You were my Best Boy and my joy.  You were the Orange of our dynamic trio.  I miss you everyday and I see your smiling face each day but the pain of losing you never stops.  Now our Apple has joined you and the pain doubles.  My beautiful Angels gone 
much too soon.  You and Nyia were inseparable here maybe you’ll be together again now.  Two Beautiful Angels in heaven watching over us.  Nana

hello, my name is alysa rodriguez. i was branden's best friend in elementary school, we went to the same elementary school and middle school. i moved on branden's street in the 4th grade, nobody welcomed me as much as branden, he was the sweetest kid in the entire school. he would crack jokes that can fill the room with laughter, nobody cared about me and my well being more then branden. we would nerd out about different superheroes trying to figure out who was better(DC or Marvel). we had slowly drifted apart when we got to middle school(when covid happened) i miss him and i still celebrate his birthday i spend his birthdays thinking of him and just remembering all the nerdy jokes that only we understand. i regret not checking up on him and i blame myself for not seeing the signs in time. im sorry. i love you branden... 

I miss you so much, I remember in gym class you would always hang out with me during kick ball because I was so scared to get hit. Another memory is when we were walking in the hallway together and you sneezed in my face it was pretty funny. I think about you everyday. I miss you. 

Your on my mind, heart and soul!! Gio and CJ were going through an old camera and found  pictures of you and all of us on Christmas!! They made sure to save the pictures in their phones so they have a piece of you with them, just seeing your face brings instant joy and smiles! We all sat and reminisced about you and your mom and dad ❤️ You are missed and cherished sweet boy! Gio and CJ miss you and think/talk about you all the time! You are in all of our hearts ♥️ and that will never change! Love you B ♥️💕

Happy Birthday B!!! It still doesn’t seem real to us, we love you so much. Your forever ♾ in our hearts and minds. Watch over your parents sweet B ❤️ We love you so so so much

I don’t know why I didn’t do this sooner and for that I am sorry, I just couldn’t get myself to actually admit that he was gone but he was a good friend of mine and we would watch movies and hang out a lot. This one memory that stuck with me is a memory from 4th grade and we were sat next to each other and he was making jokes about everything it was so funny we couldn’t stop laughing, then we got in trouble by the teacher even after we were in trouble we kept laughing after that day I knew we were going to be good friends. Branden had such a funny personality that could put a smile on your face every day no matter what. I can safely say that he was loved greatly and will be missed greatly. 

Dear sweetest Brandon,

Thank you for being a great friend to my son and daughter. You were one of the funniest kid I have known, always respectful and smart. I received the news while I was in Bootcamp and I am lost for words to hear about this tragedy, my heart is aching for your family and friends. I am sending many hugs and love, may they find comfort and peace. You are dearly missed, always in our hearts.

Sandrine

Blessings dear people. I attended the virtual service yesterday, and wept along with all of you. As I have indicated, I am one of the counselors at Cavelero, and I feel deeply for students and families everywhere, especially those in our district. Even as I contemplate beginning retirement in July, I am committed to finding ways  to prevent the senseless loss of our beautiful young people and excruciating pain for the precious families left behind.
You are all in my prayers. Thank you for your generous sharing yesterday. I feel I came to know him a little bit. 
Much, much care, dale

I am the librarian at Branden's middle school.  Branden was an excellent reader who found joy in reading and enjoyed checking out books within the school library. Sometimes Branden and I would have little book conversations when he had finished a book and was returning it to the library.   I was always impressed at how well he articulated his thoughts and ideas about the books he read.  Within our short little book conversations I quickly learned that Branden was wise beyond his years. What an amazing young man he was. 

I'm so really sorry I couldn't be there to support you and the rest of the family in person.  Watching the ceremony to remember Branden was beautiful, and it gave me some stories about the kind of young man Branden was.  My deepest sympathies....  

My deepest condolences to the entire family. I am lost for words but words alone couldn’t heal the pain you are all experiencing. Just know that Branden was an amazing kid raised by the best. He will continue to be remembered in our hearts. 

Jennifer,
Michele and I are holding you tight in our hearts and sending you all our love. We are so sorry for your loss. Branden was a special young man. When he told me how much he loved to read, I knew he was a boy after my own heart. I wish we could be there with you in person today.
Love,
Lynn & Michele

Dear Jen, Randy & family, though I can’t be there today I’m on the live stream. You are in my heart and thoughts all the time, and will continue to be. I’m so very sorry you’ve experienced this loss. Love and prayers to you from the Mahoney family.

Jen   It’s Lindsay’s mommy again.   I can be your mommy too. Forever. I’m giving money to st Jude in HONOR of MY sweet grandson Branden. Yes he will always be mine also. You should have kept writing me honey. You left a huge space in my heart for you. My Lindsay’s strong but you know her hearts biggest. Rely on her. If she’s too young me. I’ll be your mommy anytime and treat you as my own. You were special for me. You left your mark. 

I had the honor and privilege of working with Branden for a short time as his first remote 7th grade science teacher. It was immediately obvious that he was special.  He was smart, funny and very kind.  So very kind and inclusive, he always knew which students needed to be acknowledged and might be struggling during remote learning.  I keep thinking about how Branden would be first one on the google meet, greet each student as they joined, contribute to class discussion while at the same time coordinating in the chat with friends a meet up in the neighborhood and completing the days assignment during the meet! An EXTRAORDINARY  young man! As a parent and grandparent my heart breaks for you. I send my deepest sympathy.

Branden  was in my 4th & 5th grade class. Love you kiddo. The love that people feel for you is something unchangeable. When we first met, you had a strong presence & a gleam in your eye. Your smile said let's be friends & that twinkle meant this is going to be a journey. I saw you at the 6th grade awards ceremony last year & snapped a picture. I smiled because you looked proud of yourself.  Flashback to 4th grade. You sat on our class couch, wrapped in a cozy blanket with a mug in hand guiding us through A Christmas Carol. What a perfect role for you. Narrating the script, keeping us all in track and sharing a giggle when your classmates performed. I also remember that Branden loved seeing cherry blossom trees in the spring and that touched my heart that a 9 year old would bring that up in conversation. Branden you were immeasurably smart & that has its own share of challenges seeing the world differently than others at times, but it is also special. Branden also had a witty sense of humor and loved funny people. No wonder you loved Garfield books so much. He was the the kind of kid I could share a raised eyebrow moment with when somebody did something off the wall in class & also someone who came up with ideas people may not have considered. Remember our fish, Blue? Branden voted to name it Boy Wonder. The rest of the class chose blue for a blue fish. Branden and I shared a raised eyebrow moment. :) For the record, I'd say hello to Boy Wonder every morning. 
Branden loved books. Give Branden a cozy spot & a book and this kid would read happily for as long as I'd let him. About the time Branden would be just finding that reading groove, 3/4 of the class would be climbing the walls & needing to use the bathroom for the third time so we'd have to move on. Branden was ticked and he would cry. I raised my eyebrows and said to myself, there he is. My soul student.  B we're going to plant your tree & dedicate a book shelf with your favorites at SC. Like K said-fly high. 

I had the honor and privilege to be Branden’s elective teacher last year. Branden would daily ask how I was doing and how my day was going. I appreciated our relationship. He was so easy to communicate and relate with. The kid always lit up my classroom with such positive energy. He had a will to succeed and help other students. He demonstrated incredible leadership and was such a joy to have around. Thoughts and prayers to family...he was one of a kind. 

Branden will be missed greatly by my family and I. I met Branden when I was his and Eli’s basketball coach for parks and rec.   When Branden was out on the basketball court he was all smiles.  My favorite memory is when Branden would score a basket his face would light up and he would look to his family in the gym and smile back at me. 

Branden and my son Eli became friends off the court also. We lived in the same neighborhood.    I will miss him coming by and hanging out with Eli.   He was one of those kids you didn’t worry about when he came to play. This has been hard for me in his passing.  I feel for his family and friends. I want you all know he meant something to my family.   Keep smiling Branden! 

I was blessed to get to know Branden when he was in 4th grade and I began working as a para at Sunnycrest. During this time, I worked to cover the 4th/5th  grade recess - Branden's recess. I can not remember how Branden and I came to be such buddies, but EVERYDAY at recess I would see him running towards me, wearing  his  slightly oversized sweatshirt and smile on his face. 
We talked most recesses about how he was going to join the service when he was older. He would always seem to come up with a new fact or reason why he was going to serve. I can still see the sparkle in his eyes and the smile he would get on his face when I brought up the military first or had found new information about planes to share with him. 
Branden was more than just my, recess buddy, but was someone who truly touched my heart! He was an AMAZING kiddo who was ALWAYS so kind to EVERYONE. He had a sweet and sensitive soul that needed a hug now and then and a joke to bring his wonderful smile back onto his face. 
When I transferred over to Stevens Creek the following year, I can not tell you how many times I thought about Branden at recess and I missed our talks. I have often wondered where  he is and how he is doing. I wish so badly I could of stayed in touch with him better after leaving Sunnycrest. 
When I heard this tragic news, I wanted to reach out to his family, to you, and give my condolences. I can instantly replay conversations Branden and I had shared and can remember how much I looked forward to hearing more about his dreams each day. I can remember just how much light he brought with him as he came running down - sometimes with his arms pulled halfway into his sweatshirt sleeves and flapping them like he was flying- towards me in the field. 
I have never forgotten about Branden, and I never will! He is one of those people who you could meet once and they  just leave a life - long presences in your heart. He is gone way too soon and my heart aches for you and your loss.  

Branden was such a kind, curious, and enthusiastic student. During online learning, Branden was an active participant in class, even helping his classmates with math problems when they needed it. He  was an exceptional student and classmate. He will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. 

I am so glad that I had the chance to get to know Branden. He was such a kind and enthusiastic student. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to others and his smile was contagious. He will be greatly missed by all. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

I had the pleasure and honor of having Brandon as a student since March. In such a short time, he allowed me the privilege of getting to know such an authentic, kindhearted, and giving young man. There is nothing more precious than the love and life of a child. As a parent, I send you my deepest sympathies. We all share in your loss, from those who knew Brandon and those who never will and do not know what they missed.

Branden was the sweetest young man, always had the best manners and was beyond helpful. He was a young scholar and just a blast to be around. I always enjoyed when he would read to me. I will miss his voice and smile. My sons were honored to be his friend. We were more like family and that won’t ever change. I remember one year doing the Halloween carnival at my sons school and taking Branden into the prize room and telling him he could have whatever he wanted. Most kids would want everything but not B, he picked wisely and cared about the other kids having prizes. Branden was the most caring, thoughtful and empathetic young man I’ve ever known. I enjoyed bragging and telling everyone he was my nephew. I will miss you forever my sweet B.. To my dear friends Jen and Randy know I’m with you and love you both more than any words could ever express. The universe has suffered a great loss. My love and prayers until we meet again buddy. All of our love, Aunt Lindsay, Giovanni and CJ❤️❤️❤️ This is the most difficult loss as the world lost an amazing young man. We just love you so much B. I could write about you forever and ever. You were sunshine on rainy/cloudy days. What me and the boys would do to have ice cream together. Just know you were loved beyond measure and we won’t ever forget the impact you had on our lives. I love you and will pray for strength for your family. We love you Branden ❤️♥️❤️♥️

I remember when we were in math one day and I told him this one joke and he laughed so hard we got in trouble for talking so we had to go to the teacher to tell her what we did and he stood up for me and told her that he said a joke and that it was his fault, and I never forgot that, he stood up for me so I wouldn't get in trouble, and I didn't realize how good a friend he was until he was gone and I beat myself up for that, I never thanked him for being there for me I never thanked him for sticking up for me to mean people, He was the bestest friend in the whole world and I let him go without getting to say goodbye, and I cry so hard I shake, I sob so loud, I'm so sad and depressed and my family doesn't get how sad I am for him.  I miss him like crazy,  think about him so much it's like he is here standing in front of me. He was so special Mrs.McKinnon, so special. You were so lucky to have him as a son. I am so sorry, I am grieving but not as much as his family. I give you my condolences. 

I did not know Branden, but I live in your neighborhood and also work for the school district.  I am so very sorry to hear about his passing.  It's a heartbreaking loss for your family and our community.  Please know you are in our prayers.  

My heart aches for your family.  What a precious son you raised. I have been one of the counselors at Cavelero since it opened,  and this year I am retiring after nearly 35 years. But I am very emotionally attached to this community, and for years into the future I will feel the sting of the loss of your beautiful son, so on track to make a wonderful difference in the world. Please know you will be in my prayers. Like you, I cannot make sense of this, and there is no quick or easy way to manage the pain. Love and much care to all of you.  

Branden was a good friend to my son Trevin and came over to hang out frequently. He was one of the first friends my son made when moving here. He was such a great kid and was always smiling. He was always so willing to help Trevin with his homework when he was struggling,  was the most respectful child I had ever met and was the kind of friend that you want your child to have. We were all very saddened to hear of Brandens passing- especially Trevin. They had been hanging out more recently and the news was very devastating for him, and for all of us. I just want you to know that your son was an amazing friend to my son. Trevin was very lucky to have had a friend like Branden.  I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts. 

Branden was a great person to hangout around with. He was in my challenge ELA last year, he was a bubbly person and made jokes that would make so many people smile. He and I shared some good times and memories, whether that'd be in ELA, lunch, or sometimes even running into each other trying to finish up technology work. What a time. My complete condolences to your family, and anybody who had grown a close bond with Branden. I'm incredibly sorry for your lost, he had the biggest heart, and he was a wonderful person in general. He'll truly be missed.

Branden was such a kind, thoughtful student. He worked hard and had so many ideas to share. The leadership students and I appreciated his enthusiasm. He wanted to help others and show his support to everyone, including staff. He was truly a leader. He will be deeply missed.

My sincere condolences for the loss of your dear son, Branden.  His diplomatic approach to learning demonstrated respect not just to the activity, but everyone involved. He was a unique and thoughtful  person, and will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family as you grieve this incredible loss. 

Branden was a wonderful student. He brought  such positivity to the group. He was thoughtful and honest. Branden had a way of making everyone feel comfortable, and his smile was infectious. We are all better for having shared in his company.  My heart goes out to your family. 

Brandon was a good friend to me, I met him when I was in 4th grade and we where good friends for the entirety of 4th grade and really close friends until I moved away in 6th grade, It broke my heart to hear that Brandon passed away knowing he was such a happy and nice kid he truly was a great friend. We had lots of good times together hanging out and I am very sorry to hear about his passing, fly high Brandon 

We just wanted to say we are so incredibly sorry for your families tremendous loss of Branden.  He was an amazing and gifted young man. We were so incredibly sad to hear about his death. May you find comfort innknowiWe are praying for you all and wish you love during this time and the road ahead. With love the Sorce Family 

I knew Branden through Leadership this year and honestly, he made it extremely enjoyable.  He had ideas that no one else had thought about and he made everyone feel welcome. I really didn't talk to him as much, but when I did, it was nice. I truly wish I talked to him more than I did. I didn't think I'd have to write this for someone in one of my classes, especially leadership. But, I am. And, I send all my condolences to his family and friends. <3

 he was sweet this kid was bullying my friend and he made him stop 

Jen god bless. Your sweetness touched me so strong when you wrote to me in New Jersey. It’s Lindsay’s mom.  You told me your life and I wish u are MY daughter. MY daughter is u my sweet child   TIME and god give you memories that make you smile non stop. I do dearly love you. Lindsay give u my number anytime u need it. I have quite a few people who have deaths like this. GOD has your son. I love you and yours. Mary Lindsay’s mommy

He had this amazing smile when he walked into a room he smiled at me and I was so happy and joyful, I really enjoyed his company and I miss him like crazy I miss his smile the most, his, kind heart, and his math skills. lol, I give you my deepest condolences to your son(My friend) he was a better friend than anyone I knew. 

I'm so sorry for your loss, your families' are in my heart and prayers. He was such a sweet, sensitive child. 

Brandon was my friend in 6th grade when we had math 4th period in 2019-2020 He was so kind and a true friend every time I needed help with math he would help me work out a problem and It was nice when I heard that he has passed I was so sad I felt a need to give my condolences to you "his family" I am very sorry for your loss, I am in great pain but not as much as his family who loved him so I pray that he has a happy life up in heaven and I sometimes talk to him in my prayers (Not actually talk to him just sending him little messages and also talking to god) I miss him so much and I feel terrible about your loss.  He was a better friend than my besties, and I cry so much about him that it makes me sad, and don't know why his time had to end so soon. 

OBITUARY

Branden Dion McKinnon

November 8, 2008 – May 19, 2021

Bauer Funeral Chapel

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