Beloved husband, dad and papaw, Michael Robert Brandenburg, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 15th, 2024, at his home in Martinsville while surrounded by his family. His life began on Monday, December 31st, 1945, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Michael was the son of Melvin O. and Mabel Irene (McClure) Brandenburg.

He grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Manuel High School with the class of 1964. In 1965, he met the love of his life, Sherry Kaye (Sterling), whom he married in 1966. The two shared fifty-eight years of blissful marriage…a true fairy tale love story.

Michael was drafted on January 10th, 1966, and served his country proudly during the Vietnam War in the United States Air Force. He was a medic at the Spangdahlem Air Force Base in Germany and Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. On May 26th, 1969, Michael was honorably discharged from active duty as a Sergeant and transferred to the reserves until January 9th, 1970.

After his military service, Michael and Sherry returned to Indiana, and eventually settled in Martinsville in 1972, where they made a home for their family and raised their three daughters.

Michael retired from Indiana Gas Company after 30+ years of dedicated employment as a data processor & systems analyst. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking, playing on his computer and phone, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.

Michael was a faithful servant of God and a lifelong member of Olive Branch Christian Church in Indianapolis, where he served in various capacities including elder, treasurer, and President of the Board, among other positions until the church closed. He and Sherry subsequently became members of First Christian Church in Martinsville where they enjoyed and participated in many church activities.

Michael leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, compassion, and integrity. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure and privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his loved ones, including his soulmate, wife, and best friend, Sherry Brandenburg; his three daughters, Rhonda Ann Pruett (Jim), Michelle Dawn Keller (Chip), and Sheila Renee Hymel (Neil); his beloved grandchildren, who brought him immense joy, pride and love, Alec Pruett (Ellen), Emmah Keller (fiancé, Charlie Griswald), Ben Keller, and Sidney Hymel; older sister, Darlene Link; baby brother, Ronald Brandenburg; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

The family will be receiving visitors on Monday, December 23rd, 2024, from 12 Noon – 2:00 PM at Neal & Summers Funeral Home in Martinsville. Rev. Roxie McNelly will preside over a service celebrating Michael’s life on Monday, immediately following the visitation at 2:00 PM at the funeral home. His earthly remains will be laid to rest in New South Park Cemetery in Martinsville following a brief committal service and military graveside honors.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude and are thankful for the love, support and condolences during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest donating to the American Heart Association as Michael suffered with severe heart problems during his lifetime.

Condolences and memories are encouraged to be shared with the family online at www.nealandsummers.com