Chad Brookhart, 56, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in Des Moines. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Chad was a gifted handyman whose creativity knew few limits. He had an extraordinary ability to see possibilities where others saw obstacles, earning him the affectionate description of being a true "redneck mechanic." One of his favorite creations was attaching a lawn mower engine to an electric bike—an invention that reflected both his ingenuity and his fearless approach to solving problems.

Working with his hands was one of Chad's greatest talents. His patience and attention to detail allowed him to create stunning matchstick replicas of a stagecoach, train, Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and sailboat among many others. Every project reflected his remarkable craftsmanship and perfectionist nature.

A lifelong learner with an exceptional mind, Chad enjoyed reading encyclopedias simply for the joy of gaining knowledge. His curiosity about the world was endless, and he was known by those closest to him as an extremely intelligent man who always thought outside the box. At the time of his passing, he was writing a book titled In the Mind of a Mad Man, a project that embodied his unique perspective and struggles.

Chad will be remembered for his brilliant mind, inventive nature, skilled hands, and the lasting impression he made on everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on through the family and friends who will forever cherish the memories, laughter, and stories he leaves behind.

Chad is survived by his daughter, Kaci (fiancée James Fouse) Bachof; grandchildren, Rusty DeMayo, Reilynn Miller; mother, Terry (Stan) Sherwood; siblings, Jay Brookhart, Brandon “Bo” Brookhart, Shawnae Brookhart; grandmother, Helen Aielo; nieces and nephews, Miranda (Travis) Gatewood, Kaitlyn Brookhart, Jory (Jessica Schrader) Cosper, Andrew (Stephanie Gould) Cosper, Taylor (Austin Murray) Cosper; 15 great-nieces and nephews; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and other family and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, James (Jackie) Brookhart; grandparents, Marge and Edward Hines, James and Lois Brookhart; uncles, Craig and Doug Hines.

Memorial donations may be made to the family in Chad’s memory for a contribution at a later date.