Jerry was born February 16, 1933 in the Town of Chelsea, to the late Carl and Lena (Born) Brandner. He attended Whittlesey Elementary Schools, and was a 1951 Graduate of Medford Senior High School. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force where he attended Radio Operator School and served as an International Morse Code Operator on both the B29 and B36 Bomber Aircraft during the Korean War from 1952-1956. He remained on inactive duty for the following four years.
After his military career, he married Shelby Jean Vlach on September 14, 1957, in Rib Lake. Shelby preceded him in death in 2008. He is also preceded by his Parents, and one Daughter, Sharron Marie Brandner, in 2000. In 1961 he built Brandner Deep Rock Gas Station in Medford which from 1961 to 1998 he owned/operated along with Brandner Oil Company.
He was a proud charter member of the Medford Jaycees, Whittlesey Lions Club, and the Holy Rosary Catholic Church. He also was a Life Member of the Medford VFW Post 5729 and The Stetsonville American Legion Post 519. He enjoyed Nascar races, Green Bay Packer games, deer hunting activities and stopping by many social establishments in the Whittlesey and Medford area to spread his humor and good cheer.
Jerry is survived his six children: Cheryl Wright, Cindy (Roger) Dray, Dave (Kris) Brandner, Colleen (Todd) Waldhart, Todd (Marlene) Brandner, all of Medford, and Susette (Bill) Alsteens of Belleville, WI, 11 Grandchildren and 3 Great Grandchildren. His siblings include: Bonnie (late Francis) Fuchs, Ardath (Richard) Dums, Phyllis (late John) Fuchs, Gary (Eileen Mundt) Graham all of Medford, and several nieces and nephews.
