Melody Brooke Van Vuuren

Melody "Brooke" Van Vuuren, 47, Aberdeen, SD, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at her home.

No formal services will be held at this time. There will be a celebration of life service held at a later date.

Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary and Crematory, 414 5th Avenue NW, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.schriversmemorial.com.

Melody Louthan, affectionately known by friends and family as Brooke, was born on December 19, 1977, in Okeechobee, Florida, to John and Sharlene Louthan. She grew up in Okeechobee and attended local schools. After graduating high school, Brooke attended the University of Florida in Gainsville, FL, where she graduated with her Master’s Degree in Education.

Brooke dedicated over two decades of her life to teaching young minds in the Okeechobee area, where she was known for her unwavering passion, kindness, and commitment to her students. Her love for children and teaching was evident in the warmth and care she brought to the classroom every day. Brooke’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched through her devotion to education.

On July 7, 2017, Brooke was united in marriage to her love, Peter Van Vuuren in Okeechobee, FL. Their journey eventually brought them to Aberdeen, SD, where they have resided together since 2020.

In 2010, Brooke was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition that would forever change the course of her life. Despite the challenges of the disease, she faced her diagnosis with remarkable strength, courage, and determination. Brooke fought valiantly, never allowing her diagnosis to define her or diminish her spirit. After a courageous 15-year battle with MS, Brooke ultimately succumbed to the disease. Her passing marks the end of a long and painful journey, but the legacy of her unwavering courage, boundless love, and deep commitment to her family, students, and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Brooke is survived by her husband, Peter; son, Jace Brown; daughter, Jenna Brown; mother, Sharlene Avant; brother, Seth Louthan; and two sisters, Shannon Davis and Amy Proudfoot.

Brooke was preceded in death by her father, John Louthan.