Lucille Catherine Branson

Lucille was born in Coleville, Washington to William Flugel and Mattie Towne on 7/31/1926, where she grew up in a one room house with her father and sister. In 1943 in Oakland at McFadden’s Dance Hall, 17-year-old Lucille met her lifelong partner, Jack Branson, also known as Papa. Two short weeks after meeting, Jack proposed to Lucille in a small boat on a lake in Oakland. They were married a few days later, on February 14th, 1943 in Reno NV. Two weeks after marriage Jack was drafted into the service. They wasted no time, when Jack returned from overseas, he was greeted not only by Lucille but also their first daughter Charlene. Jack and Lucille settled in the Bay area and went on to have two more daughters, Jackie and Judy. Lucille worked at National Can, in Hayward CA. Jack was able to retire early due to a back injury. Lucille quickly left her job of 15 year. Jack and Lucille then pursued their retirement dream and purchased a place on Lake McClure, in central California. It was here that Lucille enjoyed hosting family and neighborhood parties. Jack and Lucille never hesitated to take their grandkids and great grandkids and keep them at the lake all summer long, creating many lasting memories. When they were not hosting at their lake house Jack and Lucille loved to travel. They took many trips around the U.S., pulling a travel trailer with Lucille’s beloved 1978 Ford Bronco. As they got older, traveling got harder, then they discovered cruise ships. They have been on over 15 cruises around the world. As they aged, they moved to Mesa, Arizona to settle closer to family. It was here, Jack and Lucille welcomed their first great great granddaughter. Something neither of them thought they would ever live to see. Jack passed away shortly after in 2008. Lucille went on to witness many more great great grandchildren. Lucille loved country music, traveling, playing hand and foot, dancing, and most of all, her family. She as witty, loving, honest, strong, and stubborn in the best way possible. Lucille loved tasting good wine and toasting to those around her with a “Here’s To Ya”. She is survived by her three daughters, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. She had an abundant life full of love and memories and she will forever be missed.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mariposagardens.com for the Branson family.