H. Hugh Branson

H. Hugh Branson April 2, 1920 - April 9, 2007 H. Hugh Branson was born April 2, 1920 in Collbran, Colorado and lived in the area most of his entire life. Hugh is survived by his wife of 48 years, Rose Branson, his sister, Velma Bartlemay-Branson, his five sons Larry Branson, Ed Branson and his wife, Susan, Darrell Branson, Daniel York and his wife, Becky, Dale York and his wife, Cindy, 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He is also survived by the mother of his three oldest sons, Daphne Sanders. He is preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Florence Branson, his brothers Howard and Lee, and his son David York. As a young man, Hugh worked in the lumber mill in Washington and married his first wife. From that union three sons were born. He was drafted to the military in 1941. During WWII, he served as Military Police for the US Army attached to the 8th Air Force. He shared many stories of the adventures he had riding his Harley through the European Theatre. He was nominated for the most patriotic soldier award during his service. Returning home from the military, Hugh worked as a bee-keeper in Grand Junction. He furthered his education attending Barber College in Salt Lake City. He managed a barber shop in Grand Junction and Collbran for several years. In 1959, Hugh married is second wife, Rose York, making this a family of six rowdy sons. They leased a creamery business, before building the Branson Drive-In in 1965. Their business become a local favorite with their famous brown and black cows, still favorites today. With the help of his sons, he started a residential construction business, building homes throughout the western slope. Upon retiring, the Drive In was sold to Ed and Sue Branson. With time on his hands, he became a realtor for five additional years. Finally, he settled for a fishing pole, pontoon boat, motor home and a co-pilot, Rose. Hugh also contributed much of his time to community service. He was president of the Lion's Club, Grand Master of the Odd Fellows, American Legion member, served as president of the Collbran Chamber of Commerce, City Council Representative, and served 20 years as president of the Collbran Community Hospital Board. Hugh received the Citizen of the Year award, Lion of the Year, and received the Melvin Jones award. Although Hugh dedicated a tremendous amount of time to community services and his work, he always had time for family and mends. Family was his number one past time. People would see Rose and Hugh driving the back roads sightseeing wild game, pulled over visiting with neighbors, or camping near a lake or stream. He enjoyed teaching his family the art of fly fishing, hunting, and playing cards. His family social hours consisted of his jokes, remembering life stories, and teasing the younger generations. Visitation will be held at 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 14th at the Collbran Congregation Church. Services will begin at 11:00 a.m. Lunch will be served by the Women's Fellowship and Rebekah's at noon. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Cedar Crest Cemetery with military honors. The family requests in lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Collbran Congregational Church, Collbran, CO 81624. Arrangements are under the direction of Callahan-Edfast Mortuary.