Robert Branch Obituary

Robert James Branch

Cheboygan - 86, died peacefully Thursday, December 7, 2017 in the comfort of his home, at The Brook in Cheboygan, MI, following a stoke from five years previous.

He leaves his wife of 63 years, (Nancy Anne Meikle), his 2 daughters; Caroline Hart (Jim) and Pamela McMillan (John) and son, Paul Branch (Gina). Grandchildren; Christopher, Angela, Daniel, Erin, Matthew, Brittany, Jonathon and Emmanuel.

Robert was born and raised in Port Huron, the son of Irving & Angeline Branch (Robbins). He started his career as a Tool and Die Maker and soon after as an engineer for General Motors. He received his Associates degree from Macomb Community College and retired from General Motors as a Cad Cam Specialist. Robert was also well known as a Bass Soloist. He sang for many churches over the years; Court Street Methodist Church (Flint), Central Methodist Church (Detroit) and Royal Oak Congregational Church. He was also an active soloist for the Detroit Cantata Academy, which performed at countless events and around the world. In addition, Robert was known for performing as a lead in many operas; Barber of Seville, South Pacific. When Robert was not singing, or working as an engineer, he was an avid sailor with his family and friends. He was the navigator for several Port Huron to Mackinaw Races, as well as many competitions with the St. Clair Yacht Club.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Royal Oak Congregational Church on January 6, 2018 at 11 AM. Donations for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Hunters Helping Hunters will be accepted in lieu of flowers.

Published by The Detroit News & Detroit Free Press on Dec. 17, 2017.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Branch

Not sure what to say?





Bob sailed with me on many Port Huron Mac's, and a bunch of other races as our navigator and helmsman. He and Nancy were good friends to my family on many North Channel Cruises (they once towed us from the Benjamin's to Little Current)! He was a Past Commodore of Albatross Yacht Club and a long time ABYRC racer (Vivace!).

I also had the pleasure of working with Bob at GM.

He'll be missed by all who knew him.

Sail on Bob, we'll see you on the other side some day.

Jim Sorbie

December 20, 2017

Jim Sorbie

December 20, 2017

Jim Sorbie

December 20, 2017

Jim Sorbie

December 20, 2017

Jim Sorbie

December 20, 2017

Jim Sorbie

December 20, 2017

I had the good fortune to work for Bob at General Motors, as well as crew for him aboard Vivace, and crew along side him on Peregrine. Many hours of his knowledge and guidance at work and at play will be cherished. Nothing better than hearing Bob yell "STARBOARD" on a close crossing, truly music to my ears. Please remember, like a sailboat that disappears over the horizon, one is not gone, just beyond our current vision, and we know we will see them again.

Michael Haist

December 19, 2017

I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Robert's family, sorry for your loss. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God is thinking thoughts of peace towards us, to give us a future and a hope, may that bring you comfort in this time of sorrow.

December 17, 2017

Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results

Make a Donation
in Robert Branch's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Robert Branch

Jan

6

Celebration of Life

11:00 a.m.

Royal Oak Congregational Church

MI

How to support Robert's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished 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
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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 more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
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 more
Ways to honor Robert Branch's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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