James E. Brandenburg, 73, of Rensselaer, passed away at his home on Monday, May 9, 2016. He was born in Rensselaer on December 21, 1942, son of the late Robert G. and Maybeth (Gilmore) Brandenburg. Jim started his education at Hanging Grove Township School and later graduated from Rensselaer High School with the class of 1960. He was a lifelong area resident.

On February 2, 1963, he married his wife of 33 years, Michele (Malone) Brandenburg. She preceded him in death on March 19, 1996. On September 3, 1999, he married Martha L. (Vinson Daugherty) Brandenburg, and she survives. Jim was a lifelong farmer. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and was on the Board of Osborne Cemetery. He enjoyed watching Big 10 basketball and attending his grandchildren’s school events.

Jim is survived by his wife Martha Brandenburg; children: Craig (Jennifer) Brandenburg, Cheryl (Jeff) Hillan, and Kathy (Chris) Cook; seven grandsons: Isaac, Benjamin, Jacob, Zachary, Travis (Lauryn), Evan, and Matthew; one great-grandson, Cole; one step-daughter, Kate (Dain) Hayworth; two step-grandchildren, Ashley (Joe) and Justin (Olivia); three step-great-granddaughers: Hadley, Emy, and Saige; three sisters: Mary Whallon, Joyce (Dusty) Duzan, and Sandy (Don) Putt; and two brothers, Richard (Patty) Brandenburg and Donald (Becky) Brandenburg.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, Robert and Maybeth Brandenburg; first wife, Michele Brandenburg; son Brian Brandenburg; one brother, Dennis; and one sister, Donna.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 15, 2016 from 12-5 p.m. (CDT) at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, May 15, 2016 at 5 p.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer with Pastor John Hostetter officiating. Interment will be at a later date at Osborne Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Osborne Cemetery or the organization of the donor’s choice. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.