Brandon S. Connick Obituary, GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Brandon S. Connick passed away on July 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of professional excellence, dedicated community service, and unwavering devotion to his family. A respected attorney and partner at Smith, Johnson, Allen, Connick & Hansen in Grand Island, Connick was widely admired for his commitment to his clients, thoughtful legal counsel, and meaningful contributions to the Nebraska community.
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 later attended Creighton University School of Law, graduating magna cum laude with his Juris Doctor degree in 2003.
Following law school, Brandon joined Smith, Johnson, Allen, Connick & Hansen in 2003 and became a partner in 2008. Throughout his legal career, he built a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and dedication to those he served. Colleagues and clients alike respected his thoughtful approach to the practice of law, while friends and coworkers knew him as a compassionate individual whose kindness extended well beyond the courtroom.
On June 1, 2002, Brandon married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Stephanie Schaeffer, in Grand Island. Together they raised four children—Katelyn, Abigail, Elizabeth, and Jack. Family was at the center of Brandon’s life, and he was known for expressing daily how proud he was of each of his children. Those closest to him remember his deep love for his family and the encouragement he offered them throughout their lives.
Beyond his legal career, Brandon devoted countless hours to charitable and civic organizations. His service included involvement with the Central Catholic Development Foundation, Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska, Inc., Greater Grand Island Sunrise Rotary, Habitat for Humanity, and the Grand Island Riverdogs. His commitment to leadership and community earned him recognition as a graduate of Leadership Tomorrow’s Class of 2006, selection among the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce’s Top 35 Under 35, and designation as a Nebraska State Bar Foundation Fellow.
Brandon is survived by his wife, Stephanie; their four children, Katelyn, Abigail, Elizabeth, and Jack; his brother, Shad (Tanya) Connick; and his grandfather, Wayne Kaps. He 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, with Msgr. Mark Huber presiding and Bishop Emeritus Most Rev. William J. Dendinger and Rev. Donald A. Buhrman concelebrating. Inurnment will follow at Grand Island City Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, July 31, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church, followed by a vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Memorials have been suggested to the Grand Island Central Catholic Foundation or to the family in support of Brandon’s children’s future education. As family, friends, colleagues, and members of the community mourn his passing, Brandon S. Connick will be remembered with gratitude and admiration for the lasting impact he made through his profession, his service, and the love he shared with those around him.
