Russell "Rusty" Thomas Brandt

Russell “Rusty” Thomas Brandt passed away on May 8th, 2026 at his home with family due to complications from paralysis. He was born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin on September 16, 1969 to Thomas and Linda Brandt.

From a young age, Rusty had a deep love for hunting and fishing. He shared countless trips with friends and family, making lasting memories and forming new friendships along the way. If you knew Rusty, you knew it was always an adventure.

To support his passion for the outdoors, Rusty worked for most of his career at Waupaca Foundry from 1996 to 2016, working his way up to Tooling Engineer Manager. In 2015, he met Lindsey Wetzel, and the two quickly built a strong friendship rooted in their shared love of the outdoors – especially mushroom hunting. In 2016, Rusty moved to Minnesota to be with Lindsey and began working at Vesuvius (Foseco) as an Account Executive and moved up to Application Engineer in 2020. Together, they blended their families, raising three wonderful children from previous marriages; Jurnee Brandt, Sophia Brandt, and Adalyn Wetzel. Rusty deeply cherished the girls. In 2022, Rusty and Lindsey were married in a small ceremony surrounded by close friends and family.

Rusty loved the outdoors, but even more, he loved the cabin he and Lindsey built together, he treasured the time spent with their family, creating memories. He also had a passion for cooking and was always eager to prepare a meal for those he loved – always making more than one could eat.

He is survived by his wife Lindsey and daughters Jurnee, Sophia, and Adalyn. Brother Shawn (Shannon) Brandt. Brother-in-law Lance (Erin) Herber. Sister-in-law Danielle (Aaron Johnson) Herber. Nephews Scott (Amber) Brandt, Tanner Brandt, and Tristan Herber. Nieces Chelsea Herber, Heidi Herber, Natalie Herber, Father-in-law and Mother-in-law Duane and Cindy Herber.

He is preceded in Death by his Father and Mother.

There will be a celebration of life on July 12th 2026 at the American Legion in Winona MN at 11:00 am with a short dedication around 11:30 am and lunch after.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Winona Area Hospice.