Elvira May Brandt

Elvira May was born to Henry and Esther Rosenkoetter on May 30, 1932, in Grand Island, Nebraska. She attended Trinity Lutheran School and then graduated from Grand Island High School in 1950. After graduation, she began work with the telephone company and spent time with the Walther League (Lutheran Young People’s Society). She enjoyed traveling to Europe and Hawaii for the travel adventures of her lifetime.

In 1955 she moved west to Portland. There she met Donald Brandt. On July 2nd, 1959, Elvira and Don married in Grand Island, Nebraska at Trinity Lutheran Church. Elvira and Don were blessed with four sons-- Paul (DeAnn), Carl (Vicki), Mark (Peggy), and Dale, ten grandchildren – Sarah (John), Jordan, Timothy, Taylor (Clara), Matthew (Suzanne), Colin (Hana), Carolyn, Mason, Drew, and Nicholas. Five great grandchildren have been added - James, Sophia, Magdalena, Alexandra, and Joanna. She loved being a part of the activities and milestones of all her grandkids. Don preceded her in death in 2003 after 44 years of marriage.

Elvira was involved in many church organizations including Dorcas, LWML, Choir, and Bells. For over 25 years she was the LWML district archivist and had a short stint as the district president. Elvira was known for her love of fancy, colorful hats and enjoyed matching those with the season and outfits. (Her favorite color was purple!). She never turned down a chance to play card games with the family and others and spent many evenings with the church pinochle playing group in past years. She made many, many quilts with the Trinity quilting group for Lutheran World Relief, as well as special quilts for the grandkids and many personalized cross-stitched treasures.

Elvira LOVED roses, pinning one on her sweater, or having a freshly cut bouquet to give to friends and family. She was the recipient of many Portland Rose Festival awards for her rose blooms and home garden, nurtured with huge help from her son, Dale, in later years.

We are grateful for the almost 92 years she shared with us. She lived in service to her Savior Jesus Christ, to her family, and to her beloved church family.

A graveside ceremony for Elvira will be held Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Skyline Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 4101 NW Skyline Blvd., Portland, OR 97229.