Brandes, Fred Jr. 1937-2020

BRANDES, DEGROOT

Posted By: Marjorie Brunsting-Volunteer (email)
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:32

Fred Brandes Jr left this earth bound for heaven early on January 9, 2020, in Fort Collins, Colorado. He was 82 years old. Fred was born in Sioux Center, Iowa, to Johan Frederick and Cornelia (De Groot) Brandes on September 22, 1937. He grew up in Sioux Center and would recount with great enjoyment the mischievous escapades of his youth. He and his brothers spent many hours hunting across the fields of northwest Iowa, and even more hours fishing Midwestern rivers and lakes and swapping tall tales. Fred was also extremely proud to serve his country in the South Dakota Air Guard for several years as a young man.

Fred cherished his wife, his Sharon Rose, from the day he set eyes on her working at the Sioux Center Bowling Alley to the day he drew his last breath. They were married for 59 years and have two children, Gregory Evan Brandes (Lisa) and Glenda Rose Lesondak (Steve). He leaves behind four grandchildren: Devin, Branden, Tessa Lesondak, and Braxton Brandes. Fred's parents and sister Velma proceeded him to heaven. He is survived by his wife; his children and grandchildren; his four brothers Henry (Sue), Howard (Jean), Larry (Lori), and Curt (Karen); and numerous nephews, nieces, other family members; and friends who love him.

Fred became a printer like his father before him, dabbled in bee-keeping, and then switched careers to become a carpenter. Over a dozen houses that he built still stand solid in Sioux Center. When the construction field took a tumble, the family moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where he created a parking lot/asphalt repair company. In the 1980s, Fred and Sharon built their last home at Lincoln Lakes, where they would stay for the next 30-plus years. Fred truly loved his home by the lake and spent many hours outdoors fishing, riding his bike around the neighborhood and finding neighbors to chat with. Fred loved people, often driving into town to the Hy-Vee deli after he retired to sit and chew the fat with whoever else would be sitting at the counter. He loved telling stories and jokes, he loved being with family. And he really loved music and singing along to his gospel quartets. He was cheerful, curious, inventive, and loved a good laugh.

The last few years of his life were made difficult by the cruelties that Alzheimer's disease unleashes. Even through this, he would still sing, make jokes, and help cheer up other residents in his memory care facility. The love and laughter that Fred brought to everyone he knew will never be forgotten. A private family viewing was held on January 10, 2020. His extended family and friends will hold a celebration memorial in the spring, and he will be laid to rest in the Sioux Center Memory Gardens.

What brings comfort to his family in this time of sadness is that Fred loved his Lord. The following are lyrics from one of his favorite gospel songs, The Lighthouse, written by Ronnie Hinson. Fred followed that lighthouse home and is singing bass with the angels.

And I thank God for the Lighthouse
I owe my life to Him
For Jesus is the Lighthouse
And from the rocks of sin
He has shown a light around me
That I could clearly see
If it wasn't for the Lighthouse (tell me)
Where would this ship be

Anyone desiring to contribute to his memory, please send a donation in his name to the Alzheimer's Association.

Source: Vessey Funeral Service online obituary.