Brandon Connick Obituary: Grand Island, Nebraska -Respected Attorney, Community Leader, and Devoted Family Man Brandon S. Connick Remembered
Brandon S. Connick Obituary, GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Brandon S. Connick passed away on July 28, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of professional excellence, community leadership, and unwavering devotion to his family. A respected attorney and partner at Smith, Johnson, Allen, Connick & Hansen in Grand Island, Brandon was widely admired for his integrity, thoughtful legal counsel, and dedication to serving others throughout Nebraska.
Born on October 24, 1977, in Aurora, Nebraska, Brandon was the son of Terry M. and Karen A. (Kaps) Connick. He graduated from Doniphan Public Schools in 1996 before earning a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Nebraska in 2000. He continued his education at Creighton University School of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude with his Juris Doctor degree in 2003.
After completing law school, Brandon joined Smith, Johnson, Allen, Connick & Hansen and quickly established himself as a trusted legal professional. He became a partner in 2008, earning the respect of colleagues, clients, and members of the legal community through his professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. Those who worked alongside him knew him as a dedicated attorney whose kindness and humility extended well beyond the courtroom.
On June 1, 2002, Brandon married his high school sweetheart, Stephanie Schaeffer, in Grand Island. Together they built a loving family and raised four children: Katelyn, Abigail, Elizabeth, and Jack. Family was the foundation of Brandon’s life, and he took immense pride in supporting and encouraging his children in every stage of their lives. His greatest joy came from spending time with his wife and children and celebrating their accomplishments.
Brandon’s commitment to serving others extended far beyond his legal career. He generously volunteered his time and leadership to numerous charitable and civic organizations, including the Central Catholic Development Foundation, Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska, Greater Grand Island Sunrise Rotary, Habitat for Humanity, and the Grand Island Riverdogs. His dedication to improving his community earned him recognition as a graduate of Leadership Tomorrow’s Class of 2006, inclusion among the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce’s Top 35 Under 35, and designation as a Nebraska State Bar Foundation Fellow.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Stephanie; their four children, Katelyn, Abigail, Elizabeth, and Jack; his brother, Shad (Tanya) Connick; his grandfather, Wayne Kaps; along with many extended family members, friends, colleagues, and countless individuals whose lives he touched throughout his career and community service.
Brandon was preceded in death by his parents, Terry M. and Karen A. Connick; his grandmother, Rose Kaps; his grandparents, Darrell M. Connick and Frances Prewitt; and his uncle, Steve Kaps.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Leo’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church, followed by a vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Inurnment will follow at Grand Island City Cemetery. Memorial contributions have been suggested to the Grand Island Central Catholic Foundation or to the family in support of Brandon’s children’s future education.
Brandon S. Connick will be remembered as an exceptional attorney, a dedicated community leader, a faithful friend, and a loving husband and father. His legacy of service, compassion, integrity, and generosity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Heartfelt condolences are extended to his family, friends, colleagues, clients, and the entire Grand Island community during this time of profound loss.