Harlan Branch

"Sorrow comes in great waves...but it rolls over us, and though it may almost smother us it passes and we remain." - Henry James

Harlan F. Branch “Harney”, age 85, died unexpectedly at his home in Saranac Lake, on Monday, February 20, 2017.

Born in Redford, New York on July 22, 1931, he was the son of Spencer and Stella (Delcore) Branch.

Harlan was a lifelong resident of Saranac Lake area and had worked as a welder-pipe fitter for various companies over the years including working with Earl LaValley and Betchal Corporation at the missile sites. Harlan also learned and worked on air-conditioning repair. He later worked in Albany and elsewhere until retiring in 1970. Harlan is a veteran of the United States Army serving during the Korean War from 1949 to 1953.

Harlan was a humble man; he never liked to be the center of attention. In life and now in death, he wouldn't want us to focus on him. He wouldn't want us to focus on the sadness of his death, but instead focus on the happiness in our lives. He would want us to appreciate each other and our future.

A man as humble and loving as he will always be remembered by those of us who knew him and loved him. Although we will miss him, his smile, his pranks, his love, we take consolation in the good feelings of our memories.

He always said that his grandchildren kept him young at heart. He was a great teacher to have, not only for us, but also for everybody. He was selfless and kind. He loved helping to

raise his closest grandchildren, it was his calling in life.

He was a role model, and a friend. His guidance and love will carry us through to the end of our days.

He is survived by 8 daughters, Marcia Branch, Jayne Branch, Bonnie Branch, Annie Branch, Bernice Gardner, MaryKay Branch, Angela Florence and Amy Branch, one son, J. Scott, 11 grandchildren, Tyler Fogarty, Chelsea Lorette, Seth Pickreign, Kiely Branch, Brianna Walker, Lauren Gardner, Kiera Walker, Leah Gardner, Samuel Branch, Madison Branch and Kaedyn Grant, one great grandchild, Melody Rose, two brothers Jerome “Champ” Branch and Augustine “Gus” Branch and one sister Louise Wilcox.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, two sisters Mary Branch Miller and Rose M. Glover and six brothers Roland, Richard, Marshall, Donald, Joseph, and George.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake.

At the request of Harlan, there will be no services. Friends wishing to remember Harlan F. Branch may make memorial contributions to Saranac Lake Youth Center in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.