Some legacies shine quietly yet leave a deep and lasting mark. The life of Father Brian Clare Fawcett is one of those stories. His ministry, joyful presence, and generous heart continue to inspire people many years after his passing.
Father Fawcett died on October 9, 2011, at only 46 years old. He grew up on a ranch near Ree Heights and carried the strength of his South Dakota roots into his priestly life. After graduating from Miller High School, he earned a degree from Northern State University. He taught English and Social Studies and also coached before answering the call to the priesthood.
A Life of Service
Once he entered seminary, Father Fawcett gave himself fully to God’s work. He studied at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary for pre theology and later completed a Master of Divinity at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary. He was ordained in 1997 for the Diocese of Rapid City.
His first assignment was as associate pastor at Blessed Sacrament Church in Rapid City. He served there from June 23, 1997 to July 1, 1998. After that, he was assigned to St. Joseph’s Parish in Faith, with missions at Our Lady of Victory in Plainview and St. Anthony’s in Red Owl. He served the Faith community from 1998 to July 2008. His next assignment was as pastor of St. Mary’s Parish in Lemmon, with missions in Morristown, Bison and Drew. In May of 2010, he was reassigned to St. John the Evangelist in Fort Pierre.
Throughout his ministry, people remember him for his kindness, humor, and willingness to show up wherever he was needed. His steady presence and compassion made a real difference in the lives of many.
How the Fawcett Fund Began
After his passing, the family created the Fawcett Scholarship Fund through the Western South Dakota Catholic Foundation. They wanted a meaningful way to honor his life. The first gift of five thousand dollars came from memorial donations in 2012. A smaller gift was added in 2014, and the fund continued to grow through investment earnings. Learn more about funds that support ministries across western South Dakota.
This winter, on December 5, 2025, Father Brian Fawcett’s sisters, Robin Strain and Susanne Odden made a new contribution of one thousand dollars from their parents’ estate, to honor their memory. They hope that others who knew and loved Fr. Brian Fawcett will join them in supporting this fund.
A New Purpose for Greater Impact
The family recently asked the Foundation to shift the fund’s focus. What began as a scholarship is now a flexible endowment. Discover how endowments and planned gifts can support the Church for generations. Because of this change, the Foundation board can direct the earnings to meet the greatest needs of the diocese. This approach reflects Father Fawcett’s own way of serving. He often stepped in wherever help was needed.
Join Us in Growing the Fawcett Fund
If Father Fawcett touched your life or the life of someone you know, please consider supporting the Fawcett Fund. Your generosity will support the mission of the Church that he loved and served with his whole heart.
To donate, visit this page, Fawcett Fund to designate your gift. You may also give by mailing a check to:
Western South Dakota Catholic Foundation
PO Box 984, Rapid City, SD 57709
Thank you for helping carry forward the legacy of a beloved priest whose witness continues to bless our Catholic community.
