Robert "Bob" David Brand

Robert David Brand, of Lawrence, passed away on August 23, 2026, at the age of 90. Born October 5, 1935, in Milton Center, Ohio, Robert lived a full and meaningful life defined by family, friendship, community, intellectual curiosity, and a spirit of adventure.

Robert was the son of Robert G. Brand and Ardah N. Brand. He spent his early years in Milton Center and Ohio City, Ohio, later living in Wabash, Indiana, before making Indianapolis his home.

He graduated from the Indiana Institute of Technology in Fort Wayne in 1957 and Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio. A talented and accomplished engineer, Robert was the holder of 20 engineering patents, reflecting his creativity, technical expertise, and lifelong passion for innovation. His professional accomplishments were an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Robert believed in being an active part of his community. Over the years, he was a member of the Lawrence Lions Club, Scientech Club, Indianapolis Yacht Club, and Hoosier Power Squadron. He particularly enjoyed boating and time spent on the water, where he found both recreation and the camaraderie of good friends. 

His greatest joy, however, was his family. Robert was the beloved father of Lynne Brand Jackson (Kirk) and R. Scott Brand (Jessica). He was also a devoted stepfather to Max Miller (Susie), Marsha Miller, Mark Miller (Kathy), Mike Miller (Anne), and Roberta Bretzlaff (George).

Robert was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who loved him dearly and brought great joy to his life.

His grandchildren include Alexander Miller (Ali), Nichole Miller, Logan Miller, Angela Swartout (Lloyd), Myra Miller, Vivian Miller, Christopher Carrillo (Maggie), Cortney Carrillo, Miles Miller (Karen), Kelsey Gans (David), Alex Jackson, Natalie Brand, LilahBrand, and Robert Earl Brand.

He was also a proud great-grandfather to Hope, Tyler, Caroline, Margaux, Mason, Mara, Blair, Reese, and Nelle.

Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Cowgill Brand, and his second wife, Velva Dean Brand; his parents, Robert G. and Ardah N. Brand; and his brother, Darrell A. Brand of Port Clinton, Ohio.

He is survived by his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his sister, Shirley J. Randazzo (Nicholas, deceased) of Ellington, Connecticut, and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Robert's life journey took him from Milton Center and Ohio City, Ohio, to Wabash and ultimately Indianapolis. Along the way, he built a life filled with family, accomplishments, friendships, adventures, and experiences that mattered deeply to him.

There will be a Celebration of Life to be announced at a later time.  Robert's final resting place is Woodlawn Cemetery, Ohio City, OH.