It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Gaylen Brotherson on May 8, 2026, at the age of 86. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and life-long entrepreneur whose larger-than-life spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Born November 20, 1939, in Odebolt, Iowa, Gaylen graduated with the Wall Lake High School Class of 1957 before proudly serving in the United States Navy. During his service, he served in the Naval Air Service aboard several aircraft carriers and later attended Stetson University in Florida and Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. In Omaha, he met his lifelong partner, Judy Steffensmeier of Dodge Nebraska. They married on October 12, 1968, and were inseparable for 57 years.
Throughout his life, Gaylen pursued his passions with remarkable ambition and determination. His career spanned multiple fields: finance, insurance, real estate, motorsport promotion, and the motorcycle industry. From operating speedways throughout the Midwest to owning motorcycle dealerships and creating multiple successful companies, he built a legacy defined by entrepreneurship, innovation, and hard work. Gaylen loved cars, motorcycles, NASCAR racing, boating, golf, and travel. He was known for his tenacious spirit, and ability to make an impression wherever he went. He lived boldly, worked tirelessly, and loved deeply.
In 1984, Gaylen moved his family from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he and Judy built a beautiful life together, running several businesses. In retirement, Gaylen and Judy moved to Sun Lakes where they enjoyed watching football with friends and attending music shows hosted at Cottonwood.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy (Steffensmeier) Brotherson; his daughters Jennifer Johns (Tim Johns) of Mesa, Arizona, and Gina Halland of Scottsdale, Arizona; and six cherished grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Viola Brotherson of Council Bluffs, Iowa; his sister, Mariel Kendall of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and his brother, Clarke Brotherson of Mesa, Arizona.