Richard "Dick" Charles Brandell

Richard “Dick” Charles Brandell, a lifelong resident of Cumberland Head, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the UVM Health Network – CVPH Medical Center in Plattsburgh, NY. Born on May 5, 1935, he was the son of Charles Frances Brandell and Mildred (Parker) Brandell. On September 10, 1960, he married Anne Quinn of Poultney, VT, and together they built a loving family. Dick was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Raised on the family farm, Dick led a pair of horses around Cumberland Head at age 11, selling vegetables. He developed a deep love for work, agriculture, and horses from an early age and carried that passion throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of St. John’s Academy, Class of 1953, and even came up with the class yearbook motto: "Forward ever, backward never." After graduation, Dick spent much of his life working in the dairy industry. He began his career at his family’s business, Bay View Dairy, where he delivered milk and also worked as a milk inspector. He eventually took over the business as President, running it alongside his sister Joyce Ayotte, who served as Vice President. Under his leadership, Dick expanded the family business and successfully launched Bay View Dairy Ice Cream, adding a beloved new chapter to the family’s legacy. Later, Dick continued his career in the dairy industry with Crowley Foods, remaining dedicated to the work that had been such a central part of his life. Beyond his work, Dick was an active member of his community. He served as a Cumberland Head Volunteer Fire Commissioner and was involved in various local organizations, including the Elks Club and bowling leagues. He had a passion for agriculture and was well-known for showing Morgan horses, raising sheep and cattle, and collecting antique milk bottles. Known as the unofficial “Mayor” of Cumberland Head, he closely monitored the daily activities around the community from his Kubota side-by-side, always keeping an eye on what was happening in the neighborhood. He had a deep love for his community and the people in it. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 64 years, Anne (Quinn) Brandell. His children and their spouses also survive him: Kathleen (David Champagne) of Plattsburgh, Thomas (Kimberlee) Brandell of Plattsburgh, and Jennifer (Thomas Hopkins, Lt. Det. Boston Police Department) of Quincy, MA. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Geraldine (Quinn) Dankowski, and her late husband, Ted Dankowski, as well as several nieces, nephews, Dick was a proud grandfather to Mary Kate, Michael, and Margaret Champagne; Quinn Brandell; and Nora and Brigid Hopkins. He is also survived by his step-grandchildren, Hunter Dominy and Skye Dominy. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joyce (Brandell) Ayotte, his brother-in-law, Richard “Dick” Ayotte. Dick will be remembered for his humor, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. In the summer, he could often be heard reminding others to "watch out for that black ice!"—a favorite saying that always got a laugh. Special thanks to Jackie Daniels for her unwavering advocacy and dedication in assisting Dick with many of his daily activities. We also thank HCR Nurse Arin Ryan, who went above and beyond in providing care. A heartfelt thank you to Hannah Constanty, Nurse Practitioner of North Wind Primary Care, for always making time for him during office visits and at home. Lastly, we would like to thank the many great doctors and nurses at CVPH who worked with Dick over the last few years. In lieu of flowers, donations can be in the Name of Richard C. Brandell to Chazy Youth Hockey, P.O. Box 462, Chazy, NY 12921, or Seton Catholic School, 206 New York Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12903 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 10 am at St. John's Church, Broad Street, Plattsburgh. After the funeral mass, family will gather to meet with friends and relatives at the church. Arrangements are entrusted to Brown Funeral Home. Online condolences may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeny.com