Clayton Brandes

Clayton "Clayt" R. Brandes, 87, of Crystal Lake, Illinois passed away peacefully on March 3, 2012, surrounded by his family and friends.

He was born in Elgin January 23, 1925, to Herman and Lillie (nee Norlander) Brandes.

A long-time resident of Crystal Lake, he was a friend to many through his 29 years with State Farm Insurance.

Clayt loved times spent with his family and traveling with his wife. He enjoyed cars, airplanes, and all manner of handyman projects.

After service in the Pacific in World War II, he married Betty Jaster in Crystal Lake, worked at Rosenthal's Lumber, and then started his insurance agency in 1960. After retirement, he and his wife spent several years motor homing around the US and enjoying life.

He was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

His survivors include his loving children, Greg (Teri Simoneau), Beth (Paul) Anderson; adored grandchildren, John Brandes, Kristine (Brian) Girskis and Kelly Anderson; great-grandson, Jack Girskis; great-granddaughter, Kate; sister, Beverly Tinik; sister-in-law, Marjorie Mueller; and many cousins.

Clayt was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Betty, and both of his parents.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m., Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rt. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 7, 2012 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1023 S McHenry Ave, Crystal Lake, with a second visitation held one hour prior to mass at church. Burial will follow at Crystal Lake Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois, Attn: Foundation, 405 Lake Zurich Rd, Barrington IL 60010-3141 or St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Building Fund, at the above address.

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