Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Branislav "Brano" Stankovsky
Branislav "Brano" Stankovsky
Obituary
Guest Book
Branislav Stankovsky Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Diane Bradley
April 24, 2024
My favorite memories of Brano include his calm demeanor, his ability to listen attentively, his great sense of humor, and most importantly, his sensitivity to all especially when you made a mistake. Brano had a presence of being a man's man who could "coach" others kindly and expertly. Again, I reiterate that our world lost the best man I have ever met other than my Dad. I miss our friendship so often.
Leah Kinnaird
April 20, 2024
I continue to think about Brano and cherish the memories on a pretty regular, everyday basis. In fact, I'm on a dragon boat team, and the coach's name is Paolo. I've had to explain to Paolo that sometimes I call him "Brano" because he reminds me of the best coach I ever knew. I'll be telling my husband, Gene, about Paolo but refer to him as Brano. Gene has to remind me that you said, "Brano" again. I guess I'll do this all my life.
Diane Bradley
April 23, 2023
The 24th of April 2012 was a very sad day. Many of us lost a coworker and a great friend who taught us many things and made us laugh as well. I, personally, think about Brano with fond memories. He was taken too soon, yet he impacted so many lives in his short stint in this world. Miss you greatly, my friend.
Chris Bjork
April 24, 2022
It has been 10 years my friend. I still tell stories about my time working with you and your impact on our business and me as a professional. I wouldn't have gotten anything related to budget, P&L, etc. But more than that, you gave me advice about how to show up for a marriage and how to be a parent. You continue to set an example to those who remember and love you. Hold a seat on the bench for the rest of us Gago.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Shirley Ruch
April 21, 2021
What a privilege and a joy to have known Brano as colleague, friend & mentor.
He brought great skill, tons of common sense , compassion and delightful humor to both his coworkers and his clients at CHCM. Brano is forever appreciated and greatly missed.
Shirley Ruch
Leah Kinnaird
April 20, 2021
Brano was an inspiration to me at CHCM. He could handle all situations with grace, wisdom, and a terrific sense of humor. I think of him often and continue to imagine him in meetings and coaching us for our work...yes, coaching on the job just like in hockey. It was great fun to work with him. With all of you, I feel the loss even to this day.
Diane Bradley
April 20, 2021
Almost 9 years have passed since we said farewell to Brano. Clearly, his passing has left a void for many. I think of him frequently and have fond memories of his sense of humor, his contagious smile, his honesty and his inspiration. The world lost a special man on April 26, 2012.
Mitchell Halicki
July 27, 2019
Brano was a close friend at Immaculate Conception School in Chicago (class of '69). He was a great friend and an example for all of us. It is great that he touched so many lives, over the years, as he did to those of us who knew him, at the time. I remember playing hockey in his frozen backyard. Peace and prayers to Brano and his family.
April 22, 2013
What a great tribute the Blake girls gave Brano with their win at State. Way to go ! Best Wishes to all, Leo Collins
Mari Marson
February 22, 2013
My deepest condolences to the entire Stankovsky family. I just learned of Brano's passing today during the Minnesota Girl's State High School Hockey Tournament and am very saddened. Brano and I worked together during our college days at the Hunt ice hockey arena at UW-River Falls. What a great guy he was--charismatic, fun, larger than life. He would give the shirt off his back to anybody. I'll always remember how kind, friendly and big-brotherly he was to all of the little rink rat kids who hung out at the arena. He was a great athlete that they all looked up to. At the time, I was the only young lady to work at the hockey arena and it was Brano who patiently taught me how to drive the Zamboni. Thanks to Brano's expert tips and tricks, I never crashed the Zamboni blade into the kicker panel. Brano was very proud of his family, his Czechoslovakian roots, and his hero, his dad. He often talked about his dad who was a very talented graphic designer. To this day, I still have an embroidered team jersey emblem that Brano gave me. His father designed this “Nordiques” emblem for a Chicago hockey team in the seventies. Knowing that I was exploring a career in graphic design, Brano hoped that I would use it as inspiration. Brano's generous spirit will truly missed by all who knew him.
Eric Schuman
November 29, 2012
I just saw the notice of Brano's passing in the River Falls Falcon Features. Brano and I played hockey together at UWRF in 1978, 79, & 80. We first met as counselors one summer at the UWRF hockey camp. I also met Ollie too and we all had a gas together. I was truly shocked when I learned of his passing. He was a fun loving guy who cared about people! Though I hadn't been in contact lately with Brano, I will never forget him.
Cindy (Clay) Crouse
November 28, 2012
I was friends with Ollie in high school (we went to Senior Prom) and just happened to learn of Brano's passing in the Taft Alumni Newsletter. Although it's been decades since I've seen either of them, I remember Brano as an amazingly fun, charming, and special person. I confess I had a little crush on him - he was not just good looking, but he had a great sense of humor. I remember a Halloween costume party where he and his date were dressed as natives - not many guys would have the confidence or desire to do so. I was fortunate to see him play hockey (he was incredible) and to skate with him and Ollie for fun. While I don't personally know the rest of you, his family, I'd like to send my sincerest condolences on your huge loss. He was far too young, and I feel for all of you. The world has lost a bright spirit.
Paul Anderson
November 20, 2012
I knew Brano (Number 17 !!!)in Chicago growing up playing hockey with his younger brother, Oliver. Sad to hear of his passing.
Anne & John Randolph
November 9, 2012
As the 2012-13 hockey season begins there is excitement and anticipation for the beginning of a new season....there is also a void! Brano and his ever impressive presence is missing! The girls will have traditions and memories from their beloved Brano forever in the locker room! Change in inevitable but traditions and memories are essential and will be in their hearts forever! NEVER LOSE THE MAGIC!!
Bob Korbus
August 17, 2012
I played rat hockey with him in high school once. I remember how good he was. He gently checked me into the boards with a broad smile on his face! I could sense the power under his control. I'm sorry to hear of his passing.
May 23, 2012
Oh Margaret, I just learned of Brano's passing as I had been away at the time. I am so sorry for the enormous loss your entire family must be feeling. Brano was an incredible example of humanity and a dear person. Love and prayers to you all.
The Chorley Family.
Leo Collins
April 30, 2012
Dear Brano's Family, The service for Brano really gave us a great insight into "The Man and The Legend" My son was honored to have the chance to call him coach. He will be greatly missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Sincerely, Leo Collins and Family
Andrea Butterfield
April 29, 2012
Our heartfelt hugs reach out to your family. Brano's memory will coninue to live on in every arena with all of the smiles he brought to each and every person he coached, those people's lives he touched and the fabulous family he has. I'm at a loss for words, I'm in shock. Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Smiles and many hugs.
John Traxler
April 28, 2012
I felt the loss roll across many fields.
There was disbelief, shock and sadness.
Larger than life? Guess not. Not this time.
That smile? Lost!
That laugh? Gone!
But, memories and lessons of Brano Stankovsky remain; not to be forgotten.
The seeds of life that you planted have taken root.
You did well!
Katy Rogers
April 28, 2012
I referee, and always tried to pick up the Blake girls high school games because of him, he was one of the best coaches to have on a bench. He knew the game better than most! My prayers go to his family.
April 28, 2012
Margaret and family members our thoughts and prayers are with you he was a wonderful person and we will keep you in our prayers daily.
Kenny & Barb Schmitz and Girls
Kati Lovaas
April 28, 2012
Brano's girls will forever skate faster, shoot harder, play smarter, and give more to the game of hockey because they had the great fortune of playing for him. Brano taught the girls about hockey and even more about life. Thank you. The Lovaas family extends its deepest condolences.
John Bellinger
April 28, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers to Brano's family and friends, we're so sorry for your loss. I had the good fortune to have known Brano for many years now; such a wonderful, caring, and humorous person, truly an inspiration. With deepest sympathy, John Bellinger and family.
Thank you, Santa. We'll miss you terribly.
The Mithun and Kahler Families
April 28, 2012
Bryan Carlson
April 28, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to family, friends, current and past hockey players and all who were touched by Brano. After coaching against Brano and retiring from coaching there was only one man that could talk me into coaching again. In the one year of coaching with Brano I learned a lot about coaching hockey, but it was always much more than that. It was about having an impact on the life of the young ladies he coached. For Brano it wasn't about winning, but how you handled yourself. Brano, thank you for sharing your life with me! If was an honor to work beside you! You will be missed but never forgotten!
Connie Burgess
April 27, 2012
Several years ago we started our nurse health coaching business in South Dakota. Brano was there guiding and cheering us on. Then and throughout the next 12 years he offered nothing but respect, exqusite and critical advice and empowered all to be successful. Among our nurses and staff Brano was known as one of the Really Good Guys. He will be remembered as a caring, giving friend with a smile in his voice and a great grin on his face.
Ashly Bacon
April 27, 2012
I always admired Brano. I played hockey at Blake for fun on the JV team, but he still made me feel like I was part of the whole Blake girls hockey community. What a guy, really! He will be missed terribly and it will be most difficult to fill his shoes. He was not only an inspiring coach, but an inspiring man!
-Ashly Bacon
Kris Butterfield
April 27, 2012
His magic will never be forgotten. Brano touched so many & we're all blessed for that. Molly, as your favorite babysitter...my heart is with you! Margret...you're courageous spirit will carry you through this! You're all in my thoughts!
Rick Johns
April 27, 2012
Brano Stankovsky was one of the finest coaches and incredible men that I have ever had the pleasure to work with. His passing is a great loss to the Minnesota Hockey Community and especially those from Blake who will forever remember his warm smiling face. Thanks for being who you were, a gift to all of of us mere mortals. Godspeed Brano!
Sarah Plotnik (Brown)
April 26, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you Margret, Ang, Trevor and Molly. The world has lost a beautiful man...
Dan Gullickson
April 26, 2012
Brano will go down as one of the best coaches I have ever coached against. I feel for his family and his hockey family. Brano was a true inspiration for a lot of hockey players. Not only from Blake but from all over the state. He will be missed but never forgotten!
Scott Kennedy
April 26, 2012
Brano, you left us way too soon. We are going to miss you always and forever.
April 26, 2012
Brano was like a member of our family, as another grandfather, a mentor and more. He left an indelible mark on our Chute granddaughters and other Blake hockey team members. They were fortunate to have him in their lives. He will be treasured in their memories. For all he coached he instilled in them a love for the game, hard work, sportsmanship and team spirit. Our deepest sympathy is with Margret and his family. Margie and Pete Ankeny
April 26, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Brano's family. We had the pleasure to work with him at Blake for many years. We are blessed to have known him.
Tom and Kelli Wever
Stephanie Smith
April 26, 2012
Even though I never met Brano, I heard about him many times through Colleen. My condolences to you all.
Diane Bradley
April 26, 2012
As a colleague at CHCM, I enjoyed conversations with Brano even after leaving the company. Brano's insight, calmness, humility and humor was an inspiration to me personally. I joined CHCM because Brano made such a positive impression on me. Words cannot express how much I will miss him. My sympathy to Margret and family.
Craig and Amy Johnson
April 26, 2012
The pain we feel in our heart, only confirms how influential and special Brano was as our daughter's hockey coach. Our deepest sympathies and prayers of comfort are with his family. Please know our daughter will be inspired by Brano's supportive coaching and leadership throughout her life.
April 26, 2012
Margret and family, words cannot express our sympathies. Brano was such a delight with his all glowing smile and sense of humor. The Orono boys hockey "back in the day" benefited from his kind and gentle manner as well as experience and guidance. They all looked up to him with reverance. God bless Brano and keep him safe.
May your memories bring you peace and comfort. We'll keep you in our prayers.
Loren & Pat Butterfield
Bob Ottman
April 26, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to Brano's family and countless amount of friends. It was a pleasure working with Brano at Blake and just knowing him as a friend was fantastic, there will always be great memories.
The Ottman family Golden Valley
April 26, 2012
Brano's passing is a loss to humanity. He exemplified class, sportsmanship, and ethics as a coach and an administrator. While he developed skills and competitive spririt with his athletes, he also promoted good citizenship. He will be missed by all. I am proud to have had the privilege of having him as a friend, colleague, and coaching opponent. Denny Malarkey(Coon Rapids, MN)
April 26, 2012
With sincere sympathy, thinking of you & hope you find comfort in special memories. Brano was our boys Orono youth hockey coach & loved by all.
Patti Benedict
Jami Anderson
April 26, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone touched by Brano. He was a wonderful man with all the attributes we aspire to. I'm honored to have had the opportunity to coach with Brano and will forever carry memories of his kindness, wit and penchant for a good joke.
April 26, 2012
Our deepest condolences to Margret ,Molly and the rest of the family. Brano wil be deeply missed. He had such a positive affirming way about him. He served as an advocate for many hockey players not just his own team. In winning or loosing always a gentleman and rollmodel. We were privileged to know him.
Marc, Beth and Ellen Swiontkowski
April 26, 2012
Dear Margaret, We are so sorry for your loss.
Kathy & Wever Weed
Ted Cheesebrough
April 26, 2012
As a fellow hockey coach, it was wonderful knowing and competing against Brano. He was compassionate and personable, yet still tough. A genuine and sincere person, he will be missed. Condolences to Brano's family. I feel fortunate to have had him in my life for the past 10+ years.
Claire Stokes
April 26, 2012
My deepest sympathies to all who knew Brano. I had the privilege of knowing him through his work at CHCM, and via hockey. The community has been so blessed by his time with us. I know we will all carry him in our memories and prayers for a long, long time.
Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results
1220 Wayzata Blvd East, Wayzata, MN 55391
Make a Donation
in Branislav Stankovsky's name
How to support Branislav's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Branislav Stankovsky's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
