James Russel Brant

James Russel Brant, 99, Garrett, passed peacefully on January 26, 2020 at Meadow View Nursing Center, Berlin. Born March 9, 1920 in Brothersvalley Twp., son of the late Charles and Nancy (Tipton) Brant.  Preceded in death by his wife, the former Ethel Maust, daughter Linda Mae Thompson, brother Roy E. Brant, and sisters Edna Llewellyn and Florence Rentzel. Survived by three sons, James S., married to the former Sherry Burkholder, Garrett; Wayne R. married to the former Cynthia Tissue, Meyersdale; and Lee Roy, married to the former Roxanne Oakes, Meyersdale; son-in-law Richard Thompson, Muncie IN; grandchildren: Renee Klink, Denise Royal, Julie Vega, Jill, Jacilynn, Adam, Emily and Lea Brant, Ryan Oakes and Nichole Durst.  James is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. James was a third-generation farmer in Brothersvalley Twp.  While farming, he and his brother worked their own coal mine.  After his farm was sold, he worked as the furnace man at the Somerset County Courthouse and then retired for good and built a home on a parcel of land from his farmland, where he lived until just after his 99th birthday.  James loved to travel with his wife, Ethel.  He pitched horseshoes, bowled, and was an avid fisherman. Private graveside services at Fritz Cemetery.  Donations in James’ memory may be sent to Zion Lutheran Church, 355 Center St., Meyersdale, PA 15552. Arrangements entrusted to Deaner Funeral Home, Berlin. DeanerFuneralsAndCremations.com