Robert M. "Bob" Brancheau

Robert M. Brancheau, 78 of Johannesburg, died Sunday, March 12, 2023 at home, peacefully with his family.

Born in Holly, Michigan on January 10, 1945, he was the son of Leo and Mildred (Warner) Brancheau.  In 1963, Bob married Darlene Crawford and they spent 60 happy years together.

He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lewiston.  Bob could often be found serving the Lord through his church and in the community. 

Bob, known at work as “Brakeshoe,” was a conductor at Grand Trunk Railroad for 40 years.  He loved the outdoors, but his passion was his trains.  Above all, he loved spending time with his family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife, Darlene; his children, Beverly (Doane) Quick of Johannesburg, Pamela (Kevin) Finger of Florida, and Butch (Kerri) Brancheau of Johannesburg; seven grandchildren, Amber, Krystal, and Robert Speedy, Carli and Kali Finger, and Robert and Erinn Brancheau; two great granddaughters, Alexis Quick and Reagan Speedy; four step grandchildren, rinn (Mike) Fairbanks, Doane (Kelly) Quick, Gavin (Elizabeth) Quick, and Nolan Quick; nine step great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; his best friend, Tom Cox; and lifelong friend, Denny McGarry.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister; and three brothers.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM Friday, March 24, 2023, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lewiston followed by a Vigil Service at 7:00 PM.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM.  For those unable to attend, the Mass, you may attend the service via livestream at www.facebook.com/stfrancislewiston.  Interment will take place in the spring at St. Francis Cemetery in Lewiston.  Those who wish, are asked to consider memorial contributions in Bob’s memory to the church to be used for maintenance and improvements at St. Francis Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on the guestbook, below.