Michael E. McCann was born on October 26, 1943, in Brookings, South Dakota, to Elizabeth Joyce and William Robert McCann Sr. Aside from his years in school and military service, Brookings was his lifelong home — a community he loved deeply and served faithfully. He passed away at the Brookings Hospital on December 9, 2025 as a result of aggressive cancer. The family is hosting a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church in Brookings, South Dakota. 

For more than 50 years, Michael dedicated himself to the Boy Scouts of America in a wide range of leadership roles. His decades of commitment were recognized through numerous honors, including Eagle Scout and the prestigious Silver Beaver Award, an acknowledgment of his outstanding and impactful service to youth.

Michael graduated from Brookings High School in 1962 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Marietta College in Ohio in 1966. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Navy from 1966 to 1969 as a Supply Corps Officer. He was a Lieutenant in the Navy.

Following his military service, he attended the University of South Dakota School of Law, graduating in 1972. Michael went on to practice general law in Brookings for over 42 years. He joined his father’s law practice as a general practice attorney where he mentored many future attorneys in Brookings, stressing honesty and sincerity to their clients.

On February 2, 1973, Michael married the love of his life, Judy Kay McCann. Together they built a life filled with joy, partnership, and devotion, raising four children and later welcoming grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy.

Michael had a long and meaningful career grounded in service and integrity. He was also a faithful lifetime member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served in several capacities, including active involvement in the Men’s Brotherhood. His life reflected the values of service, humility, and fellowship.

Michael served on the boards of United Retirement Center (ULC), Sioux Falls Children’s Care, and Meadow Green and others.

Michael joined the Masons in 1966, later receiving his 50 year medal, and went on to serve proudly with the Brookings Shrine Club for five decades. He was also an active and longtime member of the American Legion and Optimists , earning a 50-year medal there as well, recognizing his enduring dedication to veterans and his community.

The McCanns spent free time at the Lake Cochran cabin. Family, relatives, and friends joined in the boating, fishing, relaxing peaceful times at the lake.

Michael retired in 2015 from law practice to spend more time at the lake cabin and gardening. When asked what one of his goals in life would be after retirement, according to Michael, it was “to keep Judy happy.” At one time Michael had up to 3 garden plots at what he called the north 40, or community garden and supplied the neighborhood with butternut squash, zucchini, and green beans. He would spend hours during his retirement in his gardens planting, weeding, and occasionally getting a little shut eye in the car.

Michael is survived by his wife, Judy Kay McCann; his children Dalyn, Kathleen, and Michelle; eight grandchildren; and two great -grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers William Jr. (“Mac”) McCann and Vernon (“Chuck”) McCann. He was preceded in death by his son, Mike McCann; his parents; and his brother, James McCann.

Michael E. McCann leaves behind a legacy rooted in service, faith, and love for others. He will be remembered warmly and missed deeply.