Donald Brant

Obituary of Donald R. Brant

It is with profound sorrow and steadfast faith that we announce the passing of Donald R. Brant, a devoted Christian, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. Donald lived a life marked by faith in God, hard work, integrity, and lifelong service to his family and community.

Donald grew up in a large family of eleven children, including five half-siblings. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a practical, can-do mindset. While still in high school, he began making wooden house numbers and selling them locally. His determination soon carried him beyond Orlando as he expanded his small business by bicycle into Sanford, DeLand, Lakeland, and Winter Haven. This early initiative laid the foundation for a lifetime of diligence and public service.

In 1939, Donald spent approximately eight months in Cleveland, Tennessee, working at a church publishing house, an experience that reflected both his faith and his growing independence. In 1943, he married the love of his life, Esther H. Brant (Rogers). After returning to Orlando, Donald answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Though he often humbly acknowledged he did not fully understand what was expected of him, he rose to the challenge. He played a key role in surveying nearly all of Florida's air bases that would later transition into municipal airports.

In 1944, Donald began a pivotal chapter of his career when he joined the City of Orlando as its first non-contracted surveyor, advancing to chief engineer. He dedicated 37 years to the city, contributing significantly to its growth and development. Between 1947 and 1961, he also pursued architectural design, creating residential home plans that reflected both creativity and technical skill.

Following his retirement from the City of Orlando, Donald continued to serve the public, joining Orange County in 1983 as head of highway and bridge construction. He held this position with distinction until his retirement in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to service.

His faith was central to Donald's life. He and his family were active members of the Assembly of God for 35 years, later joining Calvary Assembly of God in Winter Park, where he continued to grow in faith and fellowship. His Christian walk shaped his character and guided his actions throughout his life.

Donald was preceded in death by his siblings:

· Sisters: Leone Hunt, Shirley Haynes, Rena Colson, Twila Brant, Carol Brant, Jene Malone

· Brothers: Verl Brant, Vernon Brant, Bill Brant, Neil Brant, Silvia Brant, Wayne Brant, Ray Charles, Doyle Brant, and his beloved wife, Esther, his daughter, Margaret, and others who went before him.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and extended family, as well as many friends and colleagues whose lives were touched by his kindness, integrity, and dedication.

Surviving family includes:

• Brother and sister-in-law: Ralph and Norren Brant

• Son: Roger Brant (Glenn Ferron)

• Son-in-law: Richard Powell, remarried (Shirley Picklo)

Grandchildren:

· Richard Tracy Powell, Trevor Powell, Vince Timmons, Shannie Timmons, Esther Hobbs, Candy Brant, Hushton Burton,

Great-grandchildren:

· Heather Brito, Taylor Powell, Drew Powell, Vince Timmons, Gavin Curry, Alysha Booth, , Owen Burton, Brookline Burton, Joyce Burton, Justice Burton, Jaxann Burton, Jackie Burton, Aiden Curry

Great-great-Grandchildren:

· Leo Brito Iswald Vantassel Cyrus Stevens, Abel Hutton, Wrenlee Markham, Genevieve Eastridge

A viewing will be held for all on January 2, 2025, At Colonial Funeral Home, at 2811 Curry Ford Rd., Orlando, with a private family viewing from 3:00 - 4:00 PM and a public viewing 4:00 - 6:00 PM, followed by a graveside service on Sunday, January 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Cemetery,400 Woodlawn Cemetery Rd. Gotha, FL 34734

May Donald R. Brant rest in the peace of his Savior, and may his legacy of faith, service, and love continue to inspire all who knew him.