Charles Crennell Brandt II

Charles Crennell Brandt passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the age of 86. Born in Lorain, Ohio, Charlie lived a full and joyful life devoted to family, friends, and community.

Charlie was a Parade Magazine All-American basketball player in high school and went on to attend Northwestern University on a basketball scholarship. After college, he returned to Elgin, Illinois, where he began his career with Monroe Systems for Business. It was in Elgin where he met Nancy Gordon—the love of his life—with whom he built a beautiful family and shared many adventures.

Charlie’s career took him to Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he served as branch manager for Monroe Systems before founding his own company, CTC Office Products. A lifelong athlete, Charlie was an avid runner who completed countless marathons and proudly served as president of the Fort Wayne Track Club.

Above all, Charlie will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, his deep love of family, his kindness, and his generosity. He had an unwavering commitment to helping others and a remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved and valued.

Charlie’s family and friends will forever cherish his humor, integrity, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth (John) Brandt Bordes and Leslie (Andy) Brandt Small; beloved grandchildren, Anna Brandt, Elizabeth Brandt, Mary Kate Brandt, Charlie Brandt, Michael Brandt, John Bordes, Maggie Bordes, Kate Bordes, Lilly Small, and Paige Small. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Brandt; son, Charlie Brandt (Kathy); and parents, Charles and Ethel Brandt.

The celebration of Charlie’s Life is from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Rd, Fort Wayne.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society.