Daniel Joseph Branda

12/31/1949 - 8/11/2025

It is with profound sadness and love that we announce the passing of Daniel Branda, a devoted husband, father, uncle, and friend, who left this world peacefully on August 11th, 2025 at 11:11pm at the age of 75.

Born in Chicago on December 31, 1949, Dan grew up in an Italian household as one of five children, surrounded by the warmth, noise, and love of a close-knit family. At the age of 13 his father passed away unexpectedly causing Dan to shoulder responsibilities far beyond his years, working to help provide for his family while still pursuing his education. Those early experiences shaped his lifelong values of hard work, perseverance, and putting family first.

Dan lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and a deep devotion to his family. He believed in working hard, keeping one’s word, and finding joy in life’s simple moments — whether it was sharing a home-cooked meal, golfing, fly fishing, watching TV, attending sport events, or telling a perfectly timed joke that left everyone laughing.

As a husband, Dan was a true partner in every sense. His marriage to Lorelei was a testament to love, loyalty, and mutual respect. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and shared dreams. He cherished his wife deeply, always putting her happiness first, and their bond was an inspiration to all who knew them.

As a father, Dan was both a steady guide and a safe harbor. His children knew they could count on him for wisdom, support, and unconditional love. He led by example, teaching not just with words but through the way he lived: with patience, kindness, and a steadfast sense of responsibility.

He received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1971, laying the foundation for a remarkable career. Dan’s work ethic was unmatched. After college Dan joined the Army Reserves and completed his training a year before he began working for Hewlett-Packard in 1972. In 1994, he completed the Harvard Advanced Management Program, further sharpening his executive skills.

During his tenure at Hewlett-Packard, Dan achieved many milestones where his leadership, vision, and dedication propelled him through the ranks. In 1972 he started his career as a calculator sales representative and held progressively more responsible management positions in both sales and support. He was appointed general manager of Hewlett-Packard’s western region in 1991. He was appointed President and CEO of Canadian operations in 1993 and was elected Chairman of the Board in 1997. He was President of INTRIA-HP, a joint venture between CIBC and Hewlett-Packard Company, from its creation in November 1998 until July of 2001.

While in Canada he was a member of the Board of Directors for Ontario Power Generation, the Business Council on National Issues and the Conference Board of Canada. He was also Chair and Member of the Board of Directors for the Information & Technology Association of Canada. In 2001 the Canadian Government selected Dan to be one of the representatives for Canada at the 2001 World Economic Forum where Yasser Arafat was Key Speaker.

After more than three decades of service, he retired from Hewlett-Packard at the age of 55 to focus his attention on his family and hobbies. He left behind a legacy of innovation, integrity, and excellence that inspired all who knew him.

Retirement for Dan was anything but idle. He made many lifelong friends on the golf course. A passionate golfer, he played nearly every day and poured his time, energy, and business expertise into the Perry Park Country Club, where he served as president for six years. Through his vision, strategic thinking, and dedication he helped transform the club into a thriving, growing success that members could be proud of. He also served as head of his neighborhood HOA, applying that same leadership and problem-solving skill to strengthen and improve his community.

Outside of leadership and service, Dan embraced life with curiosity and joy. He loved both golf and bowling, happily spending hours on the greens or in the lanes. In the evenings he was an avid viewer of science, history, astronomy, and finance TV programs, always eager to learn something new and to keep up with the world. In the kitchen, he was a natural talent — the kind of cook who could open the refrigerator, see a few odds and ends, and create a meal that was nothing short of fantastic.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing his legacy lives on — in the stories we share, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.

Dan lived a life that mattered. He was a man who loved deeply, worked tirelessly, and gave generously of himself — not for recognition, but because it was who he was. In his roles as husband, father, leader, and friend, he showed us all what it means to live with purpose, grace, and unwavering love. While we will miss him more than words can say, we are grateful for the years we had and for the example he set — one that will guide us for the rest of our lives.

“The measure of a man is not in what he leaves behind, but in the lives he touched along the way.”

He leaves behind his loving wife Lorelei, his girls Rachel and Natalie, his siblings Anna Marie and Michael, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his sister Margaret and brother John.

Visitation for Daniel will be held Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Olinger Andrews Caldwell Gibson Chapel, 407 Jerry Street, Castle Rock, Colorado 80104.

Funeral Mass will occur Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2746 Fifth St, Castle Rock, Colorado 80104, followed by a graveside service at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 880 E Wolfensberger Road, Castle Rock, Colorado 80109.

A Celebration of Life will occur Friday, August 22, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Cielo at Castle Pines, 485 W. Happy Canyon Rd, Castle Rock, Colorado 80108.

Memorial contributions may be made in Daniel's name to Aspire at 1815 S. Wolf Rd. in Hillside, Illinois 60162 or by visiting https://aspirechicago.com/get-involved/donate/