James M. 'Brando' Brand, 69

Our beloved husband, father, brother and friend Jim passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, at home on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015, while taking his usual morning nap. He had graciously fed the horses and done the chores before he crossed the Great Divide to ride for his Savior’s brand.

Jim was born in Everett, Wash., on Nov. 10, 1945, to Jerry and Mary (French) Brand, who preceded him in death. He grew up in Everett and has maintained many friendships with the Everett High School “Seagulls,” especially the class of 1964. Other friendships developed during his years as a longshoreman on the docks in Everett and as a ski bum in Sun Valley. He served in the Army during the Vietnam conflict.

He was married to Ann Gillespie from 1973-1993. He is survived by their daughter, Alison Brand (Chris Merchant) and son Bo Brand (Karen Chavez). He loved being a grandfather to Ruby and Bailey.

Jim married Jana Tritto in 2001. They lived their dreams on the Brand X Ranch in Rathdrum, Idaho, where he bucked hay bales, fed livestock, fixed fences and tried to keep the tractor running. He was “Dad” to eight special needs stepchildren: Tom, Dana, Richard, Anna, Matthew, Kristina, Heather and Stacy, bringing so much joy and laughter to the children and their caregivers.

He is also survived by his sister, Sandy Hayes and his brother, Steve Brand (Kathleen) both of Camino Island, Wash. He dearly loved his nieces, Gabby and Meghan; and his nephews, Brandon, Alex and Gale.

Jim retired in 2003 after 25 years with Morgan Stanley in Spokane to enjoy time with his family and friends. He loved flyfishing with Bo, golf, reading, and all things cowboy, especially the Pendleton Roundup.

He touched so many lives, and will be missed by all who knew him, especially friends at the Saddle Sore… (“Just one more and we’ll all go home together”) and at Kelsey’s… (“Sit down and buy a round”).

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, at English Funeral Chapel, 1700 N. Spokane St., Post Falls, Idaho, followed by a life celebration potluck at Nashville North in Stateline. We will celebrate 70 years of a life well lived. Please visit Jim’s online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.