Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Warren Branson

As a youngster, he was a competitor on the YMCA swim team of Green Bay and a Cub Scout where he learned knot-tying, a skill that helped him throughout his lifetime in the marine industry. He sailed with his family as a youngster. After his father died in 1969, Jeff and his brothers moved to Escanaba when their mother married Dale Vinette in 1971.

Jeff was very active in AA for over 40 years, and it was in AA that he found his Higher Power. He dedicated himself as a sponsor to many others in the program.

Over the years, Jeff was associated with the Bark River Lions Club, served as a Big Brother in the Escanaba program, and was a regular blood donor. He was known as the Branson/Vinette family singer at holiday celebrations. He loved spending Sunday afternoons with his dog Max driving down country back roads. Max was Jeff’s constant companion at home and at work.

For over 30 years, Jeff worked as a very skilled heavy equipment operator alongside his brother Dan at Vinette Boat Works. He was also a skilled metal fabricator and welder.

Jeff is survived by his mother Ruthie Vinette; his brothers, Chris (April) Branson and Dan (Roxanne) Branson; his stepbrother, Tom (Maggie) Vinette and stepsisters, Joan Vinette and Ann (Tim) Rutkoske; his Branson nieces and nephews Dane, Molly, Abby, and his Vinette nieces and nephews Kimmarie, Maurine, Cayte, Ann, Kendra, David, Emily, and Claire. He leaves behind his beloved dog Max.

He was preceded in death by his father Edgar Branson and his stepfather Dale Vinette.

Jeff will be remembered for saying “Oh well, whatever. . .” He will be missed by his family and many friends.

A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church at 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 28, with Rev. Terry Frankenstein presiding. Following the service, there will be a time for fellowship and sharing of memories of Jeff. The family requests that everyone wear a mask at the church.

The Allo Coolman Funeral Homes are assisting the Branson family. Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.