Eugene P. Branz, 80, of Iron Mountain, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2008, at Manorcare Health Services, Kingsford. Gene was born on November 9, 1927, in Iron Mountain, son of the late Arcadio and Emma (Tenaglia) Branz. He grew up and attended school in Quinnesec. He married Barbara DiBiase on August 19, 1961, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Iron Mountain. Gene served in the US Army in the military police in Germany from October 7, 1954, until honorably discharged on September 27, 1954. He worked as a pipe fitter, welder and plumber for the Local Union 728 for over 45 years, retiring in 1989. He enjoyed many hobbies including; gardening, farming, traveling, cutting wood, the outdoors, and especially spending time with his family. Gene is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara; two daughters, Marie Branz, Breitung Township and Cindy Goldsworthy, Appleton, Wis.; a brother, Paul (Kathy) Branz, Iron Mountain; two sisters, Mary Corozolla, Norway, and Teresa (Joe) Schwei, Iron Mountain; two grandchildren, Samantha and Jarret; many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Gene was preceded in death by a brother, Louis. Visitation will Tuesday, February 19, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain. The funeral service will be Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Fr. Ray Valerio will officiate. Burial will be in Cemetery Park, Iron Mountain. Family and friends may leave condolences and tributes to Gene's family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com The Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, is serving the family.