Eric Goldbranson, Loving Husband and Father, Avid Volunteer

Submitted by Modell Funeral Home.

Eric M. Goldbranson, beloved husband of Gloria nee Finigan. Loving father of Megan, Andrew and the late Matthew. Dearest brother of Alison (Glen) Pari, Mark (Marybeth) Goldbranson and the late Gail Goldbranson. Brother-in-law of Gregory (Mary) Finigan, Gayle Finigan, Gary Finigan and Glenda (John) Betit. Uncle and great uncle of many nieces and nephews. Also, cousin and nephew to many.

Eric Michael Goldbranson was a dedicated and loving husband and father; always supportive of his children’s hopes and dreams.

He was the youngest of four children born to Kent and Vera Goldbranson and grew up in Bellwood attending grade school at Sunnyside and St. John Chrysostom. He graduated from Proviso West High School in 1981 where he participated in drama, speech and theatre. He was a dedicated thespian in high school and college passing that passion on to his children. Graduating in 1985, Eric was a communications major at Northern Illinois University. At Northern, he was a brother of Phi Sigma Kappa.

His hobbies and passion included drama, theater, music, running, serving the community and his Catholic faith. In his down time, he enjoyed a good book, especially mysteries. He loved to eat, especially his wife’s cooking. On his list of favorites – spaghetti with Italian sausage and cinnamon swirl French toast.

As an adult, Eric served his community in many ways and was an avid volunteer; if you needed a hand Eric was sure to be there. An inspiration to all. Eric was a positive light in a dark world. He was full of faith and showed his love for God by the way he loved and cared for those near and far.

He was a strong supporter of the local schools in the community. While his children attended Eisenhower Junior High School and the Hinsdale South, he served as a District 61 School Board member for 6 years. Eric was an active member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel parish serving as a Eucharistic minister, lector and a religious education teacher for 12 years. He is a First Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus in Westmont having served in various capacities. He was a Cub Scout leader for his son, Andrew’s troop and enjoyed his many trips with the scouts to Shin-Go-Beek. He volunteered as a baseball and soccer coach for Darien Youth Club over the years. He loved attending the Father/Daughter Dances with Megan and is very supportive of the University of Dayton Flyers, where Megan attends college.

He was a marathon runner and a member of the CARA Waterfall Glen running group. He completed five marathons and many other running events. His most memorable was completion of his first Chicago Marathon in 2007; the marathon where the heat was extreme; and with the support of other members of his running group he crossed the finished line; indeed one of the five proudest moments in his life which include his wedding day and the days his three children were born.

The family of Eric Goldbranson recommends donations be sent to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Religious Education and Youth Ministry programs. The religious education programs were near and dear to his heart and provided Eric and his family with many memories, wonderful friends and strengthened the family’s faith, hope and love. Donations may also be sent to The Wellness House in Hinsdale. Wellness House programs educate, support and empower participants so they will improve their physical and emotional well-being. Wellness House was a safe, therapeutic place for Eric and his family.

Funeral Saturday 9:15 a.m. from Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien, to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church Mass 10 a.m. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Visitation Friday 3-9 p.m. For funeral info: 630-852-3595 or modelldarien.com