Brandon Lee Wanatee, Sr. "E-DE-KA-MA-KEA", 65, of Tama, passed away, Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. A Traditional Wake will be held Thursday, October 15, 2026 at the Eagle Clan Ceremonial Building on the Meskwaki Settlement, rural Tama. A Traditional Graveside Service will be held Friday, October 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Meskwaki Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement, rural Tama with Wayne Pushetonequa as speaker.

Brandon was born on September 19, 1961, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of Clyde Clark and Cynthia (Scott) Wanatee.

Brandon served his country in the U.S. Army from 1980-1982.

He graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Art. Brandon’s employment over the years included working at Jostens, MBCH Printshop, Meskwaki Buffet, and the Travel Plaza.

Brandon enjoyed drawing cartoons, going to the casino, and watching the Las Vegas Raiders, and Iowa Hawkeyes. He also liked to cook.

Survivors include his children, Bradley Wanatee, Zachary (Lyrik) Wanatee, Courtney Wanatee, and Brandon Wanatee Jr.; grandchildren, Evangeline, Maxwell, and Forrest; siblings, Rose E. Wanatee, Natalie Wanatee, Clyde K. Wanatee, LeAnn Morgan, Leland Morgan, and Linda Morgan; nieces, Shayna Wanatee, and Aurelia Morgan; nephews, Conklin Morgan, Joseph Thompson, Jordan Thompson, and Daevon Morgan; and paternal uncle, Michael Wanatee Jr.

Preceding him in death were his parents; stepfather, Leo Morgan; paternal uncles, Gailey C. Wanatee, Myron Wanatee Sr., Johannes Wanatee Sr., Oscar Wanatee, and William Wanatee; and paternal aunt, Priscilla Wanatee Potts.

Special thanks to UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital, Meskwaki Health and CHR’s, and Meskwaki Seniors.