Brandon Thies

Brandon Thies, 41, died unexpectedly at his home in Chicago on Monday, August 12, 2024.
The son of Chris and Carla (Badgerow) Thies, Brandon was born on February 26, 1983, in Elgin, IL. He was baptized, made his First Communion and Confirmation at St John Neumann Catholic Church in St Charles. Brandon attended St Patrick's School for kindergarten and first grade. In second grade he started at Munhall School where he met many lifetime friends. He attended Haines Middle School and St Charles East High School.
He moved to Chicago at 18 when he started college and attended DePaul University where he studied music. He later transferred to Roosevelt University where he also was part of the music program. Brandon decided to help others and also diversify his area of expertise to allow himself more opportunities in the work force. He was accepted to the UIC Psychology Program where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. While working in the psychology field, he worked with clients to evaluate cognitive and emotional difficulties. Brandon helped educate clients and their families on what to expect from treatment and counseled them on emotional symptoms and cognitive deficits.
He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago White Sox and Blackhawks. He considered himself a Chicagoan and never wanted to live anywhere else. Growing up, Brandon played soccer, basketball, roller hockey, and wrestled.
He loved all genres of music but his favorite was jazz. He played with many groups beginning when he was young. He was with Hobo Paste, Mary Hunt duo, trio and band. He also loved playing with the Chicago-based band Daysleeper. He played at many events in the Chicago area. He had many longtime friends that became part of his family circle. Brandon was employed by School of Rock in Oak Park. He taught group and individual lessons, directed programs, and ran summer camps. He was a kind and generous man who encouraged and nurtured so many young people to follow their creative dreams and stay true to themselves. He kept abreast of his students' interests and took the time to listen and discuss pop culture with them. MUSIC WAS HIS LIFE!
Brandon is survived by his parents Chris and Carla Thies, his partner Amelia Dobmeyer, and his loving dog Quinn. Also his aunts, uncles, cousins and many close friends.
He was preceded in death by his dear brother, Matthew, his grandparents, Patricia A. Badgerow, John L. Badgerow, Leroy and Mabel Thies and Uncle William Sage.
Visitation will be Wednesday from 4-8:00 P.M. at Yurs Funeral Home, 405 East Main Street, (corner of Rt. 64 and Rt. 25), St. Charles. Funeral mass will be held 10:30 A.M. Thursday at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 2900 East Main Street, (Rt. 64), St. Charles. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, Geneva.
Memorial donations in Brandon's name may be made to Chicago Canine Rescue or The People's Music School Chicago