Bryan J. DeKay

With profound sadness and immense love, we announce the passing of Bryan J. DeKay, a devoted husband, cherished father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, beloved brother, and loyal friend, who passed away on June 17, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 68. Bryan was born on August 19, 1957, in Martin, South Dakota, to Wendell DeKay and Arliss Emley DeKay, who preceded him in death.

Growing up in a farming and ranching family, he developed a passion for animals and horsemanship, and after a brief time at South Dakota State University, he returned home to raise a family and join the ranching community alongside his father and brother.

In the mid-eighties, Bryan moved his family to San Antonio, TX, where he joined his brother-in-law Paul Rodolph in the carpet cleaning business, and eventually formed his own company which he ran for more than three decades. A man whose life was defined by dedication, resilience, and an unmatched work ethic, he was never one to shy away from hard work.

His passion for animals and service led him to volunteer with many organizations over the years, including the Northeast Youth Soccer Association and the Greater San Antonio German Shepherd Dog Club. He later became more focused on horsemanship organizations such as the National Barrel Horse Association, the Alamo Area Youth Horse Association, and the Bluebonnet Barrel Racing Association. He spent 25 years on the San Antonio Livestock Exposition as a horse show committee volunteer.

He took great pride in maintaining his 40-acre ranch, a place where he found peace and happiness among the land and animals he loved so dearly. His passion for horses was especially evident through his incredible talent as a barrel racer, a pastime that brought him great joy and allowed him to showcase his skill, determination, and deep connection with the animals he treasured. 

Beyond his hardworking nature, he will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality. He was a true jokester who could make anyone laugh and had a remarkable ability to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He genuinely loved people, embraced every moment of life, and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Above all else, his greatest source of pride and happiness was his family. He shared fifty wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Katina DeKay, whose love and companionship were the foundation of his life. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy through his son, Nickolaus DeKay (spouse Christy DeKay); his daughter, Mandy Hale (spouse Jeff Hale); and his cherished grandchildren, Justen Hale, Jessie James Hale, Emma Hale, TJ Bolton, Emily Bolton, Rosalie DeKay, and Sebastian DeKay.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Patricia Harrington, DeAnn Hilmoe, Richard DeKay, and Sarah D’Quaix, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, his laughter, his stories, his love for the ranch, his passion for horses, and the countless memories he created with those he loved will live on forever. His legacy is not measured simply by the years he lived, but by the joy he brought to others and the love he gave so freely.

To reflect Bryan’s love for animals, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wilson County Alliance for Animals, via the Donate Now link found at the top of the page (https://www.wilsoncountyalliance.org), or you can mail a donation to 8806 US Highway 181 North, Floresville, TX 78114.

Following the memorial service, there will be a gathering to share food and fellowship in honor of Bryan at the Mesquite Hall located at 11663 Ford Rd. Adkins, TX 78101.