Donna Engle Branstner

Donna E. Branstner, beloved mother, grandmother and dear friend of many passed away peacefully on May 21, 2021 at her home in Parchment MI. Formerly of Birmingham, MI. Donna was born November 14, 1929 in Elyria, Ohio. At the start of her career, she worked in Administrations for Wayne State University, Detroit. Donna had astute business acumen. She was office manager at Branstner Manufacturing Company (BRAMCO) a pioneer of radio control including the development of remote control for TVs and an early robotics innovator. Donna managed the logistics and finances for the family racing enterprise which developed, built and promoted the Indianapolis Drag Racing Nationals Champion race car Color Me Gone and other famous super stocks, trucks and race cars. Donna loved swim aerobics at the Birmingham YMCA where she became the class instructor and most recently with her friends at the Borgess Fitness Center. She was highly involved with church activities, fellowship and travel outings. Donna volunteered at Parchment Central Elementary and was Treasurer of the Parchment Gardening Club. She was strong in her faith and an inspiration to all that knew her. She loved her family who will miss her immensely. Surviving are her three children, Richard (Susan) Branstner, Robert Branstner and Amy (Brian) Sell, three grandchildren Kristin Branstner, Jessica (Aaron) Gonzalez and Audrey (Jeff) Krantz and five beloved great – grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on June 10 at Northeastern Baptist Church, 6536 East G Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49048. The funeral home has arranged for you to gift fully prepared meals to the family to assist them during this difficult time. Click here to gift meals.