Dean A. Brandon

Dean A. Brandon

Dean A. Brandon passed away at home in the early morning hours of Friday, June 25th, 2021 at the age of 88 with his family at his side. During the two weeks preceding his passing, he enjoyed the comfort and companionship of many, many family members and friends. In the customary euphemism of his pilot group, the Quiet Birdmen, Dean has now "gone west."

Dean, "Dino" or "Walrus", along with his wife Libby, had been a resident of Grand Ledge, MI since 1962. Dean was a veteran, who served in the Michigan Army National Guard for over 40 years. He was a dual rated Master Army Aviator with over 4,000 flight hours. He commanded the now infamous "Black Hats", a gunship platoon stationed in Grand Ledge.

Dean was a businessman who worked as a real estate broker and an entrepreneur. He was a past member of the Grand Ledge Rotary Club, the Jaycees, and Eaton County Republican Party Leadership. He was also a proud member of the "Quiet Birdmen", an organization of nationwide experienced aviators.

Dean was a man with a keen wit and humor. He was always up for a good debate and philosophic discussion. He wore his English/Irish heritage with pride. Dean's interests included golf, history, genealogy, politics, economics, literature and poetry, old movies, jazz, trivia games and crossword puzzles. He was a gifted cartoonist.

Dean was preceded in death in 2018 by his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth MacDonald Brandon. "Libby" Brandon was one of Grand Ledge's most active community members. Dean is survived by four daughters: Julie Brandon Vriesenga (Rick), Kathleen Brandon McDonough (Martin), Melissa Brandon Smith (Russell), and Jennifer Brandon (Kevin Johnston). Dean is also survived by grandchildren Tyler A. Smith (Jill Selke), Eliza Smith Merritt (Mike), Ian B. McDonough, Anda I. Zaborowski, and Mary K. McDonough; and great-grandchildren Oliver Selke Smith and Audrey D. Merritt. Step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren are: Kari Smith (son Devon Smith); Amber Smith Yockey (Josh, children James, George, and Annabelle); and Curtis J. Smith (Anna, children Remington Rhodes and Curtis Jr.)

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde A. Brandon and Florence Palmer Brandon, and two siblings, Dale Brandon (Jan) and Bonnie Brandon Reed (Rod). His two surviving siblings are Keith Brandon (Ethel), and Dan Brandon (Donna, deceased). He is also survived by brother-in-law Gordon A. MacDonald, Jr.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to those who have expressed their love, support, and condolences to Dean and his family.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to GLEAP (Grand Ledge Emergency Assistance Program).

A private graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge, MI. A public open house in celebration of Dean's life will be held at Prestons Bar in Grand Ledge, MI, on Sunday, July 11th, from 2 - 5 pm. All are welcome. Arrangements have been entrusted to Vickers Leslie Funeral Home, 109 N. Church Street/PO Box 503, Leslie, MI 49251 (517) 878-6600.