Brad Gary Brannon

Brad Gary Brannon, age 41 of Fraser, died Saturday, August 25, 2018. Brad's death follows the compassionate decision to donate his organs to help save the lives of others in need. He was born January 25, 1977 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, son of Vicky Lynn (nee: Redmon) Brannon and the late William Joseph Brannon.Though it's never easy to wrap one's mind around losing someone so young, the wake of Brad's death sweeps over the hearts of those he loved and immerses them with the storehouse of memories he leaves behind through his impactful nature and spirit. Life will go on,…but, sadly, his character and presence will truly be missed.Brad enjoyed a plethora of pleasures and pastimes, but they had to be earned. Like the bumper sticker states; "I owe, I owe, so off to work I go." So off he went each day to join his workmates as they redressed many-a-rooftop as members of Roofer's Local #149. Having chosen a career that demands an incredible amount of stamina and workmanship, each day was made more special by sharing it with his fellow union brother's. Being a fraternal order of contractors, going to work for Brad meant he was about to work hard with a bunch of guys he truly cared for. How about that for a job, eh? So when the responsibilities of work were done and it was time for a little escape for fun, there were a number of varied and entertaining pastimes he enjoyed. Known for his adventurous spirit, Brad could often be found giving one of his "macho machines" a workout. From the array of dirt bikes, to his bevy of four-wheelers, and that amazing boat,…if it had an engine, it had his name written all over it. Also,…it didn't hurt that he had 3 rambunctious teenagers to help him work out all that machismo. Though the boat was mentioned, this bio would be terribly remiss if not to expound on the "passion" he held in the joy of water sports. He loved boating and found great enjoyment each time he took her out on the lake. Being a resident of the Great Lakes State, enjoying all of that fresh water was made even more special each time Brad opened up that engine and watched the front end of the boat come out of the water. For as much as Brad loved the roar of an engine within his grip, he was equally enthralled by his love of nature, the outdoors, and soaking up the joy of Michigan's backwoods experience. Whether he was camping with family or friends or simply settling back at the family cottage up in Oscoda (One of Brad's absolute favorite places to be), exchanging the concrete jungle for a taste of Michigan's up north splendor was an escape he liked to make as often as he could. Another of Brad's outdoor pleasures came every Fall when he got to join the throngs of his fellow deer hunters as they scoured the woods for something Big & Tasty. Brad loved the whole deer hunting experience,…not merely for the sporting aspect, but also for the camaraderie shared amongst he and his buddies as they gathered together on their annual venture into deer country. There were always great times to be had while hunting,…and a freezer full of venison, if he got lucky.Another notable pastime that Brad enjoyed immensely is one that dates back to his early childhood,…bowling. He was about 4 years old when he and his brothers would head on down to the local bowling alley, Liberty Lanes on the corner of Frazho and Gratiot in Roseville. It became one of their favorite places for entertainment, and one in which Brad would go on to spend a considerable amount of time honing his skills. And hone he did…as his hand sported the coveted ring to prove his victory of rolling a "300 Game." From the many leagues he bowled, both men's and mixed alike, the bowling alley was like his home away from home, and a source of sharing great friendships over the years. He was slated to begin another wonderful bowling season this past Sunday,…go figure. So the next time you hear a clap of thunder from on high, just imagine,…that's another strike from the BradMeister!And since we're highlighting Brad's passions, there just has to be an acknowledgement of his love for Hogs,…and it has nothing to do with little porcine creatures and their corkscrew tails. Being one of the many rider's out there who often straddle their impressive Harley-Davidson's, Brad loved the open road and the sound of his bike ringing in his ears, a sound that always rang, "America!" Whether you're officially a part of a bike membership or simply a biker that enjoys a decent ride every now and then, being the owner of a coveted Harley-Davidson motorcycle automatically thrusts you into a brotherhood that is both humbling and exhilarating at the same time. Brad knew that feeling and lived it well. He truly loved his bike.Yet of all the passions in life that provided Brad the joys, pleasures, and highlights that meant the most to him, there is nothing that could have even come close to the matchless love he held for his wife, his three boys, and the rest of his loved ones who mourn his loss today. There are so many adjectives that could be used right now to describe Brad's winning character,…so many recollections that could paint a million pictures of the loving and caring guy he was to all, who knew him. Yet in every reflection one is destined to entertain when Brad comes to mind, he is sure to be remembered for his outgoing personality and his heart of compassion for his fellow man. Brad truly possessed a servant's heart, one that gave unselfishly and always put others' needs ahead of his own. A loving husband, father and brother, Brad leaves this mortal coil far too young,…but not without leaving a part of himself for each to cherish. It is sure to come to each in their own unique fashion,…but Brad was full of love and his love reached out to so many, in so many different ways. He lived, he laughed, and he loved with a passion,…and now he goes on ahead to rest as he awaits that great reunion in Heaven when we will all come together again. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally. Brad leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Kristy, and three beautiful sons; Bradley (age 19), Anthony (age 16), and Donavan (age 14). He was the devoted brother of Billy Brannon, Robert (Christine) Brannon, Shelley (Dave) Watson, and a loving uncle and cousin to several extended family members.Visitation for Brad will be held Friday, August 31st from 3-9 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren, Michigan 48093. He will lie in state on Saturday, September 1st from 9:30 am until time of the Funeral Service at 10:00 am at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 26830 West Park Street, Roseville, Michigan 48066. Following the service, Brad will be laid to rest at Christian Memorial Cultural Cemetery, 521 East Hamlin Road, Rochester Hills, Michigan 48307.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcomed to the family.Please share memories of Brad at his guestbook above.