Eugene Branson

1922 - 2016

Branson, Eugene 94, passed away at home with family at his bedside on November 24, 2016. He and his identical twin were born May 5, 1922 in Pleasant Hill, Illinois. Gene spent most of his childhood in Canton Missouri, graduating from Canton High School in 1940. He attended Culver-Stockton College before receiving an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. After graduating from USNA in 1946 he served for 3 years in the Navy. April 30, 1949 he married Dorothy Farmer, also of Canton Mo. Together they had six children: Beverly, Barrie (Robin) Bethanie (Gene), Barbara, Bobby (Tammy) and Ben (Rachele). They are the grandparents of 8 grandsons and 7 granddaughters; 10 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandbabies. After being recalled to active duty during the Korean War, Gene's career as an electronic engineer and civil servant spanned over a decade, including positions in Texas, San Diego and San Bernardino, CA. In 1965 Gene moved his family for the final time, accepting a position as an aerospace engineer with NASA. In addition to raising his 6 children, Gene received two Master's degrees (Systems Management and Contract and Procedure Management) from Florida Institute of Technology.Gene's avocation became building, buying and remodeling houses. He retired from NASA in 1979 and spent the next 3 years building the home to which he and Dottie retired. Besides the real estate adventure, Gene enjoyed travel, reading and being a career scholar. He was a member of the Rockledge Presbyterian Churchand enjoyed his time with NARFE (Natl Active and Retired Federal employees). Gene was a devoted husband to Dottie and they celebrated 67 years together. He cherished his children, grandchildren, greats and great-greats (33 offspring & counting!).The legacy he left those who follow and call themselves "The Branson Clan" understand by his teaching and leading examples to do your best, improve your mind, stay devoted to your family and be proud to be an American.