Gordon C. Brandes

Gordon C. Brandes passed away peacefully on June 10, 2019, at the age of 93. Gordie was preceded in death by his 1st wife Loni (nee Ronko Kaizumi/Shizuko), and 2nd wife Sharlene (nee Ahrens), sister Esther (Henry) Borchert, nephew William Borchert and cousin Doris Model. And his Air Force buddy for life Jack Verburgt. Lovingly survived by nephew James (Wendy) Borchert, nieces Barbara Borchert and Patricia (the late Todd) Honeyager, great nieces and nephews, as well as great-great nieces and nephews. Gordie left many many friends in Milwaukee, where he lived for the first 59 years of his life, and in Billings, MT where he made a second home until passing.

Gordie proudly served our country in the U.S.Army Air Corp. in both WWII and Korea. He received a Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Medal with 3 clusters, and seven other citations. He met and married Loni while stationed overseas. Gordie began a career with Northwest Airlines as a travel agent. Upon Loni's death in 1985 Northwest offered him a position as the District Sales Manager in Montana where he worked until his retirement.

Gordie loved Montana, especially Yellowstone National Park. Every year he would host NWA associates as well as others on snowmobiling trips through the park. The excursions were memories of a lifetime for many. He enjoyed golf, bowling, baseball, fishing and especially grilling, using his own special sauce.

A big part of Gordie's retired days was his guys coffee club. While members changed throughout the years, they were always a bunch of good buddies. The VFW was also an important part of his later years.

The family would like to extend special praise to Lisa (Randy) Perry for all her love, kindness, patience, and time in Gordie's senior years. Many thanks to Tender Nest and its staff for their compassionate care. Also the family is grateful to Jim Allen, who visited Gordie until the end – and to Jim (Slim) Barker for fulfilling Gordie's request for a final mountain resting place.

At Gordie's request there will be no services in Milwaukee or Billings. Memorials to any Humane Society for his ol' partner Rowdy.

TO THE BEST UNCLE MEESHER in the WORLD ~ CAUV!