Brett. I pray for peace for the family and surviving members.