Margaret "Marge" Brandenstein

Margaret "Marge" Brandenstein, 86, of Girard passed away on Thursday September 12, 2024 at Shepherd of the Valley, with her loving family by her side. Her demise resulted from complications of a stroke she suffered in May.

Marge was born on March 14, 1938 in Girard, Ohio, the daughter of John and Anna (Smajda) Hudak. She graduated from Girard High School in 1956. She then married her high school sweetheart, Jerry Brandenstein on October 5, 1957 and together they raised their family of five children. Marge was a loving and devoted mother and wife. She was a member of St. Rose Church and had worked part time at Rite Aid in Girard, and eventually retired from Tondo's Carpet. Marge had a big heart and was always loving and caring to those who were in need. 

Marge leaves to cherish her memory her husband Jerry Brandenstein; children, Bob (Chris) Brandenstein of Cornersburg, Jerry Brandenstein, Jr. of Girard, Mike (Christi) Brandenstein of St. Louis, Ron (Linda) Brandenstein of Canfield, and Amy (Frank) Piganelli of Liberty; dear sister and lifelong best friend Dorothy Mayoras of Girard, brother, Alec (Norma) Hudak of Girard; grandchildren, Christopher Brandenstein, Stephanie Brandenstein (fiance Colton Osborne), Jacob Brandenstein, Daniel (Claire) Brandenstein, Hannah Brandenstein, Zoe Brandenstein, Anthony Piganelli, Mia Brandenstein, Madison Piganelli and Evi Brandenstein. Marge was eagerly awaiting her first great-granddaughter in February.

Besides her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Semko, Anne Tarkanish, and Helen Baer; and brothers, Michael, John, and Joseph Hudak.

We’ll never know just how many lives Marge had touched because she gave of herself to meet the needs of others without sharing details of her interactions. She fiercely defended, protected, and vied for those whom she loved. She did her best to avoid any public recognition because ‘acts of kindness should be done to show people that you care about them, or to meet a need; not to draw attention to yourself’. She was the best wife, mother, and friend anyone could want. We’ll be forever grateful for all that she taught us, and thankful to God for making her ours. 

Private services were held for the family at Blackstone Funeral Home. Marge was laid to rest at Girard City Cemetery.

The family asks that any contributions in memory of Marge be made to Hospice Of The Valley.