The Rev. Raymond M. Branstad, 92, of Vero Beach, FL died Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at his home.
The Rev. Branstad was born August 26, 1916 in New Richland, MN and moved to Vero Beach ten years ago from Brooklyn Center, MN.
He received a Bachelor of Divinity Degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, a Masters Degree in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin and Masters Degree in Education Administration at the University of Minnesota. Rev. Branstad had been pastor of congregations in Duluth, MN; Suttons Bay, MI; Eau Claire, WI; Minneapolis, MN and Mayville, ND; served as President of Bethany Lutheran College & Seminary 1970 - 1977 in Mankato, MN and for 30 years was on its Board of Regents. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Vero Beach.
Survivors include his son John Branstad of Plymouth, MN; daughters Nancy Luttman of Vero Beach, Margaret Ostman of Vero Beach, Judith Kassulker of Maple Grove, MN and Kirsten Burcham of Vero Beach; sister Avis Amundsen of Northwood, IA; twelve grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife of 43 years, Lois Bayer Branstad in 1989, a brother Floyd Branstad and a sister Bernice Long.
Services: The family will receive friends 3 PM, Saturday, April 4, 2009 at Grace Lutheran Church in Vero Beach with a Life Celebration Service beginning at 4 PM with Pastor Matthew Luttman officiating. Rev. Branstad will be transferred to the Gill Brothers Funeral Home in New Hope, MN for final services and interment at Center Lutheran Church Cemetery in Lake Mills, IA.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Grace Lutheran Memorial Fund, 1150 41st Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach, Florida. Condolences may be sent through www.seawindsfh.com/obit.php