Kenneth E. Branson

MARION-Kenneth E. Branson, 73, of Marion passed away at 10:20 AM, Monday, February 7, 2005 at Fountains Nursing Home in Marion. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, February 10, 2005 at the Blue Funeral Home in Marion with Reverend Floyd Dorris officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, February 9, 2005 at the funeral home. Burial will be at East Lawn Memorial Gardens, Energy. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society; envelopes are available at the funeral home or may be sent c/o Blue Funeral Home, PO Box 411, Marion, IL 62959. Mr. Branson was born on May 8, 1931 in Williamson County, Illinois to Oliver and Luella (Jackson) Branson. He married Katy King on December 24, 1951 in Marion; she preceded him in death on September 12, 2000. Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Patti and Mark Kuehnel of Marble Hill, Missouri; son and daughter-in-law, Donnie and Rhonda Branson of Creal Springs; daughter, Leanna Branson of Marion; son and daughter-in-law, Kenny and Nickie Branson of Marion; grandchildren, Keenan Adams, Garrett Adams, Kara Branson, Courtney Branson, Collin Branson and Katelynn Branson; great grandchildren, Samari Adams; brother and sister-in-law, James and Karen Branson of Belton, Missouri; and sisters and brother-in-law, Alice Stagner of Sugerland, Texas and Mary Jane and Butch Shoopman of Springfield. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and brother, Bill Branson. Mr. Branson with his wife, formerly owned and operated Branson Marathon and Sunoco Service Station for over 30 years. He was lifetime member of the Marion VFW Post 1301 and a 32nd degree Mason with Marion Masonic Lodge 89AF & AM. He served his country in the United States Army. He was of Baptist faith.