Funeral services for Charles William "C.W." Brandes, 86, of Sealy were held Feb. 1 at the First United Methodist Church in Sealy, with Rev. John Tyler officiating. Interment was at the Sealy Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Mason, Stacy, Darren, Jeff, Nicolas and Stephen Brandes, Tyler Mazac, Benn Copeland and Trey Copeland. Honorary pallbearers were Jim O'Neil, Gary Ray, Max Chesshir and Charles Brandes.
Charles William Brandes, also fondly known as "C.W.", was born at the home of his parents in Burleigh. He was the eldest child of four children born to Fritz and Hermina Brandes. His brother was Owen Otto and sisters were Leah Virginia and Vivian Janette. He grew up in the Burleigh farming community and attended elementary school at Roach Prairie School, followed by graduation from Bellville High School.
Following graduation, Charles worked as a line foreman with the LCRA. He then managed a service station in Bellville, at which time he married Lillie Schubert from Sealy.
They resided in Bellville and were blessed with the birth of their first son, Charles Waddel. They moved with their infant son to the Hacienda community into a small, one bedroom house on the property that eventually became their permanent home on Grubbs Road in Sealy. They resided there for the remainder of their lives. During the following years, they had a daughter, Carol Joy, and two more sons, Jack William and Bruce Jerome.
Charles farmed cotton, corn and milo, baled hay, ran a dairy and helped his father-in-law, Max Schubert, at his cotton gin. He was interested in improving the profession of milk producers and served as secretary of the American Milk Producers Incorporated. He raised registered Guernsey dairy cows and showed these cattle at various dairy days and county fairs across Texas. He also won Grand Champion Heifer at the Houston Livestock Show.
Later, after retiring from the dairy, he transitioned into ranching. Charles worked extremely hard to provide for his family and loved the land and his surrounding community. He was deeply devoted to his church, the First United Methodist Church in Sealy, where he served on the Lord's Acre/Hour Program, Methodist Men's Club and as a church board member.
In addition to his family and church, he was one of the founding fathers of the Austin County Fair Association, holding the office of fair president for many years and ending his tenure as fair manager. He was tremendously proud of the fair, and its growth, development and increased opportunities for the youth of the county. Relevant to the fair, he supported the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, serving as chairman of the Austin County Go Texan Committee and chairman of the Hay Hauling Contest.
During these years, Charles and his wife, Lillie, were members of the Austin County Square Dance Team on Horseback and the Austin County Emergency Unit. Community involvement did not end with his church, fair and rodeo.
He was highly involved with his three sons in the Boy Scouts of America, during which time he achieved the Silver Beaver Award, served on the District Committee of the David Crockett District and was scout master to many in Sealy Troup 557. The boys remember many trips to El Rancho Cima, Camp Strake and his own campsite on the Mill Creek for scout camp-outs and jubilees.
In addition to his involvement in scouts, he served on the Austin County School Board. This board governed the county rural schools prior to their incorporation into the Sealy and Bellville School Districts. He was a member of the parent teacher association, served on the Millcreek Drainage District and was involved with the Austin County Gun Club, Order of the Sons of Hermann and Woodmen of the World.
Throughout the years, Charles was loved by many friends and family, spent many hours with them hunting, fishing, barbecuing, and playing cards and dominos. He was a loving husband, devoted father and faithful friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fritz Charles and Hermina Brandes; brother, Owen Otto Brandes; and sister, Leah Virginia Brandes McCamy.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lillie; sister, Vivian Janette "Biddy" McIntyre and husband Daniel; sister-in-law, Kathryn Brandes; sons, Charles Waddel Brandes and wife Barbara, Jack William Brandes and wife Sharon and Bruce Jerome Brandes and wife Jacquelyn; daughter, Carol Joy Ray and husband Gary; grandchildren, Tracey Ann Brandes O'Neil and husband Jim, Charles Mason Brandes and fianc/ Angela Leschper, Stacy Troy Brandes and wife Kaarin, Darren Lee Brandes, Jeffrey William Brandes and wife Jennifer, Jody Meredith Lezak Chesshir and husband Max, Benn David Copeland and wife Kenia, Charles "Trey" Copeland III and wife Amy, Nicolas Rion Brandes and Stephen Travis Brandes; great-grandchildren, Ashley Brandes Aguilar and husband David, Charles Mason Brandes Jr., Tyler Mazac, Leah Brandes, Sydney Brandes, Joshua Brandes, Claire Copeland, Grace Copeland, Ethan Copeland, Jarrett Brandes, Grayson Brandes, Lauren Chesshir, Jenna O'Neil, Brennan Brandes, Brianna Brandes and Baylee Brandes; and great-great grandchildren, Brooklyn and Lillianna Aguilar.
Charles William Brandes was dearly loved and looked up to by his grandchildren, who called him, "Poppa". There are many stories they have shared over and over about their "Poppa" that will keep them laughing for hours.
He gave them one of the best gifts in life - his time. They all helped him on his farm at one time or another. He had many funny sayings, such as "root hog or die" during meals and told stories of riding his horse, Rosenwassa, to school while getting involved in many escapades.
They remember one special saying he taught them: "A man is as good as his word." He survived many animal attacks and farm injuries, turning each incident into a funny story for his grandchildren. He was their John Wayne and Rambo all rolled into one. He will remain a vivid memory in the lives of all his family members forever.
Funeral services were held under the direction of Knesek Brothers Funeral Chapel, 768 Fourth St., Sealy, Texas 77474, (979) 885-3535.
THE FAMILY REMEMBERS
By MARY HOGAN, sEALY NEWS Staff Writer
Waddel Brandes still remembers the marble his father, Charles William "C.W." Brandes used to carry in his pocket.
"The golden rule was on the marble - ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,'" Waddel Brandes said.
And throughout his life, C.W. did just that, dedicating his time to serving his community and family.
C.W. Brandes, 86, passed away Jan. 28 in Brookshire.
He leaves behind a legacy of building up his community, having served for 40 years with the Austin County Fair Association as one of the founders, among other commitments.
His daughter-in-law, Sharon Brandes, still remembers how C.W. began the tradition of bringing big-name talent to the Austin County Fair.
He had an eye for stars from the very beginning. She looked forward to his return every year from the convention where he would book musical talent.
One year, C.W. came back with the news that a new country artist would perform at the county fair.
"And I can remember saying, ‘I've never heard of him,' and he said, ‘Well, you wait and see he's up and coming and he's going to be big,'" she said.
And C.W. was right. A week before the fair, that new country artist - Garth Brooks - won the Country Music Association's Horizon Award for best new artist.
It was his ability - and willingness - to get things done that made him a leader, according to Waddel Brandes.
"He was the kind of person who would leave an impression," he said. "He was a doer, he would get up and get things done. He never complained.
"He was a good leader," he added. "Whenever he got involved in a group or organization, he generally wound up being the president or secretary."
And he encouraged his family to take an active role in the community, as well.
Sharon Brandes remembers when he asked her to take over the responsibility of coordinating the Austin County Fair Parade. She agreed and spent 19 years working to make the parade a success.
As a Boy Scout volunteer, he also tried to impress those values of supporting one's community on the youth of the county.
For his efforts, he earned the Silver Beaver, which is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout volunteer, according to his son, Bruce Brandes.
"He wanted the best for Austin County," BrucesBrandes said. "He wanted to see everybody succeed. He really took to heart the youth of Austin County."
Along with working to make the community better, C.W. also spent time working to make his family strong.
"He was always doing something for somebody," Bruce Brandes said. "He valued his friendship. He valued his family. He was a terrifically honest person and was always honest in his dealings with everybody. That's one thing I got from him was honesty."
And there were other life lessons Bruce picked up from his father along the way, as well.
"Work hard to get what you want. Don't talk bad about people. Give everybody the respect that they deserve - that's an important aspect in life in your dealings with people," he said.
"And be a responsible adult. Just be a good person - that was important to him and that's what he taught us," he added.
Those lessons led Bruce Brandes to join the U.S. Navy. C.W., who was very patriotic, couldn't have been more proud.
"He said, ‘Son, that's the best thing you could have done for yourself,'" Bruce said.
Family pride was important to C.W., who enjoyed family barbecues and get-togethers. His love of being around loved-ones rubbed off on Waddel Brandes, who still enjoys getting together for birthdays and other holidays. The presence of his father will be missed at those events, though.
"He was always somebody that you could discuss things with," Waddel said. "He was like a sounding board. He was somebody to sit down with and talk to about different ideas and opinions and I'll miss that."
Throughout his 86 years, C.W. Brandes lived through a lot: the Depression; the early days of automobiles when he drove a Ford Model T; and riding a horse to go to the Roach Prairie School, a small one-room school in the Burleigh community.
He served on the Austin County School Board, which served as the governing body of all the rural schools in the county, and later saw the consolidation of those small school districts into the present-day school districts of Brazos ISD, Sealy ISD and Bellville ISD.
He saw a man land on the moon, faithfully served as a member of First United Methodist Church of Sealy, married Lillie Schubert of Sealy, and raised a family of three sons and a daughter along with countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
"He was something else," Bruce Brandes said.
Pallbearers were Mason, Stacy, Darren, Jeff, Nicolas and Stephen Brandes, Tyler Mazac, Benn Copeland and Trey Copeland. Honorary pallbearers were Jim O'Neil, Gary Ray, Max Chesshir and Charles Brandes.
Charles William Brandes, also fondly known as "C.W.", was born at the home of his parents in Burleigh. He was the eldest child of four children born to Fritz and Hermina Brandes. His brother was Owen Otto and sisters were Leah Virginia and Vivian Janette. He grew up in the Burleigh farming community and attended elementary school at Roach Prairie School, followed by graduation from Bellville High School.
Following graduation, Charles worked as a line foreman with the LCRA. He then managed a service station in Bellville, at which time he married Lillie Schubert from Sealy.
They resided in Bellville and were blessed with the birth of their first son, Charles Waddel. They moved with their infant son to the Hacienda community into a small, one bedroom house on the property that eventually became their permanent home on Grubbs Road in Sealy. They resided there for the remainder of their lives. During the following years, they had a daughter, Carol Joy, and two more sons, Jack William and Bruce Jerome.
Charles farmed cotton, corn and milo, baled hay, ran a dairy and helped his father-in-law, Max Schubert, at his cotton gin. He was interested in improving the profession of milk producers and served as secretary of the American Milk Producers Incorporated. He raised registered Guernsey dairy cows and showed these cattle at various dairy days and county fairs across Texas. He also won Grand Champion Heifer at the Houston Livestock Show.
Later, after retiring from the dairy, he transitioned into ranching. Charles worked extremely hard to provide for his family and loved the land and his surrounding community. He was deeply devoted to his church, the First United Methodist Church in Sealy, where he served on the Lord's Acre/Hour Program, Methodist Men's Club and as a church board member.
In addition to his family and church, he was one of the founding fathers of the Austin County Fair Association, holding the office of fair president for many years and ending his tenure as fair manager. He was tremendously proud of the fair, and its growth, development and increased opportunities for the youth of the county. Relevant to the fair, he supported the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, serving as chairman of the Austin County Go Texan Committee and chairman of the Hay Hauling Contest.
During these years, Charles and his wife, Lillie, were members of the Austin County Square Dance Team on Horseback and the Austin County Emergency Unit. Community involvement did not end with his church, fair and rodeo.
He was highly involved with his three sons in the Boy Scouts of America, during which time he achieved the Silver Beaver Award, served on the District Committee of the David Crockett District and was scout master to many in Sealy Troup 557. The boys remember many trips to El Rancho Cima, Camp Strake and his own campsite on the Mill Creek for scout camp-outs and jubilees.
In addition to his involvement in scouts, he served on the Austin County School Board. This board governed the county rural schools prior to their incorporation into the Sealy and Bellville School Districts. He was a member of the parent teacher association, served on the Millcreek Drainage District and was involved with the Austin County Gun Club, Order of the Sons of Hermann and Woodmen of the World.
Throughout the years, Charles was loved by many friends and family, spent many hours with them hunting, fishing, barbecuing, and playing cards and dominos. He was a loving husband, devoted father and faithful friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fritz Charles and Hermina Brandes; brother, Owen Otto Brandes; and sister, Leah Virginia Brandes McCamy.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lillie; sister, Vivian Janette "Biddy" McIntyre and husband Daniel; sister-in-law, Kathryn Brandes; sons, Charles Waddel Brandes and wife Barbara, Jack William Brandes and wife Sharon and Bruce Jerome Brandes and wife Jacquelyn; daughter, Carol Joy Ray and husband Gary; grandchildren, Tracey Ann Brandes O'Neil and husband Jim, Charles Mason Brandes and fianc/ Angela Leschper, Stacy Troy Brandes and wife Kaarin, Darren Lee Brandes, Jeffrey William Brandes and wife Jennifer, Jody Meredith Lezak Chesshir and husband Max, Benn David Copeland and wife Kenia, Charles "Trey" Copeland III and wife Amy, Nicolas Rion Brandes and Stephen Travis Brandes; great-grandchildren, Ashley Brandes Aguilar and husband David, Charles Mason Brandes Jr., Tyler Mazac, Leah Brandes, Sydney Brandes, Joshua Brandes, Claire Copeland, Grace Copeland, Ethan Copeland, Jarrett Brandes, Grayson Brandes, Lauren Chesshir, Jenna O'Neil, Brennan Brandes, Brianna Brandes and Baylee Brandes; and great-great grandchildren, Brooklyn and Lillianna Aguilar.
Charles William Brandes was dearly loved and looked up to by his grandchildren, who called him, "Poppa". There are many stories they have shared over and over about their "Poppa" that will keep them laughing for hours.
He gave them one of the best gifts in life - his time. They all helped him on his farm at one time or another. He had many funny sayings, such as "root hog or die" during meals and told stories of riding his horse, Rosenwassa, to school while getting involved in many escapades.
They remember one special saying he taught them: "A man is as good as his word." He survived many animal attacks and farm injuries, turning each incident into a funny story for his grandchildren. He was their John Wayne and Rambo all rolled into one. He will remain a vivid memory in the lives of all his family members forever.
Funeral services were held under the direction of Knesek Brothers Funeral Chapel, 768 Fourth St., Sealy, Texas 77474, (979) 885-3535.
THE FAMILY REMEMBERS
By MARY HOGAN, sEALY NEWS Staff Writer
Waddel Brandes still remembers the marble his father, Charles William "C.W." Brandes used to carry in his pocket.
"The golden rule was on the marble - ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,'" Waddel Brandes said.
And throughout his life, C.W. did just that, dedicating his time to serving his community and family.
C.W. Brandes, 86, passed away Jan. 28 in Brookshire.
He leaves behind a legacy of building up his community, having served for 40 years with the Austin County Fair Association as one of the founders, among other commitments.
His daughter-in-law, Sharon Brandes, still remembers how C.W. began the tradition of bringing big-name talent to the Austin County Fair.
He had an eye for stars from the very beginning. She looked forward to his return every year from the convention where he would book musical talent.
One year, C.W. came back with the news that a new country artist would perform at the county fair.
"And I can remember saying, ‘I've never heard of him,' and he said, ‘Well, you wait and see he's up and coming and he's going to be big,'" she said.
And C.W. was right. A week before the fair, that new country artist - Garth Brooks - won the Country Music Association's Horizon Award for best new artist.
It was his ability - and willingness - to get things done that made him a leader, according to Waddel Brandes.
"He was the kind of person who would leave an impression," he said. "He was a doer, he would get up and get things done. He never complained.
"He was a good leader," he added. "Whenever he got involved in a group or organization, he generally wound up being the president or secretary."
And he encouraged his family to take an active role in the community, as well.
Sharon Brandes remembers when he asked her to take over the responsibility of coordinating the Austin County Fair Parade. She agreed and spent 19 years working to make the parade a success.
As a Boy Scout volunteer, he also tried to impress those values of supporting one's community on the youth of the county.
For his efforts, he earned the Silver Beaver, which is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout volunteer, according to his son, Bruce Brandes.
"He wanted the best for Austin County," BrucesBrandes said. "He wanted to see everybody succeed. He really took to heart the youth of Austin County."
Along with working to make the community better, C.W. also spent time working to make his family strong.
"He was always doing something for somebody," Bruce Brandes said. "He valued his friendship. He valued his family. He was a terrifically honest person and was always honest in his dealings with everybody. That's one thing I got from him was honesty."
And there were other life lessons Bruce picked up from his father along the way, as well.
"Work hard to get what you want. Don't talk bad about people. Give everybody the respect that they deserve - that's an important aspect in life in your dealings with people," he said.
"And be a responsible adult. Just be a good person - that was important to him and that's what he taught us," he added.
Those lessons led Bruce Brandes to join the U.S. Navy. C.W., who was very patriotic, couldn't have been more proud.
"He said, ‘Son, that's the best thing you could have done for yourself,'" Bruce said.
Family pride was important to C.W., who enjoyed family barbecues and get-togethers. His love of being around loved-ones rubbed off on Waddel Brandes, who still enjoys getting together for birthdays and other holidays. The presence of his father will be missed at those events, though.
"He was always somebody that you could discuss things with," Waddel said. "He was like a sounding board. He was somebody to sit down with and talk to about different ideas and opinions and I'll miss that."
Throughout his 86 years, C.W. Brandes lived through a lot: the Depression; the early days of automobiles when he drove a Ford Model T; and riding a horse to go to the Roach Prairie School, a small one-room school in the Burleigh community.
He served on the Austin County School Board, which served as the governing body of all the rural schools in the county, and later saw the consolidation of those small school districts into the present-day school districts of Brazos ISD, Sealy ISD and Bellville ISD.
He saw a man land on the moon, faithfully served as a member of First United Methodist Church of Sealy, married Lillie Schubert of Sealy, and raised a family of three sons and a daughter along with countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
"He was something else," Bruce Brandes said.
Funeral services for Charles William "C.W." Brandes, 86, of Sealy were held Feb. 1 at the First United Methodist Church in Sealy, with Rev. John Tyler officiating. Interment was at the Sealy Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Mason, Stacy, Darren, Jeff, Nicolas and Stephen Brandes, Tyler Mazac, Benn Copeland and Trey Copeland. Honorary pallbearers were Jim O'Neil, Gary Ray, Max Chesshir and Charles Brandes.
Charles William Brandes, also fondly known as "C.W.", was born at the home of his parents in Burleigh. He was the eldest child of four children born to Fritz and Hermina Brandes. His brother was Owen Otto and sisters were Leah Virginia and Vivian Janette. He grew up in the Burleigh farming community and attended elementary school at Roach Prairie School, followed by graduation from Bellville High School.
Following graduation, Charles worked as a line foreman with the LCRA. He then managed a service station in Bellville, at which time he married Lillie Schubert from Sealy.
They resided in Bellville and were blessed with the birth of their first son, Charles Waddel. They moved with their infant son to the Hacienda community into a small, one bedroom house on the property that eventually became their permanent home on Grubbs Road in Sealy. They resided there for the remainder of their lives. During the following years, they had a daughter, Carol Joy, and two more sons, Jack William and Bruce Jerome.
Charles farmed cotton, corn and milo, baled hay, ran a dairy and helped his father-in-law, Max Schubert, at his cotton gin. He was interested in improving the profession of milk producers and served as secretary of the American Milk Producers Incorporated. He raised registered Guernsey dairy cows and showed these cattle at various dairy days and county fairs across Texas. He also won Grand Champion Heifer at the Houston Livestock Show.
Later, after retiring from the dairy, he transitioned into ranching. Charles worked extremely hard to provide for his family and loved the land and his surrounding community. He was deeply devoted to his church, the First United Methodist Church in Sealy, where he served on the Lord's Acre/Hour Program, Methodist Men's Club and as a church board member.
In addition to his family and church, he was one of the founding fathers of the Austin County Fair Association, holding the office of fair president for many years and ending his tenure as fair manager. He was tremendously proud of the fair, and its growth, development and increased opportunities for the youth of the county. Relevant to the fair, he supported the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, serving as chairman of the Austin County Go Texan Committee and chairman of the Hay Hauling Contest.
During these years, Charles and his wife, Lillie, were members of the Austin County Square Dance Team on Horseback and the Austin County Emergency Unit. Community involvement did not end with his church, fair and rodeo.
He was highly involved with his three sons in the Boy Scouts of America, during which time he achieved the Silver Beaver Award, served on the District Committee of the David Crockett District and was scout master to many in Sealy Troup 557. The boys remember many trips to El Rancho Cima, Camp Strake and his own campsite on the Mill Creek for scout camp-outs and jubilees.
In addition to his involvement in scouts, he served on the Austin County School Board. This board governed the county rural schools prior to their incorporation into the Sealy and Bellville School Districts. He was a member of the parent teacher association, served on the Millcreek Drainage District and was involved with the Austin County Gun Club, Order of the Sons of Hermann and Woodmen of the World.
Throughout the years, Charles was loved by many friends and family, spent many hours with them hunting, fishing, barbecuing, and playing cards and dominos. He was a loving husband, devoted father and faithful friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fritz Charles and Hermina Brandes; brother, Owen Otto Brandes; and sister, Leah Virginia Brandes McCamy.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lillie; sister, Vivian Janette "Biddy" McIntyre and husband Daniel; sister-in-law, Kathryn Brandes; sons, Charles Waddel Brandes and wife Barbara, Jack William Brandes and wife Sharon and Bruce Jerome Brandes and wife Jacquelyn; daughter, Carol Joy Ray and husband Gary; grandchildren, Tracey Ann Brandes O'Neil and husband Jim, Charles Mason Brandes and fianc/ Angela Leschper, Stacy Troy Brandes and wife Kaarin, Darren Lee Brandes, Jeffrey William Brandes and wife Jennifer, Jody Meredith Lezak Chesshir and husband Max, Benn David Copeland and wife Kenia, Charles "Trey" Copeland III and wife Amy, Nicolas Rion Brandes and Stephen Travis Brandes; great-grandchildren, Ashley Brandes Aguilar and husband David, Charles Mason Brandes Jr., Tyler Mazac, Leah Brandes, Sydney Brandes, Joshua Brandes, Claire Copeland, Grace Copeland, Ethan Copeland, Jarrett Brandes, Grayson Brandes, Lauren Chesshir, Jenna O'Neil, Brennan Brandes, Brianna Brandes and Baylee Brandes; and great-great grandchildren, Brooklyn and Lillianna Aguilar.
Charles William Brandes was dearly loved and looked up to by his grandchildren, who called him, "Poppa". There are many stories they have shared over and over about their "Poppa" that will keep them laughing for hours.
He gave them one of the best gifts in life - his time. They all helped him on his farm at one time or another. He had many funny sayings, such as "root hog or die" during meals and told stories of riding his horse, Rosenwassa, to school while getting involved in many escapades.
They remember one special saying he taught them: "A man is as good as his word." He survived many animal attacks and farm injuries, turning each incident into a funny story for his grandchildren. He was their John Wayne and Rambo all rolled into one. He will remain a vivid memory in the lives of all his family members forever.
Funeral services were held under the direction of Knesek Brothers Funeral Chapel, 768 Fourth St., Sealy, Texas 77474, (979) 885-3535.
THE FAMILY REMEMBERS
By MARY HOGAN, sEALY NEWS Staff Writer
Waddel Brandes still remembers the marble his father, Charles William "C.W." Brandes used to carry in his pocket.
"The golden rule was on the marble - ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,'" Waddel Brandes said.
And throughout his life, C.W. did just that, dedicating his time to serving his community and family.
C.W. Brandes, 86, passed away Jan. 28 in Brookshire.
He leaves behind a legacy of building up his community, having served for 40 years with the Austin County Fair Association as one of the founders, among other commitments.
His daughter-in-law, Sharon Brandes, still remembers how C.W. began the tradition of bringing big-name talent to the Austin County Fair.
He had an eye for stars from the very beginning. She looked forward to his return every year from the convention where he would book musical talent.
One year, C.W. came back with the news that a new country artist would perform at the county fair.
"And I can remember saying, ‘I've never heard of him,' and he said, ‘Well, you wait and see he's up and coming and he's going to be big,'" she said.
And C.W. was right. A week before the fair, that new country artist - Garth Brooks - won the Country Music Association's Horizon Award for best new artist.
It was his ability - and willingness - to get things done that made him a leader, according to Waddel Brandes.
"He was the kind of person who would leave an impression," he said. "He was a doer, he would get up and get things done. He never complained.
"He was a good leader," he added. "Whenever he got involved in a group or organization, he generally wound up being the president or secretary."
And he encouraged his family to take an active role in the community, as well.
Sharon Brandes remembers when he asked her to take over the responsibility of coordinating the Austin County Fair Parade. She agreed and spent 19 years working to make the parade a success.
As a Boy Scout volunteer, he also tried to impress those values of supporting one's community on the youth of the county.
For his efforts, he earned the Silver Beaver, which is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout volunteer, according to his son, Bruce Brandes.
"He wanted the best for Austin County," BrucesBrandes said. "He wanted to see everybody succeed. He really took to heart the youth of Austin County."
Along with working to make the community better, C.W. also spent time working to make his family strong.
"He was always doing something for somebody," Bruce Brandes said. "He valued his friendship. He valued his family. He was a terrifically honest person and was always honest in his dealings with everybody. That's one thing I got from him was honesty."
And there were other life lessons Bruce picked up from his father along the way, as well.
"Work hard to get what you want. Don't talk bad about people. Give everybody the respect that they deserve - that's an important aspect in life in your dealings with people," he said.
"And be a responsible adult. Just be a good person - that was important to him and that's what he taught us," he added.
Those lessons led Bruce Brandes to join the U.S. Navy. C.W., who was very patriotic, couldn't have been more proud.
"He said, ‘Son, that's the best thing you could have done for yourself,'" Bruce said.
Family pride was important to C.W., who enjoyed family barbecues and get-togethers. His love of being around loved-ones rubbed off on Waddel Brandes, who still enjoys getting together for birthdays and other holidays. The presence of his father will be missed at those events, though.
"He was always somebody that you could discuss things with," Waddel said. "He was like a sounding board. He was somebody to sit down with and talk to about different ideas and opinions and I'll miss that."
Throughout his 86 years, C.W. Brandes lived through a lot: the Depression; the early days of automobiles when he drove a Ford Model T; and riding a horse to go to the Roach Prairie School, a small one-room school in the Burleigh community.
He served on the Austin County School Board, which served as the governing body of all the rural schools in the county, and later saw the consolidation of those small school districts into the present-day school districts of Brazos ISD, Sealy ISD and Bellville ISD.
He saw a man land on the moon, faithfully served as a member of First United Methodist Church of Sealy, married Lillie Schubert of Sealy, and raised a family of three sons and a daughter along with countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
"He was something else," Bruce Brandes said.
Pallbearers were Mason, Stacy, Darren, Jeff, Nicolas and Stephen Brandes, Tyler Mazac, Benn Copeland and Trey Copeland. Honorary pallbearers were Jim O'Neil, Gary Ray, Max Chesshir and Charles Brandes.
Charles William Brandes, also fondly known as "C.W.", was born at the home of his parents in Burleigh. He was the eldest child of four children born to Fritz and Hermina Brandes. His brother was Owen Otto and sisters were Leah Virginia and Vivian Janette. He grew up in the Burleigh farming community and attended elementary school at Roach Prairie School, followed by graduation from Bellville High School.
Following graduation, Charles worked as a line foreman with the LCRA. He then managed a service station in Bellville, at which time he married Lillie Schubert from Sealy.
They resided in Bellville and were blessed with the birth of their first son, Charles Waddel. They moved with their infant son to the Hacienda community into a small, one bedroom house on the property that eventually became their permanent home on Grubbs Road in Sealy. They resided there for the remainder of their lives. During the following years, they had a daughter, Carol Joy, and two more sons, Jack William and Bruce Jerome.
Charles farmed cotton, corn and milo, baled hay, ran a dairy and helped his father-in-law, Max Schubert, at his cotton gin. He was interested in improving the profession of milk producers and served as secretary of the American Milk Producers Incorporated. He raised registered Guernsey dairy cows and showed these cattle at various dairy days and county fairs across Texas. He also won Grand Champion Heifer at the Houston Livestock Show.
Later, after retiring from the dairy, he transitioned into ranching. Charles worked extremely hard to provide for his family and loved the land and his surrounding community. He was deeply devoted to his church, the First United Methodist Church in Sealy, where he served on the Lord's Acre/Hour Program, Methodist Men's Club and as a church board member.
In addition to his family and church, he was one of the founding fathers of the Austin County Fair Association, holding the office of fair president for many years and ending his tenure as fair manager. He was tremendously proud of the fair, and its growth, development and increased opportunities for the youth of the county. Relevant to the fair, he supported the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, serving as chairman of the Austin County Go Texan Committee and chairman of the Hay Hauling Contest.
During these years, Charles and his wife, Lillie, were members of the Austin County Square Dance Team on Horseback and the Austin County Emergency Unit. Community involvement did not end with his church, fair and rodeo.
He was highly involved with his three sons in the Boy Scouts of America, during which time he achieved the Silver Beaver Award, served on the District Committee of the David Crockett District and was scout master to many in Sealy Troup 557. The boys remember many trips to El Rancho Cima, Camp Strake and his own campsite on the Mill Creek for scout camp-outs and jubilees.
In addition to his involvement in scouts, he served on the Austin County School Board. This board governed the county rural schools prior to their incorporation into the Sealy and Bellville School Districts. He was a member of the parent teacher association, served on the Millcreek Drainage District and was involved with the Austin County Gun Club, Order of the Sons of Hermann and Woodmen of the World.
Throughout the years, Charles was loved by many friends and family, spent many hours with them hunting, fishing, barbecuing, and playing cards and dominos. He was a loving husband, devoted father and faithful friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fritz Charles and Hermina Brandes; brother, Owen Otto Brandes; and sister, Leah Virginia Brandes McCamy.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lillie; sister, Vivian Janette "Biddy" McIntyre and husband Daniel; sister-in-law, Kathryn Brandes; sons, Charles Waddel Brandes and wife Barbara, Jack William Brandes and wife Sharon and Bruce Jerome Brandes and wife Jacquelyn; daughter, Carol Joy Ray and husband Gary; grandchildren, Tracey Ann Brandes O'Neil and husband Jim, Charles Mason Brandes and fianc/ Angela Leschper, Stacy Troy Brandes and wife Kaarin, Darren Lee Brandes, Jeffrey William Brandes and wife Jennifer, Jody Meredith Lezak Chesshir and husband Max, Benn David Copeland and wife Kenia, Charles "Trey" Copeland III and wife Amy, Nicolas Rion Brandes and Stephen Travis Brandes; great-grandchildren, Ashley Brandes Aguilar and husband David, Charles Mason Brandes Jr., Tyler Mazac, Leah Brandes, Sydney Brandes, Joshua Brandes, Claire Copeland, Grace Copeland, Ethan Copeland, Jarrett Brandes, Grayson Brandes, Lauren Chesshir, Jenna O'Neil, Brennan Brandes, Brianna Brandes and Baylee Brandes; and great-great grandchildren, Brooklyn and Lillianna Aguilar.
Charles William Brandes was dearly loved and looked up to by his grandchildren, who called him, "Poppa". There are many stories they have shared over and over about their "Poppa" that will keep them laughing for hours.
He gave them one of the best gifts in life - his time. They all helped him on his farm at one time or another. He had many funny sayings, such as "root hog or die" during meals and told stories of riding his horse, Rosenwassa, to school while getting involved in many escapades.
They remember one special saying he taught them: "A man is as good as his word." He survived many animal attacks and farm injuries, turning each incident into a funny story for his grandchildren. He was their John Wayne and Rambo all rolled into one. He will remain a vivid memory in the lives of all his family members forever.
Funeral services were held under the direction of Knesek Brothers Funeral Chapel, 768 Fourth St., Sealy, Texas 77474, (979) 885-3535.
THE FAMILY REMEMBERS
By MARY HOGAN, sEALY NEWS Staff Writer
Waddel Brandes still remembers the marble his father, Charles William "C.W." Brandes used to carry in his pocket.
"The golden rule was on the marble - ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,'" Waddel Brandes said.
And throughout his life, C.W. did just that, dedicating his time to serving his community and family.
C.W. Brandes, 86, passed away Jan. 28 in Brookshire.
He leaves behind a legacy of building up his community, having served for 40 years with the Austin County Fair Association as one of the founders, among other commitments.
His daughter-in-law, Sharon Brandes, still remembers how C.W. began the tradition of bringing big-name talent to the Austin County Fair.
He had an eye for stars from the very beginning. She looked forward to his return every year from the convention where he would book musical talent.
One year, C.W. came back with the news that a new country artist would perform at the county fair.
"And I can remember saying, ‘I've never heard of him,' and he said, ‘Well, you wait and see he's up and coming and he's going to be big,'" she said.
And C.W. was right. A week before the fair, that new country artist - Garth Brooks - won the Country Music Association's Horizon Award for best new artist.
It was his ability - and willingness - to get things done that made him a leader, according to Waddel Brandes.
"He was the kind of person who would leave an impression," he said. "He was a doer, he would get up and get things done. He never complained.
"He was a good leader," he added. "Whenever he got involved in a group or organization, he generally wound up being the president or secretary."
And he encouraged his family to take an active role in the community, as well.
Sharon Brandes remembers when he asked her to take over the responsibility of coordinating the Austin County Fair Parade. She agreed and spent 19 years working to make the parade a success.
As a Boy Scout volunteer, he also tried to impress those values of supporting one's community on the youth of the county.
For his efforts, he earned the Silver Beaver, which is the highest honor bestowed on a Scout volunteer, according to his son, Bruce Brandes.
"He wanted the best for Austin County," BrucesBrandes said. "He wanted to see everybody succeed. He really took to heart the youth of Austin County."
Along with working to make the community better, C.W. also spent time working to make his family strong.
"He was always doing something for somebody," Bruce Brandes said. "He valued his friendship. He valued his family. He was a terrifically honest person and was always honest in his dealings with everybody. That's one thing I got from him was honesty."
And there were other life lessons Bruce picked up from his father along the way, as well.
"Work hard to get what you want. Don't talk bad about people. Give everybody the respect that they deserve - that's an important aspect in life in your dealings with people," he said.
"And be a responsible adult. Just be a good person - that was important to him and that's what he taught us," he added.
Those lessons led Bruce Brandes to join the U.S. Navy. C.W., who was very patriotic, couldn't have been more proud.
"He said, ‘Son, that's the best thing you could have done for yourself,'" Bruce said.
Family pride was important to C.W., who enjoyed family barbecues and get-togethers. His love of being around loved-ones rubbed off on Waddel Brandes, who still enjoys getting together for birthdays and other holidays. The presence of his father will be missed at those events, though.
"He was always somebody that you could discuss things with," Waddel said. "He was like a sounding board. He was somebody to sit down with and talk to about different ideas and opinions and I'll miss that."
Throughout his 86 years, C.W. Brandes lived through a lot: the Depression; the early days of automobiles when he drove a Ford Model T; and riding a horse to go to the Roach Prairie School, a small one-room school in the Burleigh community.
He served on the Austin County School Board, which served as the governing body of all the rural schools in the county, and later saw the consolidation of those small school districts into the present-day school districts of Brazos ISD, Sealy ISD and Bellville ISD.
He saw a man land on the moon, faithfully served as a member of First United Methodist Church of Sealy, married Lillie Schubert of Sealy, and raised a family of three sons and a daughter along with countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
"He was something else," Bruce Brandes said.
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