George Branstine, of Brighton, passed away on July 18, 2023, at the age of 93. George was born in Stamford, Nebraska, the second youngest of seven children born to Guy Jacob and Evanda Belle (Reed) in 1930. The family moved to Olive, near Fair Grove, where George grew up. He was married to Juanita Gourley in 1950 and had two children, Ronnie and Kenneth. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita; son, Kenneth; parents, Guy Jacob and Evanda Belle; sisters, Doris Brake, Joyce Ellis, and Ruth Tracy; and brothers, Lloyd, Donald, and Paul Branstine.

George retired from the Burlington Northern-Sante Fe Railroad in 1992. He and Juanita traveled the US by RV and visited all continental 48 states including Alaska and Canada. He crossed mountains, weathered storms, and fished in mountain lakes and Alaskan rivers. He was a railroader, a carpenter, a fisherman, and a farmer, as well as a beloved grandfather. He spent many happy hours over the years with family and friends around the dinner table, laughing and playing pitch or dominoes or building memories in his workshop.

George is survived by his son, Ronnie of Brighton; granddaughter, Shelly Zarr (husband Bill); grandson, Eric Branstine (wife Lacey); and granddaughters, Teri (husband James), Anita, and Kristy as well as great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He spent his last few months  at Ash Grove Healthcare Facility in Ash Grove, Missouri where he was surrounded by new friends and supportive, caring staff that treated him like family. George will be remembered for his bright smile that always persevered, even through his darkest of days. His life will be best remembered as well lived and he was well-loved by those who knew him best.