Marlene Jane Brandt

Marlene Jane Brandt of Pine Grove, CA passed away in her home in the company of two of her children on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at the age of 81. She was born in Chicago, IL on June 13, 1934, the first child of the late Laura (Rodgers) and Frank Grosey. Later, three brothers, John, Wally, Frank and a sister, Alice, joined the family. On June 6, 1953 Marlene married John P. Brandt in Joliet, IL and shortly after John completed his Naval tour of duty they journeyed to Southern California to begin their life together. Six beautiful children were born to their union. Later most of Marlene's and John's families followed them out to Southern California and those years with all the parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins living life together and celebrating constantly were one of her fondest memories. Mom devoted herself to her family and to her faith. When asked what she was most proud of Mom always said, "My children!" Those children surviving Marlene are two daughters Susan (Tim) Doerr, and Janine (Dave) Scanson, both of Billings, MT; four sons, John (Penny) Brandt, Jr., of Bozeman, MT, Michael Brandt, of Roseville, CA, Joseph Brandt, of Pioneer, CA, and Jeffrey (Star) Brandt, of Athol, ID; fifteen precious grandchildren, and fifteen delightful great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Marlene was preceded in death by her brother, John Grosey, and husband of over 50 years, John Brandt, in 2008. Mom loved working in the garden and flowers of all kinds. She also enjoyed reading - although never quite found the time to read as much as she would have liked. The mountain of magazines, newspapers, and books are a testament to her optimism that she one day would have the time. After the four older children had left home, Mom began a real estate career that spanned 39 years in which she helped numerous families find the home of their dreams. For the last five years Mom had worked as a Broker/Realtor at Coldwell Banker Sutter Creek Associates with a group of co-workers that she truly loved and thought of as family. Mom was active in Young Ladies Institute (YLI) for decades and, in addition to serving in numerous positions, made countless lifelong friends. In fact, one of Mom's most notable spiritual gifts, and one she delighted in, was Service - whether it was cleaning the church or driving friends to the doctors, she felt blessed. Her other gifting was Giving - giving of her time, talents, and funds. Although Mom suffered with cancer for the last several years she did not spend it complaining - she spent it living. She was able to attend almost every grandchild's wedding. Mom was elated when recently her brother-in-law, Bob, and sister-in-law, Bev, became her neighbors and Bev became like a beloved sister to her. There is so much more I could write about Mom and the people she loved - but you know who you are - because she showed you. We look forward to seeing her with our Blessed Lord and Savior, Jesus, in Heaven one day - until then, Mom, we will hold our memories of you in our hearts with laughter and gladness. Friends are invited to attend a public visitation from 2:00 to 5:30 P.M. on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at Daneri Mortuary, 415 Broadway, Jackson, CA 95642. A vigil service will follow at 7:00 P.M. at St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Martell, CA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Martell, CA, at 4:00 P.M. on Thursday, November 12, 2015 with reception following. Contributions may be made in Marlene's name to STARS, a non-profit organization that gives rides to patients without means of transportation, at P.O. Box 208 Jackson, CA 95642.