Obituary of Ernest "Ernie" Brandt

Ernest "Ernie" Norman Brandt of Camrose passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2013 at the age of 66 years. Ernest Norman Brandt was born in Camrose on November 18, 1946 to Dugald and Evelyn Brandt - their second son and a little brother to Bill. Ernie had a huge passion for hockey at a very young age. Winter time was spent on outdoor rinks - organized or shinny - it didn't matter - it was hockey! The game wasn't restricted to the rink though - there was also the street, and endless hours were spent running, passing and shooting with the neighborhood boys. Christmas was eagerly anticipated as he knew there was always new equipment for him in those packages. The routine never altered year to year - after presents, the boys donned their new duds, and hit the ice. In 1963, Ernie earned a position on the Camrose Maroons hockey club - his boyhood dream come true. For 16 years, he competed with the best, and was so proud to be a member of a team that was considered one of the strongest and most respected in the province. His stories of those times were endless, and the memories still so vivid. His love of sports included fastball also, and he was a member of the Windsor Hotel fastball team - a talented and competitive group of guys that achieved provincial recognition. Tournaments were frequent, and the team balanced fierce play on the diamond and camaraderie off the diamond, often bringing home top honors. He entered the electrical trade a year out of high school. He worked for local contractors during his apprenticeship, then a couple of out-of-town companies after attaining his journeyman ticket. His love of industrial wiring drew him to Edmonton, and he gained employment at the Strathcona Refinery with Titan Electric who had the construction maintenance contract. For over 20 years he commuted; the drive was never an issue for him, as he loved his job so much. His plan was to return to work on a part-time basis, retiring only when it was his decision. Ernie married Sandra Hall on August 14, 1971. On their second anniversary, first son Corey was born. Jayden arrived in 1976, and third son Jerrit joined the family in 1979. Life for the Brandts revolved around hockey and fastball, with Ernie coaching both summer and winter. His goal was simple - introduce his sons to the sports he enjoyed (hoping to see some talent!), and instilling in them a sense of fair play and ethics. As the boys grew up and moved out on their own, Ernie and Sandra had the time to holiday together. Camping was the leisure of choice - it didn't have to be distant, but a golf course nearby was a must. The last few years, they took vacations to Las Vegas and thoroughly enjoyed touring in that part of the country. He became a member of the Camrose Goodtimers hockey club at the ripe age of 34, and savored time spent with the wonderful players and wives, establishing ties that lasted to this day. This club was indeed family oriented, and Ernie and Sandra and the boys have so many fond memories of those years. To say his grandchildren took his heart and ran with it would be a gross understatement. They gave him so much joy - we need not say more. Ernie is survived by his loving wife Sandra of almost 42 years; son Corey, his wife Cathy and their daughter Cailin; son Jayden, his wife Shannon and their children Reagan and Brianna; son Jerrit, his fiancée Sara and their daughter Avery; his brother Bill, his wife Cathy; mother-in-law Jessie Hall; as well as numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents Dugald and Evelyn Brandt; father-in-law Irvin Hall; and brother-in-law Trevor Hall. Ernie left us quietly and with dignity - just as he lived. As the boys and I go on, we will seek his guidance and direction as we always have. A Funeral Service was held 1:00 p.m., Monday, July 22, 2013 from Camrose United Church (4829 50 Street) with Mary Ann Pastuck officiating. Cremation has taken place. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to Kids Sport Alberta, Camrose Chapter (kidsportcamrose@cable-lynx.net).