Douglas H. Brandt

1946 - 2022

Douglas H. Brandt, 75, of Michiana Shores, Indiana, passed away Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

The family has requested private cremation services. Arrangements are being handled by the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana.

He was born Sept. 20, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Norman and Georgene (Christman) Brandt. On Sept. 19, 1982, in Michigan City, Indiana, he married Sherry Derr, who survives in Michiana Shores, Indiana.

Also surviving are a brother, Donald Brandt of Wheaton, Illinois; and Erik Bernethy, who was like a son to Doug along with Erik's sons, Weston and Eli Bernethy.

Doug managed the former Tuholski Feed Store located on Chicago Street, Michigan City, Indiana, owned by Bortz Farm Store of La Porte, Indiana.

In 1983, Doug and his wife, Sherry, purchased the business, and in 1990, relocated the business to its present location at 309 W. Michigan Blvd., along with changing the name to Brandt's Old Fashion Feed Pet & Wildlife Emporium.

In 1997, Erik Bernethy joined the business as a stock person, and in 2000, became operations manager. Doug, Sherry and Erik have grown their business and client base, and have become a staple in the community, meeting the needs of pets and wildlife for more than 39 years.

In 2012, Doug and Sherry retired and turned the business over to Erik. Erik has followed the company's goal, developed by Doug, which is to "Consistently provide our valued customers with the products and services they want and need, for less money, more courteously and more knowledgeably than anyone else."

Doug was a very hard working and dedicated businessman who always looked out for his employees.

Doug was a U.S. Marine Corp veteran, having served in the Vietnam War. He enjoyed golfing, gardening, his pets; and feeding the birds and wildlife were also a huge part of his life.

Contributions may be made to Michiana Humane Society, 722 Indiana Highway 212, Michigan City, IN, 46360.

To sign a guest book and leave condolences online visit our website at www.otthaverstock.com.