Roger Brandenburger

Roger Brandenburger, 77 of Ellendale, ND died May 6 at Sanford Health, Aberdeen, SD. He was born September 25, 1940 to Ted and Vivian (Gehring) Brandenburger in Ellendale, ND. Roger was raised and educated in the Ellendale area graduating from Ellendale High School in 1958. After his education, he moved to Wisconsin for telephone line construction. On June 15, 1963, Roger married Pat Lien in Iola, WI. They made their home in several communities throughout Wisconsin and near Chicago. They moved to ND in 1977 returning to the family farm. Roger also worked for Kaiser Ranch for more than 30 years. He claimed to have “retired” three different times. Those that knew Roger knew him best by his quick smile and his ability to make friends wherever he went. He was known for his fishing prowess. He made it his goal to teach as many people how to fish as possible. He enjoyed every minute spent on the lake or river. Roger was an avid hunter. Many memories were made hunting dove, pheasants, deer and the occasional good time. Roger grew up in a time where neighbors got together regularly and he made the most of it. One of Roger’s favorite pastimes was playing cards-especially Pinochle. He spent many hours at the American Legion playing cards. He won some, he lost some - but rest assured he gave everyone a hard time and did his best to come out ahead. Roger’s grandchildren were the light of his life. They could do no wrong in his eyes - and many times he not only encouraged their troublemaking but rewarded it as well. Usually with candy or ice cream. Roger lived life on his terms. His body had way more miles than his years would make you think. He made the most out of every moment- a lesson we could all take from him. He was a member of the Forbes American Legion Post #277 and the Hunting Shack. Survivors include his wife Pat Brandenburger, Ellendale, ND; sons: James Brandenburger, Fargo, ND; Keith (Kerry) Brandenburger and daughter Madison of Aberdeen, SD; three daughters: Suzanne (Douglas) Straus and children, Ryan (Rebekah), Tim, Mike, Jeff, Jennifer, Daniel and Jason of West Fargo, ND, Val (Mark) Wagner and children Ian, Scott, Evan and Eli of Monango, ND, Amy (Garrett) Mittleider and children Kiley, Kaden, Garrett (Samantha), Becca, Wyatt and BreAnna of Frederick, SD; 5 great grandchildren; three sisters: Diane (David) Jones, Randolph, WI, Dana Brandenburger, Sun Prairie, WI, Lori (Rodell) Fuchs, Sun Prairie, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother: Kenny, two sisters: Vicky Jury, Barbara Hofer and one grandson: Seth Larson. The funeral is 10am Thursday, May 10 at Presbyterian United Methodist Church, Ellendale with Pastor Paul Henschen officiating. Visitation is 2-7pm Wednesday with a prayer service at 6pm at Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale. Visitation continues one hour prior to services at the church. Burial is at Ellendale City Cemetery. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel.