"Joyce, Deb, Laurie, Bruce, Noel & Families, We are so sorry to hear of Kenny (your dad's) passing. Was he ill? We just found out tonite (Sunday) & we don't get the Winona paper. Just feel so bad about this...we are leaving in am for Arizona to visit Jeanneen & Paul so will not get to the funeral either. Please know that you all will be in our thoughts & prayers. Again so sorry we can't be there to see everyone. God Bless Love Glenn & Roxanne"
In loving memory of
Kenneth Brandt
February 9, 2016
Kenneth Karl Brandt, 86 of Goodview died Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at his home.
Ken was born April 19, 1929 in Wyattville to Conrad and Viola (Prange) Brandt. He graduated from Lewiston High School in 1947. Ken married the love of his life, Joyce Yahnke on May 15, 1953. He served his country honorably in the United States Army from January 1955-December 1956 and the Army Reserves until 1963. Ken and Joyce then made their home in Goodview, raising four children. His first job after his discharge was at McDonald's, right after it first opened. He then began his 30-year career at Northern States Power where he worked until his retirement. Following retirement, Ken then began working at EMD/Benchmark where he stayed for 10 years.
Ken was a very active member of the American Legion Post 9; serving as Commander, a member of the Executive Board, member of the 40/8, member of the Burial Detail and worked Bingo. He was an active member of Goodview Trinity Lutheran Church where he ushered and served on the church council. Ken also served on the Goodview Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years. He enjoyed camping at the "Island" with his family and many friends. Every night Joyce would say "It's 5 o'clock somewhere, Kenny." He loved watching and supporting all the Minnesota sports teams.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce; two daughters, Deborah (Thomas) Richie and Laurie VanderEspt; two sons, Bruce (Chris) Brandt and Noel Brandt; grandchildren, Melanie, Zachary, Brandon Richie; Jeff (Sarah) and Scott VanderEspt; Joshua and Alyssa (Rob Evans) Brandt; great-grandchildren, Miles, James, Luke & Sophia Lease, Alex Evans and Blakely VanderEspt; and one great-great grandchild, Caroline Lease.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, one great-grandchild, Gabriel Lease; a son-in-law, Dwayne VanderEspt; and one uncle, Gilbert (Virginia) Prange.
Funeral Service will be 11 a.m., Monday, February 15, 2016 at Goodview Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Ben Sadler officiating. Full Military Honors will be performed by the American Legion Leon J Wetzel Post #9. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m., Sunday at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview and one hour prior to the service at church. Burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Tributes
"May the peace that comes from the memories of loved shared comfort you now and in the days ahead. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
"So long Kenny, we will meet later on the honor guard with our lord in command, your retired legion burial detail captain, Dennis Luedtke."
"Joyce and Family, You are in my thoughts and prayers. Kenny was my "Bingo Boyfriend" for many years, a very special man to me, he made me look forward to that first Wednesday of the month, he always had a smile and the kindest of heart. He truly dedicated to serving his country and continued giving at the Veteran's center, with Joyce by his side. My heart is truly saddened at the passing of Kenny but knowing that he gave me the time to spend with him is priceless. Kenny, may you be in the comfort of God, for we will all be together again. Cherish the memories of Kenny, as I will and the laughter he brought to all. I love you and miss you, Kenny...... Tammy Seebold"
"Bruce and Chris: So sorry for your loss. Pat and Lori Gensmer"
"Dear Joyce and family, I'm so sorry for your lose, Kenny was such a Special guy, he will be truly missed by a lot of people, he always had a smile on his face. He did a lot for the Legion, what an awesome member he was. Prayers and hugs Joyce and family. Rest in peace my dear friend Kenny, Love you !!
Diane & Michael Cada"