Linda L. Brandenburg

1948 - 2025

Linda Lea Brandenburg, age 77, of Waconia went home to Heaven with a smile on her face on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church (601 E 2nd St) in Waconia with Rev. Bryan Stecker as officiant. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Interment in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls will be at a later date.

Linda was born on September 25, 1948 in Watertown, MN to Gilbert and Myrtle (Felt) Schilling. She was baptized at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Excelsior and confirmed at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Watertown. Linda was united in marriage with Rodney Brandenburg on June 29, 1968. Their marriage was blessed with a son, Ryan, on August 28, 1980. Linda said Ryan was a blessing especially after many years of doctors visits. She often said Ryan was the accomplishment of her life. The family built their home on the shore of Lake Waconia and enjoyed lake life.

Linda grew up on the family dairy farm where she and her sister, Shirley, had many memorable and fun adventures. Upon high school graduation, at age 17, Linda began working at General Mills where she stayed for 45 years. She began her career in the Betty Crocker Kitchens, working in several other areas before landing in telecommunications. In her positions, Linda always shined managing the financial side of departments. She retired from General Mills in 2011.

In 1999, Linda and Rodney bought the family cabin on Lake Nelson near Pequot Lakes to ensure it stayed in the family. Some of her favorite memories as a child were fishing with her dad, and she wanted to ensure he could come fishing at the cabin anytime. Linda's dad always said "She won't catch the most fish, but watch out, she is going to get the biggest one!"

Linda always had a twinkle in her eyes, was full of fun and often described as vibrant and gregarious. Spending time with friends at the cabin became one of her favorite pastimes, especially with friends Sharon and John, Kathy and Tom, and Gail and Steve who would sometimes also bring their grandchildren. Her beloved "card ladies" would also come and stay, as well as Shirley and her family. Linda was always delighted to have visitors and her whole being lit up whenever a child came to play!

Linda was also always excited to do some traveling such as to Hawaii and Florida with Gail and Steve; numerous trips to see concerts, Branson, the Black Hills; Duluth with friends Judy Clasen, Sharon Sievers, June Hilgers and others; train and road trips with Gail; the family trip to Sweden to explore family history; and traveling to the west and east over the years to see family. Linda's love for her family, friends and especially children was obvious to everyone.

Linda really enjoyed playing games and cards of all kinds. She loved to play as often as she could with her "card ladies."

Linda joined Trinity Lutheran Church in 1970 and was a faithful member ever since. Recently, she assisted the Funeral Committee. She always practiced her faith joyfully during her life, helping others in need, especially Mary Ann, her friend she met at Bingo up north.

The family would like to say thank you to all of Linda's friends and neighbors who cared for her and helped her so much over the years; especially that very last difficult month. She said you warmed her heart.

Linda was preceded in death by her husband Rodney; parents Gilbert and Myrtle Schilling; sisters-in-law Beverly Babatz, Sharon Meiseler; father-in-law and mother-in-law Vernon and Ruth Brandenburg.

Linda is survived by her loving family: son Ryan Brandenburg; sister Shirley (Dale) Good of Brunswick, MD; nieces and nephews Charlie and Jenna Good of Reno, NV, Chelsea and Chris Herman of Middletown, MD, Mackenzie and Matt Miessau of Washington D.C., Roxanne and David Wagener of Waconia, Becky and Matt Westlund of Waconia, Brian and Toni Babatz of Jordan, Todd Babatz of Chaska; great-nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials preferred to Trinity Lutheran Church in Waconia.

Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia, 952-442-2121, www.johnsonfh.com.