Les Brandt

Les Brandt, 77, Fargo, ND, formerly Horace, ND, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026 at Bethany on University surrounded by his loving family.

Leslie Dean Brandt was born July 20, 1948 in Bottineau, ND to Leonard and Violet (Olson) Brandt. He grew up at Upham, ND and graduated from high school there. He married his high school sweetheart Judith Lock on Nov. 8, 1968 in Selby, SD. They made their home in Minot where he worked at a gas station and a warehouse for a few years. They moved to the West Fargo/Horace area. They managed a motel and the Gateway Cinema. He also worked for his family custom combining and had a lifelong career in the building trade. He worked for DMI, Industrial Builders, Sherbrooke Inc, PACES Lodging and PK Homes. Illness forced him to retire in 2021 and in December of 2025 Les and Judy moved to Bethany on University.

Les was his family’s biggest cheerleader in sporting events for his kids and grandkids. He loved watching the NDSU Bison and the occasional NFL football game. He was also active in the drag racing scene in the region. Most of all, there was never a dull moment as Les was the family jokester.

He is survived by his wife, Judy of 58 years; two daughters, Jody (Wes) Christianson and Heidi (Ron Schenck) Brandt; four grandchildren, Dawson (Ariel Riemer) Anderson -child Bodhi Dean and baby Anderson due March 2026, Gage (Reagan Chambers) Anderson, Keaton (Maia Hilscher) Ballestad and Kamry (Chase Fultz) Ballestad; two step grandchildren, Paige (Cory Cafferty) Hoff and Miah Thiel; siblings, Larry Brandt, Gayle Lawson, Colleen (Junior) Holen and Danny (Jean) Brandt; sister-in-law, Sharon Brandt; and several nieces and nephews.

Les was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Melba (Carl) Olson, Lyle Brandt; brother-in-law, David Lawson; and sister-in-law, Theresa Brandt.

Special thanks to Ethos Hospice care team especially Ellie and Miranda along with the Bethany staff for their exceptional care given to Dad and our family.

A public Celebration of Les’ Life will be held at Big Erv’s in Horace, ND on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 – sharing of memories at 6 PM followed by karaoke starting at 7 PM.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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