David Branham, age 93, of Albion, MI was ushered away by the angels to meet his wife, daughter, and granddaughter, surrounded by his loving family, on October 4, 2023. He was born on February 9, 1930, in Weeksbury, KY, to Jesse and Mintie Branham.
David was an avid outdoorsman. He taught himself to hunt and fish and spent many years enjoying deer hunting, fishing, and ice fishing. He made his own fishing lures.
David joined the Army in 1948, where he taught himself to drive, and spent time in Japan. He was honorably discharged in 1952. He always humbly accepted thanks for his service whenever it was offered.
He was a career master mechanic, working for several different dealerships in the Albion, Jackson area until his retirement. David was a CBer from the onset of the craze, and went by the handle Davy Crockett, making many friends and over the airwaves. He was also a leather crafter and made many beautiful leather belts, wallets, and other crafts over the years. He was a gardener and planted one every year, including this year. He and his wife, Bertha spent summers camping at a campground after their retirement, where they made many new friends. He loved old Western movies and was a big fan of early Country music. Dave was a simple, unassuming man, always proud of his Kentucky roots.
David leaves to cherish his memory a daughter, Debbie (Paul) Fugate of Rives Junction, grandchildren: Paul Fugate II, Elizabeth Schug, Jessa Fugate, Nicholas Fugate, Angellika Whipple, 12 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren, and several extended family and friends.
A visitation for David will be held Monday, October 16, 2023, at 10:30 AM at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 AM, 811 Finley Dr, Albion, Michigan 49224.
David will be laid to rest at Fort Custer National Cemetery with his late wife, Bertha Branham following services at 2:00 PM, October 16, 2023, 15501 Dickman Rd., Augusta, MI 49012.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to send memorials to the Battle Creek VA in David’s memory. Checks should be made payable to: Battle Creek VA Medical Center and mailed to Community and Volunteer Service (135), 5500 Armstrong Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037.
