Brandon Eugene Bartels

Brandon Bartels
Aug. 19, 1984 - May 22, 2024
Brandon Eugene Bartels, 39, of Valley Mills, passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2024, due to complications from cancer after an unwavering and heroic battle.
Brandon was born the eldest of three children to Weldon and Debra Bartels on August 19, 1984. His younger brothers, Baron and Brett, always looked up to Brandon as a role model and followed in his footsteps in becoming great family men who will go to any length to care for their loved ones and those around them.
Brandon attended Valley Mills schools from kindergarten until 12th grade when he graduated in 2003. Throughout his childhood years, he was active in many organizations and sports where he led by example with his achievements and unmatched work ethic. Following high school, Brandon attended and graduated from McMurry University where he once again excelled in his courses and as a team member of the McMurry football program. After falling hopelessly in love New Year's Eve night in 2002, Brandon eventually married the love of his life on July 1, 2006. Brandon and Lori went on to grow their love through their four children: Braxton, Lane, Ella, and Jake. Brandon prided himself on being the most devoted and loving husband and father. There was nothing he would not do or endure for the sake of his family.
Aside from being called Dad, Brandon thrived when being called Coach. He was a mentor on and off the field to so many players and their families. Throughout every season, in any weather, he passed on the meaning of hard work to those who were willing to try. He was forever optimistic, always the encourager, held high expectations without insult, and brought joy to any game he was a part of. He has left a legacy and lifelong memories in the minds and hearts of his athletes.
When not on the field, Brandon was in the fields attending to his cattle with his brothers and father. He enjoyed ranching and being outdoors and was never one to sit at home being idle. When it came to work as a landman, he was not only a leader, but also a friend. His colleagues looked to him for guidance and knew he was the one to call whenever in need. Throughout his cancer journey and multiple hospital visits, that unmatched work ethic reared its head again as he often worked through treatments and from his hospital bed.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Debra Bartels; mother-in-law, Veronica Harness; maternal grandparents Tommy and Janice Golden; and paternal grandparents Herbert and Bertina Bartels.
Brandon is survived by his wife, Lori of 17 years; children Braxton, Lane, Ella, and Jake Bartels; father Weldon Bartels; brothers Baron and wife Jordan Bartels, and Brett Bartels; nephew Beckett Bartels, all of Valley Mills; father-in-law John Harness and brother-in-law Jeremy Harness, both of Waco; and numerous family members, friends, and ball players who all cherished and adored him.
The family wishes to express their gratitude and appreciation for the entire medical staff of the Sammons Cancer Center and Pickens Cancer Hospital for the exceptional and loving care that Brandon received throughout the ups and downs of his illness.
Visitation with the family will occur Sunday evening from 4-6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Valley Mills. Celebration of Life services will be held 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, at First Baptist Church of Valley Mills. Interment will immediately follow at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Foss Funeral Home & Cremation Center.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his to the Valley Mills Youth Baseball Association, PO Box 234, Valley Mills, TX 76689.
Pallbearers: Jason Gonzales, Jeremy Harness, Adam Ledlow, Johnny Snyder, Jeremy Vansa, and Miles Whitney. Brandon Bartels Memorial Video
Please join us in remembering Brandon by signing our guestbook at
fossfuneralhome.com