Craig Brand

Craig A. Brand joined his Heavenly Father at the age of 74 on January 14, 2025, at home with his devoted family at his bedside. He was the first-born child to Armand and Dorothy (Meyer) Brand on December 26, 1950, in Fargo, ND. A Funeral service will be held on Saturday January 18, 2025 at 12:00pm at the Swan Valley Lutheran Church in Leader, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the start of the service. Private family interment will be held at a later date at the Poplar Cemetery.

From a young age, Craig had an interest in beef cattle and agronomy, which followed him throughout his years. He participated in 4-H and was active within the church. He was popular in track and cross country in his school years. After graduating from Osseo High School, Craig enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served as a Wire Man and in Communications. While on military leave in 1970, Craig married his high school sweetheart, Janice Ludwig. Together they raised three children: Jody, Tracy, and Mike. 

Craig was a mechanic, a farmer, and drove his semi-trucks over 8 million miles during his 43-year career. He and his wife worked together developing a successful one truck owner/operator business named CJ Brand Inc while managing their farm. He took pride in keeping his trucks and equipment pristine. 

Craig will be remembered for his vivid storytelling, his magnetic personality and quick wit. He was known for his readiness to share his knowledge and opinions about most subjects and passing down stories of the past while sitting at the picnic table or ‘dad’s corner’ in the garage. After retirement, you could find him busy with projects here and there on their farm. Being outdoors, working the land in the sun, and watching his cattle was where he loved to be. With unwavering faith, Craig was a dedicated member of Swan Valley Lutheran Church in Leader, MN. 

Craig is survived by his wife Janice of 54 years, children Jody (David) Waterman, Tracy (Jerry) Esler, Mike (Keri) Brand, 11 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; mother, Dorothy Meyer; sister Shari (Dwaine) Nordquist; brothers Kevin Brand, Curtis (Lori) Brand, and Jerry (Donna) Wilber Sr. He is preceded in death by his father, Armand and brothers Scott and Brian Moore. 

Thank you to the Lakewood Health System Hospice and oncology Teams for their support and services. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Staples.