Sandra M. Brandenburg

On Friday, March 3, 2023, Sandra (Sandy) Brandenburg, loving wife and mother of four, passed away at the age of 80.
Sandy was born on April 3, 1942 in Lafayette, Indiana. She was the youngest of four girls born to Harold and Effie Klinker of Lafayette, Indiana. Sandy and her three sisters, Margie, Phyllis and Anita were very close and remained that way throughout their lives.
Sandy met Steve Brandenburg at Indiana State University in 1960 and they married a year later on December 30, 1961. They lived in Terre Haute while Steve finished his teaching degree. Their first daughter Debra was born on Christmas day a year later in Terre Haute. After completing his teaching degree in 1963, Steve was hired as a Science teacher and Head Football Coach at Decatur High School in Decatur Indiana. While teaching and coaching, Steve completed his master's degree and in 1967 the young family moved to Rensselaer.
Sandy, most proudly was a mother. She settled into life in Rensselaer as a homemaker and supporter of Steve in his career as a teacher and coach. In 1970, Sandy and Steve welcomed Marianne, born on January 10th. Marianne was soon joined by Jeff, the first son, born February 10, 1972 and then Dan, born February 16, 1973.
In 1979, Sandy went to work as a teacher's aide at Van Rensselaer Elementary School. Sandy cherished her own children and her motherly instincts made her a favorite of students and teachers alike. Sandy loved cooking, the garden, reading and most importantly her family.
Sandy had a fulfilling life and she was selfless. She lived for her husband, her children, her grandchildren, her sisters and their families. Her house was decorated with picture after picture of her entire family and extended family. The extended family was not just blood relatives, but anyone who she believed needed mothering. She was the mother all her children's friends wanted to be around – she fed them, listened to them and loved them like her own. She was loved deeply and her departure has left a hole in the hearts on anyone who knew her.
Sandy is survived by her husband Steve Brandenburg, her daughter Debra (Edward) Kempker, her daughter Marianne (Mike) Hall, her son Jeff (Steffany) Brandenburg and son Dan (Kelly) Brandenburg. Grandchildren Nick Kempker, Brock Hall, Joe Hall, Isabelle Brandenburg and Bo Brandenburg. Sisters Phyllis Koches and Anita (Bob) Morris.
Sandy's family will be celebrating her life privately, no services will be held.