Obituary of Dana T. Brandt

Dana Thomas Brandt September 5th, 1964 – November 22nd, 2011 Born in Seattle WA to Dale & Beatrice Thomas. She joined sisters Darci & Brenda. The family moved to Camas in 1969 after adding brother, Blaik. Dana excelled in school and many sports, competing in invitational track meets across the country and was the only National Merit Scholar in Clark County her senior year. In 2010, the Camas Boosters inducted Dana into the Hall of Fame as the first scholar/athlete. She continued her education at WSU, where she was on the track team and worked nearly full time. She graduated with a double major in Accounting and Hotel & Rest. Admin, then went on to get her Masters in Business. She passed her CPA exam on the first try. After working in Hanford as an auditor, Dana moved to Portland in 1997 & worked as a CFO at Taylormade Products, ultimately serving as the CEO as well. In 2008 she began working as CFO for Housing NW a non-profit organization in Portland, ending her career there as Executive Director, when her battle against breast cancer became too great. One of Dana's dreams was to have a family and in 2005 she became mother to Chrislove and Christo, adopted from Haiti, and Sam, her biological son. She was "Super Mom". All those who knew Dana benefitted from her giving spirit and inclusive nature. She volunteered in community school and church, lending her extensive abilities in any way she could. She saw the best in everyone. She is survived by children Chrislove, Christo & Sam, parents Dale & Beatrice, sisters Darci Pillette Gary, Brenda Simpkins Lee, brother Blaik Thomas Jen & numerous nieces & nephews. We will be having a celebration of her life Sunday, December 11th at 2:00 p.m. at St. John's Community Center in Portland 8427 N Central St. 503-823-3192. Straub's Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation in Camas was in charge of the arrangements. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to Susan G. Komen Foundation or Providence Hospice. To send condolences or to sign the online guest book please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com.