Donald Brott, age 89, passed away June 14, 2017 at Shelby Baptist Hospital in Alabaster Alabama, two months after being diagnosed with leukemia.
He leaves his wife of 57 years, Anneliese (Langenbach) Brott; his son Lawrence Brott; two daughters, Brigitta Brott and Barbara Brott; and three grandchildren, Luke, Christina, and Caroline.
Don was born and raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the son of Hubert Brott and Anne (Chapell) Brott. After graduating from high school, Don joined the army. While serving, his exceptional intelligence stood out, and he was encouraged to go on to higher education through the GI bill. Accordingly, Don attended the University of Wisconsin Madison to receive a BS in electrical engineering, and then a JD. To support himself through school he worked nights and summers in odd jobs such as an ice cream truck driver, worker in a pickle factory, and a bartender. After receiving his law degree, he settled in Chicago and became a partner with the patent law firm of Hibben, Noyes, and Bicknell, which later merged with Marshall, Gerstein, and Borun. He met and married the charming Anneliese Langenbach, a technical translator and interpreter, and living in the Chicago suburb of Winnetka, they raised their three children. After retiring, Don and Anneliese moved to Wauconda, Illinois, where they enjoyed country living for 26 years.
Don had many interests, prominent among them woodworking, gardening, and music. In all of these he was self taught and never settled for anything less than perfection. With 'help' from his family he built himself a classical guitar, and then taught himself how to play it. He built from scratch or refurbished the majority of the furniture in the house. Don was also an avid reader, especially in the fields of philosophy, religion, and history.
Don's main joy in life, however, was his family. He was devoted to his wife and children, and included them in all his activities. His honesty, patient kindness and hard working personality were the best of all possible examples for his children, and for all who came in contact with him.
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Sponsored by Southern Heritage Funeral Home & Cemetery.
4 Entries
June 20, 2017
Dave and Jean Elms
Very sorry to hear of Don's passing. Anneliese, we miss you folks at Sunday services at Atonement. Don was a God fearing gentleman. He will rest peacefully in God's hands. Our deepest sympathy. In Christian love.
Dave and Jean
June 19, 2017
Peter Johnson
Don was a fine Christian gentleman. We miss seeing him and his wonderful wife sitting in the pews at Lutheran Church of the Atonement. Our thoughts and prayers are with Anneliese and their children and grandchildren at this time of mourning. Know that he will be remembered very fondly.
June 15, 2017
Niecy Baker
Thank you so much for allowing us to care for your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Niecy Baker and all staff at Comfort Care Hospice
June 14, 2017
To the family and friends, I'm truly sorry for your loss, please find comfort in knowing that God keeps your loved one in his memory, and may precious memories provide solace during this challenging time. (Psalms 29:11)
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