Dustin Wayne Brandhorst passed away in the line of duty while responding to a structure fire. Dustin died doing what he loved, in service to his community. Firefighting was his passion and lifelong dream. Dustin’s number, 27, was retired in his honor.

Dustin started his service with the Ebenezer Fire Protection District in January 2019. He was an extremely active volunteer, serving in any capacity needed, logging over 700 hours of training, and responding to nearly 300 calls. In 2019, he was honored by the department for the most volunteer hours served. Dustin was in the process of becoming a certified firefighter and was planning to transition to the department full-time.

Every spare moment was spent with his fellow brothers and sisters at the Ebenezer Fire Protection District. He brought his construction expertise to the station and helped with multiple remodel projects. Structure fires were Dustin’s favorite call, and he was always there to help, bringing the water that was needed to put out the fire. He had a passion for aerials, and one of his happiest days was when he got signed off to drive the aerial, Quint 4.

There were not enough hours in the day for Dustin. In addition to the time spent at the fire department, Dustin owned two businesses, Southwest Missouri Remodeling and DWB Services. Between building decks and installing Christmas lights, his name was a household one for many families in the community.

Known as “Cowboy” or “The Kid,” Dustin was never seen without his cowboy boots and was almost always outside. He loved dancing, kayaking, and camping. Of all his loves, his family was the greatest. His wife, Erin, and his children, Landon and Lillianna, were his greatest joy. He was incredibly proud of them and never stopped talking about them when given the chance.

Dustin did everything big. His Christmas light displays and his eating habits were unmatched. He could eat an entire box of spaghetti noodles in one sitting. Tacos, chocolate cake, homemade ice cream and country club eggs could not be left unattended in the kitchen. As big as his appetite was, his sense of humor, his smile, and his heart were bigger.

He is survived by his wife, Erin; children, Landon and Lillianna; puppies, Bella and Hope; his mother, Dianna (Redshaw) Brandhorst; mother-in-law, Tammy Hittenberger; sister and brother-in-law, Marci and Ethan Balkin; brother and sister-in-law, Jeff and Jackie Brandhorst; and so many extended relatives. Dustin was preceded in death by his father, Marc Brandhorst, and his father-in-law, Vince Hittenberger.

Dustin served in life as an Eagle Scout, business owner, and firefighter. Even in death, he continues to serve and save lives as a tissue donor. He was the nicest guy, a friend to everyone.