When people describe Ace Brandt, they speak of his strength, vision and love for his family. But to those who knew him best, his greatest legacy wasn’t built in business or community impact, it was the compassion and care he carried into every part of his life.
That same compassion came full circle in Ace’s final months, when HIA Hospice became a source of comfort, guidance and peace for him and his family.
“My dad, God, I love my dad,” said his daughter, Macey. “He was an interesting man, he had his quirks, but he always knew exactly what to do, how to do it, and he took care of us even as he was sick.”
When Ace was diagnosed with glioblastoma, the Brandt family suddenly found themselves navigating the unknown. Macey, her sister, grandmother and Ace’s wife all stepped into the role of caregivers for the first time. “Having that support of HIA Hospice was a blessing,” Macey said. “They helped us take care of my father at home and even at his lake place — the spot he loved most.”
HIA Hospice provided more than medical care, they gave the family the knowledge, confidence and emotional reassurance to face each day together. “What I found most helpful was definitely the knowledge, how to lift him, how to take care of him, what to expect,” Macey said. “We could ask the same questions over and over again, and they were patient every time.”
Even in moments of uncertainty, the hospice team brought calm and compassion. “Nothing really surprised me about what I was getting from HIA Hospice,” Macey shared. “I felt like I had all the support in the world from them. They took the time to sit and talk to us, to see how we were doing mentally and emotionally.”
“As hard as it was to watch him decline, I’m thankful for the time we got and the memories we made.”
Macey, Ace’s Daughter
Ace’s journey was marked by courage and grace. “Some people ask what would’ve been worse, losing him suddenly or having those 10 months from diagnosis to passing,” Macey said. “As hard as it was to watch him decline, I’m thankful for the time we got and the memories we made.”
Through every stage of his illness, the hospice team helped the Brandts understand what was happening, what to expect, how to adjust, and how to ensure Ace remained comfortable and surrounded by love.
On his final day, Macey was by his side. “His one request was that he pass in his home and he wanted his three girls there, me, my sister, and his wife, and that’s what he got,” she said. “It was very peaceful. We all got to be there, surrounding him, loving him.”