Carl O. Brandt

Carl O. Brandt, 70, of Dunkirk, passed away Saturday evening, October 11, 2025 at Brooks Memorial Hospital with his loving family by his side. Born in Dunkirk on August 27, 1955, he was the husband of Deborah (Flahaven) Brandt and son of the late Donald and Kathryn (Ogden) Brandt.

Carl dedicated 38 years to serving as a professional firefighter for the Fredonia Fire Department. He held the position of Union President for the Fredonia Professional Firefighters Association, Local 2931, for 25 years, providing leadership and advocacy for his fellow firefighters.

Carl's career was marked by a deep sense of duty and compassion; he was not only a firefighter but also a medic for the WCA and a Flight Medic for Starflight. His enduring passion for helping others was further demonstrated by his 43-year membership with the Fenner Hose Company #2. Carl's legacy reflects his unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his community.

He demonstrated his courage and commitment to service when he volunteered for the 9/11 Search and Rescue alongside his best friend, Bob Sayers, an experience that highlighted his compassionate heart and willingness to help those in need.

His engaging personality made him a respected figure in the community. He was known for his considerate nature and was well-loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His influence extended beyond firefighting; he served as Vice President on the Fredonia Central School District Board of Education for five years and shared his passion for sports as a coach for both the Fredonia Little League and Babe Ruth.

Carl cherished his deer hunting trips with his best friend, Bob Sayers, and his sons, creating treasured memories at their cabin. An avid sports fan, Carl supported the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Chicago White Sox. In addition to these interests, he had a remarkable athletic accomplishment in powerlifting for the International Powerlifting Association, where he set a world record in his weight class by bench pressing 350 pounds.

Memberships include the American Legion Post 62, Kosciuszko Club, and the Exempts Club of Dunkirk and Fredonia.

Carl is survived by his loving wife Deborah (Flahaven) Brandt, whom he married on June 28, 2014; loving children Shannon Burgun, Patrick Brandt, Scott Brandt and Donald (Brenna) Brandt; grandchildren Andrew, Noah, Ava, Marissa, Addison, Aiden, Quinn, Parker, Sawyer, Maddie, Rory and Mallory; siblings Ann (Colby) Cram, Rebecca Helfrich, Mary Brandt, and Leadlay (Deborah) Ogden. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and his beloved Canine companion, Keno. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Martha Lessinger. 

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Calling Hours on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 from 3-7 p.m. at McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home; 736 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church. Interment will be held in Forest Hill Cemetery in Fredonia, NY. 

Flowers are gratefully declined.