Rick Stoebner

Rick Stoebner, aged 70 of Brookings, SD passed away January 3, 2026 at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD. 

He was born in 1955 to Ray & Erna (Bertsch) Stoebner in Yankton, South Dakota. He was raised on a farm in rural Tyndall, South Dakota and graduated from Tyndall High School.He was united in marriage to Jean Maag on May 8, 1976.Rick & Jean owned and operated Wood’n Things; which was known for its cutting edge original hand crafted wooden toys. Rick was the mastermind behind the wooden creations, and was a forerunner in the wooden toy industry. He’s most well known for his wooden semis where a name was placed on the trailer. Rick spent 40 years traveling all over the upper Midwest attending craft fairs and Arts in the Park to sell his wooden creations. Almost every weekend he was in a new place showcasing his art. Rick was employed by the Brookings School District for 25 years. He spent his time driving a school bus, and working on the ground keeping crew. 

Rick loved the Kansas City Chiefs, coached T-ball, and was especially proud of his garden every year. Rick attended First Lutheran Church in Brookings. 

Rick leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Jean. Numerous relatives, and special friends Rick & Trudi Mofle and their children Jamie, Justin & Jordan.He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray & Erna Stoebner. In-laws Arnold & Vera Maag, and several family members.As per Rick’s request, there is no public memorial. Condolences can be sent to Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 901 S Minnesota Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104