His career began in the United States Air Force where he achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant. He also worked for the United States Postal Service for 24 years.
He is survived by his wife, Chris; five daughters, Carey Smith, Cathy Chasey, Gina Sterrett, Angie Klein, and Terri Marino; three sons, Kevin Brandt, Aaron Brandt and Nick Marino; sister, Joan Bedall; eighteen grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
A funeral mass was held Monday, February 29, 2016 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 13720 W Thomas Rd, Avondale, AZ. Burial is at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Phoenix Children’s Hospital.