Dean Branson

Dean Russell Branson, 81, of Central Lake, passed away December 12 at his home.  He was born July 11, 1941 in Livingston, Montana, to Otis and Katherine (Moore) Branson. 

Dean earned his undergraduate degree from Redlands University in Redlands, CA, and then went on to achieve a PhD in Biochemistry from Montana State University in Bozeman, MT.  He became a biochemist for the Dow Environmental Company. 

Dean was a very active man in his community.  He served as a “big brother” in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for over 50 years, was a member and past President of the Three Lakes Association and Elk Rapids Rotary International.  Dean enjoyed boating, snow skiing, gardening, spending time with his grandchildren, and engaging in any type of physical labor.  He was also an active member of the Calvary Lutheran Church in Elk Rapids. 

On August 24, 1963, in Billings, Montana, Dean married Sharon F. Feuerherm who survives.  Also surviving Dean are their three children, David R. (Kimberly) Branson of Vero Beach, FL, Katherine D. Branson of Mason, MI, and Dennis W. Branson of Grand Rapids, MI.  As well as grandchildren Evan Otis Branson, Dennis (Aubry) Wellington Branson, Shayna Lynne Branson, and Anthony Dean Branson, one great-granddaughter Malaney Amara Branson, and several nieces and nephews.  Dean was preceded in death by his parents and brother Ralph Wellington Branson. 

Funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 17, at Calvary Lutheran Church, 10180 Elk Lake Rd., Elk Rapids, MI 49690 with Pastor Zachery Nelson officiating.  Visitation will take place from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral at 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to ALS of Michigan, 24359 N.W. Hwy, Ste. 100, Southfield, MI 48075, Calvary Lutheran Church, PO Box 149, Elk Rapids, MI 49629, Rotary of Elk Rapids, PO Box 814, Elk Rapids, MI 49629, or the Three Lakes Association, PO Box 689, Bellaire, MI 49615. 

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81178072717?pwd=ZEFKZkVsUDhSSkcwV21oM29lS2ludz09

Meeting ID: 811 7807 2717
Passcode: 677931

Arrangements are in the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.