Ronald M. Brandenburg, 89, of Burlington, died Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington.
Born on May 24, 1936, in Burlington, he was the son of Melvin and Hazel Brandenburg. On June 4, 1977, he married Roberta L. Stahl. She preceded him in death on Sept. 10, 2019.
Ronald was a 1954 graduate of Burlington High School. He worked for Champion Spark Plug for thirty-two years until his retirement. Together with Roberta they managed Park Madison Apartments. For sixty years, Ronald shared a deep love of league bowling with Roberta, bowling both single and mixed leagues, and the two rarely missed a chance to spend an evening dancing together. Watching them dance was something everyone loved. Some of his happiest moments were spent at his cabin. Fishing, fires, playing cards, boating, and planting his flowers. He also enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events and enjoying every moment spent with family he dearly loved. Ron was also a devoted Cardinals Baseball and Chicago Bears football fan.
He is survived by his children: Brandi Hansel (Luke Bell) of North Liberty, Iowa, Ron Ty (Brittanie) Brandenburg, of Burlington, Bridgette Brandenburg of Burlington, Lori Cooley of Solon, Iowa, Rhonda Frandsen of Overland Park, Kansas, Joey (Dana) Brandenburg of Palmyra, Missouri, and Lisa (Dean) VanPelt of El Paso, Texas; nine grandchildren: Austin and Presley Hansel, Adessa, Ava, Addilyn Brandenburg, Kingston, Kennix, and Kayden Brandenburg and Ryan Mehaffy; sister Marge (Don) Setterberg of Ames, Iowa. He is also survived by Lily, his dog and best friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Roberta, sister Sharon Brandenburg and his other best dog friends: Lana, Breezy and Baby.
To all who knew him, Ronald will always be remembered for his kindness, quick humor, gentle heart, and his rare gift of never meeting a stranger—only friends he hadn’t made yet.
Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Carthage Lake Club May 29, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m.