Curtis Elmer Brinkmann, age 80 of Hoyleton, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at SIH Memorial Hospital in Carbondale, Illinois.
Curtis was born on November 22, 1945, in Centralia, Illinois, the son of the late Elmer and Lillian (Witte) Brinkmann. He was baptized on December 16, 1945, and confirmed on March 22, 1959, both at St. John’s Lutheran Church in New Minden. Curtis graduated from Nashville High School in 1963 and soon after entered the Army National Guard.
A lifelong dairy and grain farmer, Curtis devoted his life to the land he loved. He treasured the years spent working alongside his father and brother at Black Diamond Trail Farm. Curtis was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in New Minden, where he served in several offices throughout the years.
Curtis is survived by his sister, Phyllis Jack (Robert); his nephews, Rodney Brinkmann, Ryan Brinkmann (Becky), and Jarret Jack (Amy); and his nieces, Stephany Kroeger (John) and Jennifer Dunn (Clint).
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Diana (Lange) Brinkmann; and his brother, Larry Brinkmann.
Visitation will be held at Zieren Funeral Home, 1111 Clinton Street, Carlyle, IL, from 9:30 to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Following visitation, a graveside service with military honors will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in New Minden, Illinois, with Rev. Tim Mueller, officiating.
Expressions of sympathy in memory of Curtis may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church or to Fanconi Cancer Foundation, 360 E. 10th Ave., Suite 201, Eugene, OR 97401 (www.fanconi.org). Donations will be received through Zieren Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
