Thomas Joseph Branley, Sr. age 80, passed away on Friday April 22nd, 2016 at home in New London, WI.

Thomas was born in Superior, WI at St Joseph's Hospital on January 6th, 1936.

Thomas was employed at The Continental Grain Company in Superior, WI until his age of retirement. He also reported to duty in the US Navy on January 14th, 1954. His service in the Navy brought him to Spain in 1956 where he met and married Esperanza Costello Diez on Sept 19th, 1956. He returned to Superior, WI in 1957.

Thomas was very loved and had many friends. He resided in Superior, WI until the year 2000 where he settled in New London, WI until his passing. He loved collecting and selling things such as trains and guns. He enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and reading the daily paper to keep up on current events. He was the loved by many due to his gentle nature and outgoing personality. He accomplished many things in his life and was always a positive force in any lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irving Branley and Odessa Branley; and his sister, Nancy Nikstad.

Thomas is survived by his children, Linda M. Specht, Thomas Branley Jr., Patricia Branley, and Michael Branley, grandchildren, Melissa Paradeis, Marvin Krogerson, Jennifer Johnson, Melanie Jacobsen, Jason Krogerson, Corinna, Courtney, MacKenzie, Samanatha, Miranda and Jeff Branley; 12 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-granddaughter.

A gathering will be held on Friday May 6th at Down's Funeral Home, at 1617 N 19th Street, Superior, WI from 4pm-7pm. Private burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.