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Michael Brannan Obituary
Michael passed away at Stanford Hospital with his family by his side at on Tuesday, January 8, 2013 from complications of kidney cancer.
Michael was born in Salinas California and became an accomplished golfer. His main golf accomplishments include: 1971 USGA Junior Amateur Champion, selected member of the 1977 Walker Cup Team and the US Collegiate All-Star Team and two-time California State Amateur Champion. He attended Brigham Young University and was a member of the BYU golf team from 1974-1978.
He played the PGA Tour from 1979-1983. In 1979, he won the Hassan II Golf Trophy, Rabat Morocco which is now a European Tour event. In 1983 he joined PING, INC working as a sales representative in Connecticut and later in Northern California. He was inducted into the BYU Hall of Fame in 1989 and into the California Golf Writers Hall of Fame in 2004. Even after being diagnosed with kidney cancer in May 2011, he continued playing in amateur events and won the 2012 NCGA Senior Championship.
During the 1975 British Open in Scotland, he met his wife Shelley. Along with being a loving husband, he was a devoted father to his two sons, Kyle of Cameron Park and Chase of San Francisco. Even though he was an accomplished golfer, he considered his sons his best accomplishment in his life.
Michael leaves behind his father Jerry, his mother Joan of Salinas, his brother Gary of Stockton, three nephews Major Dereck Wilson of West Point, New York, Sean and Jared Brannan of Sacramento, sister in-law Karen Wilson Flagstaff, Arizona and mother in-law Patricia Ross of Tempe, Arizona. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him and knew him.
A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 18, 2013 at San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church 902 Danville Blvd, Alamo, California at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Michael's memory to the NCGA Foundation PO Box NCGA, 3200 Lopez Road, Pebble Beach, CA 93953 or www.NCGAfoundation.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Clint Gibson
January 6, 2025
While most friendship get togethers with dear Mike involved golf, I will share a fun dinner experience and great memory. I visited him and Shelley up in Walnut Creek. We went to Danville's Bridges restaurant which I did not know since I had never been in that area of California before. When we entered I asked Mike "why does this place seem familiar?" He gave a big smile saying it was where the scene for the movie Mrs. Doubtfire was filmed. I laughed. Another great memory for being with Mike whom I miss very much!
David Nevatt
January 5, 2025
Miss your gentle warmth and humor. You were an inspiration to all who met you and all my fond memories of golfing in Nor Cal always include you. If there is a Cypress Point in Heaven, I´m certain you are an honorary member!
David Vivolo
January 5, 2025
I grew up with Mike in Salinas and we were rivals in baseball and golf- although in golf I couldn´t keep up with him. Anyone who would hit balls in a net at night after practicing all day was a force to be reckoned with, and he certainly was to all the world. There was a very kind and generous side to Mike that was apparent, even at a young age. Later on in life he was my Ping Rep and he was absolutely the best. I love seeing his generous smile again. Love you Mike!
Clint Gibson
January 5, 2023
I am pleased to offer yet another loving memory of my great friend. I invited him to be my guest at Paradise Valley Country Club. As we were walking with a caddie on the 9th hole he kindly shared with me that Golf Digest named him as one of the 5 best American amateur golfers. I thought that was spectacular. But then, Michael was a spectacular husband, father, friend, and golfer. I really miss him! Clint Gibson
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Clint Gibson
January 5, 2022
Michael was most importantly a wonderful husband and father. For golf, he was the ultimate gentleman and game ambassador. I always felt that he could be a Ryder Cup host as a steward of the game. He is greatly missed!
Steven Landi
January 5, 2021
Mike was always a class act..God bless.
Clint Gibson
January 5, 2021
You asked for another memory besides what I shared last anniversary. I so treasured flying up to Walnut Creek to see Mike, Shelley, and the boys. That was special in itself. My fun memory was Mike graciously invited me to play at Olympic, the US Open course, but we had to cross the Oakland Bay Bridge by 5:30 or he said it would have taken hours to get across. We came to this really narrow toll booth where a young lady listening to a SONY Walkman was able to spin around quickly and collect tolls from the driver's window in one lane and from the passenger's window in the opposite lane. Meanwhile, she was singing to the music! I asked Mike "is there any way we could get that excited about our work, especially at 5:30 AM?" Mike just laughed and said she was the most self-motivated worker he'd ever seen. I agreed. My, I miss Mike:)
john gilkison
January 5, 2021
Mike...A true Professional and a great guy. We had many lunches together and fun talks about golf. We miss you Mike and your great smile. God Bless your family.
Jason Kanis
January 5, 2021
Still miss you very much Mike. The subtle ness by which you mentored was exceptional. Selfishly I wish, I wish I had more time to learn and appreciate you. I’m sure I’m not alone there.
Clint Gibson
January 5, 2020
I shared great memories when I visited with Shelley. I think of Mike whenever I am by the PING Works, when I read Golf Digest and recall the article about Mike's being one of the best 5 amateurs, and when I go to a certain Scottsdale restaurant where Mike and I would meet to visit. I miss him very much.
Shelley
September 20, 2013
Miss you! Love you, babe!
Rob Shaw
June 7, 2013
Mike was such a class act and great competitor.The last time i saw him,we teased each other about getting older and maintaining our desire to stay motivated in golf.I will miss his friendship,gentle nature,and huge heart.Rest in peace my friend and reserve a spot on the first tee for me.
Nancy Jackson
February 2, 2013
As a great friend of Shelley's since high school in Arizona, I was with her when she met Michael at a golf outing in Scotland in the mid 1970's. I remember Michael as a gentle and humble person with an easy laugh who adored Shelley. May wonderful memories comfort all of you at this most difficult time.
Doug Metzger
January 30, 2013
I lost track of Mike through the years after he left Arizona, and was stunned and deeply saddened upon reading of his passing in Golf World. Mike was filled with honor, class, and kindness, and will be missed by all who crossed his path throughout the years. Truly one of the finest people I have ever met. My thoughts and prayers go out to Shelly, Kyle, and Chase.
January 30, 2013
Mike was the hardest working young golfer that I'd seen. Remember him practicing..the only one..in the rain at the NCGA Jr at Lake Merced. It paid off. Was there when he chipped on the 37th hole to defeat Dick Runkle (who left us the same week) in the '73 CA Am. Mike never had a silver spoon. He was special, more off the course.
rrr
Wayne Mosher
January 29, 2013
Fair winds and following seas Mike.
Dave Vivolo
January 27, 2013
I grew up with Mike. As the days go by, I find myself reminiscing about our youth and really missing his visits to our shop. He was not only a champion as a player, but a champion to everyone he met. Kind, sincere, playful, talented, and disciplined. We lost a one of a kind guy. RIP my friend. Dave Vivolo
Mark Bernard
January 27, 2013
An amazing player and an even more amazing man. RIP Michael.
Bobby Clampett
January 27, 2013
There was a very good reason Coach Tucker always placed you as my room mate for all BYU tournaments during my Freshman year. You were the only one who could handle me! You were a great man and a great friend. I miss you!
Jeff Rhodenbaugh
January 27, 2013
Mike was always an example to his peers in golf, life & family. Will never forget the memories of our trip to Scotland with Mike, Gary & our dads. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Jeff & Rosemary
Mark Rivera
January 26, 2013
I can still remember our Little league days competing for Home Runs on the Continental Little League diamond for bragging right at Kamman Elementary School.You were a competitor which you took on to your amazing golf career... Everytime I drive by the field I always think about our friendly rivalry and smile. Now when I drive by the field I will think of you... You will always be apart of Continental Little League Baseball.
Jeff Blanc
January 23, 2013
You were a shining star and one of the neatest guys I have ever met. I would have never been able to Play Pebble if not for you. I will always cherish my Ping clubs that you got for me. I will think of you each time I pick them up. From an old football player who loved golf because of you! Thanks for the good time Mike. Always Jeff Blanc
January 21, 2013
We love you. We are saddened by the loss of a wonderful, humble man, who had so much to be proud of. Shelly, Kyle and Chase we are praying for you. With love and prayers, Dan and Jan Jock
Patti Morison-Holmes
January 21, 2013
You've been in my thoughts and prayers daily. From reading others' entries, it looks like Michael left a wonderful legacy for all that had the pleasure of knowing him if even for a moment. I am so glad that Karen and your mom were there and then joined by more Wilsons. Hope to cross paths one day. Love and peace to you and your sons.
Neil Duffy
January 21, 2013
Two words synomomous when speaking about Mike were "gentleman" and "class". The man exhuded both. He will be missed dearly. I was a much better person for knowing him.
Kurt Posey
January 19, 2013
No one prepared for important junior tournaments like Mike would. Everyone rolled into town a couple of days early, while Mike had been there working hard for at least a week.
Congratulations Mike on a life well lived. When you tee it up with Brian and Sally P., please give them a huge hug for me.
Bless your family and friends.
Brian Morgan
January 18, 2013
Mike was a true Gentleman and the consummate Professional .He will be missed by all those lucky enough to have spend anytime with him. My thoughts and prayers go out to Family and friends.
Holly Kirkpatrick
January 18, 2013
Mike was the best of the best! I am grateful for Mike's friendship to my family and extend my deepest condolences to his family.
Rex&B.j Denham
January 17, 2013
Michael was loved by everyone he knew. He was not only a great golfer he was a great friend. Our prayers go out to Shelley Kyle and Chase Such a shame
January 17, 2013
i will never for get mike taking us to golf practice for north Salinas high school at Salinas golf and country club in his gold amx he was always kind to me, blessing to all of mike family from Jim and Diana Adams
Jason 'JK' Kanis
January 17, 2013
To a great friend, mentor and supporter. You were always the gentleman I strove to be. Thank you Shelley, Kyle and Chase for sharing him with us all; and I pray for peace and healing for you.
Michael Lauritson
January 17, 2013
ON behalf of the Jim Dolan extended family, we are very sorry to hear this news. For his Salinas family, Mike gave us all a thrill when we followed him through all his great golfing acheivements here in Salinas and California !! But we loved his own comment the best, when he said his greatest acheivement was his beautiful wife and two children ....His Irish Eyes were truly always Smilin' !!! He made Peter Dolan proud.
Michael Lauritson
Tom Squires
January 16, 2013
Michael was a true professional, friend and mentor. I will always treasure the round of golf we played together at Pebble Beach and the personal tour he gave me of the course. My prayers go out to his family. RIP Michael
rita gary adam lauren kowalski
January 16, 2013
to shelley kyle and chase- we are sorry to hear of the loss. however we all have great memories of being with and talking to mike which will always remain. i was with adam in portland last night and he mentioned how fond he was of mike. he always treated us with friendship and kindness. rip
Darryl Draper
January 15, 2013
Michael is one of those guys once you met him, you never forgot him.
Heidi Park
January 15, 2013
To Joan, Jerry, Gary and Michael's Family~
I think of Michael with such great kindness and warmth. As a young childhood friend he will always be cherished so deeply. I wish you peace at this sorrowful time.
Jerry Dodd
January 15, 2013
RIP buddy....... no more pain.....
Ken Towns
January 15, 2013
January 15,
What a fine fellow. Your family will miss you the most, but we golfers will
remember your golf deeds and frienship
forever.
Rick, Renee` and Ross Mencarelli
January 15, 2013
Our hearts are heavy, but our memories are with a smile!! Mike was always ready to help out at MVHS (there were so many great things that he did....but field watch comes to mind, making sure our fields were protected even if it was until the wee hours...and with him his beloved Dog to help keep watch!!)His great smile will be missed! Our thoughts and prayers are with Shelley, Kyle and Chase!!
Jesse Ortiz
January 15, 2013
My prayers go out to Mike's family. He was a kind, humble gentleman with a huge heart. Admired, loved and repected by all of us who knew him, especially those of us in the golf industry who witnessed his dedication and contributions to the game. May God bless him and the Brannan family.
Clint Gibson
January 15, 2013
Mike was a treasured friend for decades. We played some very special golf together in Phoenix, at Olympic, at San Francisco golf, and then would go watch the Giants beat the Cubs. We had wonderful visits with Shelley too, including at the restaurant where the movie Mrs. Doubtfire was filmed. I shall forever be blessed to have known and shared great times with such a wonderful man. He will be missed.
John Theilade
January 15, 2013
While playing golf in college, it became clear that Mike was very very good player. As a Ping rep he was always very helpful and well respected, as a person he was a great family man and friend. Mike, you will be truly missed. God bless you and your family.
Michael Reed
January 15, 2013
My condolenses to the Brannan Family. I always enjoyed working with Mike. He is one of the best of us and will be missed!
Michael Rubio, PGA
January 15, 2013
..a fierce competitor. My deepest condolences to the Brannan family.
January 15, 2013
I remember Mike fondly. I always enjoyed working with him through the years. My condolences to the family.
Denise Bondurant
Kelly Wolfe
January 15, 2013
A truly good guy that will be missed by everyone that knew him. My thoughts and prayers go out for his wife and family. He was a wonderful person.
Jim Hosley
January 15, 2013
My thoughts and prays go out to Shelley, Kyle, Chase and the rest of Michael's family. He was a true gentleman and good friend. I will miss seeing him on his trips to the North Coast.
Tim & Jamie Loustalot
January 15, 2013
We miss you already!! Always accommodating and professional in every sense of the word. Golf has lost of of it's best. Thanks for everything you did for all of us here at DeLaveaga. Heartfelt sympathy to the Brannan family.
Bob Barro
January 15, 2013
My condolences to the Brannon family.Mike was a good friend and a good rep. Mike you will be missed. Your Friend Bob Barro
Frank Panetta PGA
January 14, 2013
Do to his high finish one year at the USGA Amateur he was invited to play in the Masters the next year...I'm happy he was able to come by to visit me a few months ago...I could tell he was trying to put on a good face about all this...And he did a great job conducting himself like a real man through this ordeal...Never complained when I would bring up his health...Strong willed...Strong golfer...Strong to the end of life...
Doug "Talley" Acton
January 14, 2013
A class act in every way, dominant as a player, graceful and humble...just a few of the things that come to mind. Lucky to have shared space with you Michael whenever our paths crossed, will remember your smile at the firepits at Spanish Bay most recently. Feel the love, you are so missed.
Steve Janisch
January 14, 2013
My prayers are with the Brannan family at this sad time. I knew Michael as a fellow NCPGA member and working with him and Ping at many of the clubs I worked at. He will be missed.
January 14, 2013
Mike was truly the Best. I enjoyed so much meeting on the road as we both serviced the same territory. I never considered Mike a competitor only a friend in the Golf Profession both of us earning a living. We to enjoyed many conversations about our years in the Connecticut PGA Section. Again we both had the same territory, he Ping and me Titleist. In our later years lunch with Bruce, John, Paul at McCovey's was fun. Won t be the same without Mike. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mike's family.
Johnny Gilkison
John Dummett
January 14, 2013
So sad to hear the news, my thoughts and prayers are with the family. Please let me know if there's anything I can do.
Steve Donner
January 14, 2013
My PING brother, you will be truly missed. You were not only a great golfer and sales rep, but a wonderful person who people enjoyed being around and I am privileged to have been your friend. Rest in Peace Michael. My sincerest condolences to Shelley, Kyle and Chase.
Dennis Campbell
January 14, 2013
I have memories of Mike from the early 1970s when he was dominating junior and amateur golf in Northern California. What a class act. He was the player to beat and brought up the level of play in Salinas. My condolences go out to Gary, Jerry and Joan. I got to see and talk to Mike at the 2012 Cotton and Bobs. What a beautiful golf swing!
Jamie Edman
January 14, 2013
My deepest condolences to Shelley and family. Some of my fondest memories are my time as a teammate of Mike at BYU. Long road trips in the van, with Mike at the wheel because he could drive all night, and great comaraderie as a team. He was a great competitor and a wonderful person. You will be missed Mike.
Steve Landi
January 14, 2013
To the family of Michael: Members of NCGA juniors
class of 74 Thoughts and prayers are with you.
David Nevatt
January 14, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to Shelley, Kyle and Chase along with Mike's entire family. Although Mike had a great talent as a golfer, he always made sure those around him felt welcome. No question his gentle nature was due partly to the love displayed by his mother, father and brother Gary. My most fond memories of Mike are when we stayed at each others homes during our junior golf days in Northern California. Rest in Peace Michael.
Steve Cavalli
January 13, 2013
My condolences to Shelley, Chase and Kyle. A kind and gentle man taken away much too early.
Jeff Sanders
January 13, 2013
Shelley, Kyle and Chase...
My love goes out to you today as you attempt to understand the tragic early loss of Michael, your beloved husband, mentor and father. Michael and I met 41 years ago at a junior golf event in Portland and became friends for life soon after. I have wonderful lifelong memories of my time with Michael both on and off the course of a friend and man who gave so much more to others than he was given in life. A man of integrity, kindness, generosity and loyalty at the highest level. I will miss his big smile and laugh. I am here for you today, tomorrow and forever. Just know that Michael is watching over you, he is safe and he is not afraid. My love to you.
Jeff Sanders
January 13, 2013
Michael Brannan my dear friend of 41 years leaves us for now with wonderful lifelong memories in our grasp. A man of integrity, loyalty, kindness and generosity at the very highest level. His loss is tragic and far too soon. I will miss Mikes big smile and laugh and cherish our time together both on and off the course along with all my great memories the rest of my life. Shelley, Chase and Kyle... I am here for you today, tomorrow and forever. May you find comfort and peace knowing Michael is safe and he isn't afraid. My love to you.
Coach Brannan... 9yr old SRV All-Star Team
Linda Greiner
January 13, 2013
Coach Brannan will forever be with us in our hearts.
Sending our love,
Linda, Dave, Doug and Kathleen
Shelley, Chase and Kyle---
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27
Jim Knoll
January 13, 2013
Arguably the greatest junior golfer ever from Northern California. A tremendous player and competitor, a man of great respect and integrity. Carried himself professionally at all times. On top of all that, a better person! I know he yearned to play more senior golf, very sad he did not get the chance. Condolences to his family!
Bill Finlay
January 13, 2013
I treasure the memories with Mike and family.
Patricia Cornett
January 12, 2013
I am so sorry to hear that mike has passed away at much too young of an age. I will always remember our practice time and playing together at SGCC. You inspired me to work hard and aim for the top. You have always been my hero.
Jacki Pope
January 12, 2013
Although our paths crossed only a few times each year.... I could always count on a friendly "hello" from you. God bless you and your family.
Kurt Kragthorpe
January 12, 2013
As a high school golfer in Provo, I was a huge admirer of the 1976 BYU golf team. What a collection of talent, and good guys as well.
Dan Goodwin
January 12, 2013
One of the good guys gone way to early. RIP Mike.
PAUL WILCOX
January 11, 2013
YOU WILL TRULY BE MISSED MY FRIEND.
Michael Kaufman
January 11, 2013
True gentlemen, consummate professional, the epitome of a friendly competitor. Mike never had a negative thing to say to anyone; I always looked forward to our paths crossing in the golf business. How I loved to watch him swing; softest hands ever. We will miss you, my friend.
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