Dana was born in Madera, California on June 25, 1959. She attended Dairyland Elementary and Chowchilla Union High School where she graduated in 1977. She furthered her education at Heald Business College in Fresno, California, receiving a clerical accounting certification.
Dana met the love of her life in 2013, Frank Eastman, and married in 2017. They spent their time together taking trips to Alaska, long drives to explore the west coast, and having fun with their loved ones.
Dana gave her time and services at many Branco roping’s that were held at the family ranch, the Chowchilla Western Stampede and played a vital role when the family started Branco & Sons Cargill Business and Store. After college she worked at Chowchilla Water District, then took her career to Riverview Ranches in 1985 where she worked until her passing. She enjoyed playing a role in each of these and always had a desire to help where needed. She gave back to the community aiding in several fundraisers for the Chowchilla High School Ag Department, local Chowchilla fair, and MARK (Make A Room for Kids) for Valley Children’s Hospital. In her free time, she enjoyed being with family and friends, attending many events to support those in her life. Dana loved having great nephew Daniel and other family over in summer to swim, taking long walks with cousin Jeannie, and various outings with her girl group. She was a pillar for many and always available for an uplifting phone call, good laugh, and great advice. Her infectious smile and wit will be remembered by many.
She is survived by husband, Frank Eastman, brother Steve, his wife Kathy Branco, brother Larry, his wife Jodi and their sons, Stan (Kate) and Roy (Lenai) Branco, and Sam (Vanessa) Orrison. Her great nephew, Daniel Branco, and great niece, Kate Orrison. Dana is also survived by, stepdaughter, Kari Anderson, uncle Eddie and aunt Lee Branco, and cousin Jeannie and Danny Lawerence, their four children and several other loving cousins, friends, and a whole community.
Dana was preceded in death by her parents, Dan and Florence Branco.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to The American Cancer Society or Valley Children’s Hospital.
She was a loving wife, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. The legacy of Dana Jo Branco-Eastman will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone she interacted with.
