Michael Jay Brandel

DANVILLE - Beloved father, husband, son and friend Michael "Mike" Jay Brandel died in his Danville, Illinois home on Nov. 27, 2010, three weeks before his 41st birthday. Mike is survived by his wife, Samantha; his four children, Michael Vincent Brandel-Sanchez, Jacobo Curtis Brandel-Sanchez, Isabel Skylynn Brandel and Ian James Brandel; his step-son, Andrew Shrader; his siblings, Jeremy (Lynette) Brandel, Nicole (Marc) Maas; his parents, Michael Brandel, Jacquelyn (Kevin) Eastman; his paternal grandparents, James and Isabel Brandel; his maternal grandmother, Patricia Wagoner; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Mike was preceded in death by his paternal uncle Richard Brandel and maternal grandfather, Quinton "Sam" Wagoner. Mike was born in Aurora, Illinois on Dec. 17, 1969. He grew up in Michigan and graduated in 1988, salutatorian of his Shepherd High School class. Mike graduated from Lake Land College in May 2007 summa cum laude with a 4.0 where he earned an associate degree in electronic engineering technology. He planned on continuing his education at Indiana State University to become an engineer. As a musician, Mike had a passion for playing guitar and going to see live music. He was an avid performer with a focus on lead guitar, singing and song-writing; he especially loved the music of Jimi Hendrix. One of Mike's greatest joys was to play and sing for a crowd of friends, family, neighbors and anyone who enjoyed rock 'n roll. He also enjoyed all outdoor activities and spent a significant amount of his time fishing, camping and hiking with family and friends; playing at the park with his children was a special favorite of Mike's. He dearly loved his children and family and was proud to be a father. He was also excited by the prospect of becoming a grandfather. Memorial services will be held on April 2 at the WalkWay in Mattoon from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. for those who wish to say goodbye to this wonderful and exceptional man. Please call (217) 246-8520 with questions or to RSVP this catered event.